What is the purpose of periodic blow-downs in water cooling towers?

Periodic blow-downs in water cooling towers serve the crucial function of controlling scaling. As water evaporates in the cooling tower, it concentrates dissolved solids, including minerals that can cause scaling on the equipment and within the system. These scales can form hard deposits that negatively impact heat transfer efficiency and can also lead to corrosion or damage to internal components.

By performing blow-downs, a portion of the concentrated water is removed from the system, thereby lowering the concentration of these dissolved solids. This process helps to maintain water quality, ensuring that the cooling system operates efficiently and effectively over time. Regular blow-downs can thus extend the life of the equipment and lower maintenance costs associated with scaling and deposits.