Thermal Performance of Spray-Canal Cooling Systems

Spray canals are alternatives to cooling ponds and towers for steam-electric power plants. The literature of thermal modeling is reviewed. A rational analysis supported by field experiments at two large central power stations has led to correlation of local spray cooling performance in terms of two dimensionless groups, one of which is dependent mainly on the type of spray module, and the other is a heating-humidification interference-allowance parameter which depends on wind speed and direction and the type and placement of modules. The analysis is incorporated into a systems performance model for arbitrary canal layout. Examples presented are the circular, race-track and straight double-back canals. Implications for design are discussed.