fwctCoP Part 1 PDF

Code of Practice for Fresh Water Cooling Towers
Part 1: Design, Installation and Commissioning
CODE OF PRACTICE
FOR
FRESH WATER COOLING TOWERS
PART 1: DESIGN, INSTALLATION AND

COMMISSIONING
2016 EDITION
(DEC 2016)
Electrical and Mechanical Services Department
The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
2016 Edition i
Foreword
This Code of Practice was prepared to promote the proper use of fresh water cooling
towers with guidelines for cooling tower design, installation, testing, commissioning,
operation and maintenance in order to meet the energy efficiency objective with due
consideration of the environment and health issues. It was developed by the Task Force
on Code of Practice for Fresh Water Cooling Towers.
Part 1 of this series of Code of Practice for Fresh Water Cooling Towers (previously known
as Code of Practice for Water-cooled Air Conditioning Systems) provides details on the
design, installation and commissioning of cooling towers. It should be read in conjunction
and made cross-reference with the followings:
Part 2 – Operation and Maintenance; and
Part 3 – Water Treatment Methods.
2016 Edition ii
Contents
Page
Foreword ii
Definitions v
1. Introduction 1
1.1 Scope 1
1.2 Objectives 1
1.3 Applications 1
2. Cooling Tower Types and Cooling Tower Systems 3

2.1 General 3
2.2 Cooling Tower Types 3
2.3 Cooling Tower System 9
3. Cooling Tower Construction and Installation Requirements 10

3.1 Cooling Tower Shell 10
3.2 Intake Louvre 10
3.3 Fill 11
3.4 Fan and Fan Motor 11
3.5 Water Basin 11
3.6 Drift Eliminator 12
3.7 Water Distribution Pipework 13
3.8 Water Circulation Pipework 13
3.9 Water Sampling Point 13
3.10 Deflector 14
3.11 Silencer 14
3.12 Plume Abatement Measures 14
3.13 Access Opening 14
3.14 Cooling Tower Structure 14
3.15 Ladder and Handrail 15
3.16 Installation Access 15
3.17 Cooling Tower Supporting Framework 15
4. Cooling Tower Installed Location 16
2016 Edition iii

4.1 General 16
4.2 Cooling Towers installed on Building Roof 18
4.3 Cooling Towers installed on Podium Roof 18
4.4 Cooling Towers installed indoors with Vertical Discharge 19
through Roof or Horizontal Discharge through Side Wall
4.5 Cooling Towers installed at Other Locations 19
4.6 Minimum Separation between Cooling Towers 19
4.7 Minimum Separation from Physical Barrier 19
4.8 Installation Location at a Composite Building (Residential and 20
Commercial)
4.9 Installed Location not fulfilling the Required Minimum 20
Separation
5. Cooling Tower Water and Bleed-off Water Control 21

5.1 Cooling Water Quality Control 21
5.2 Bleed-off Control and Reuse of Bleed-off Water 21
6. Notices and Labels 23
7. Risk Management of a Cooling Tower System 24

7.1 General 24
7.2 Risk Management Plan 24
8. Testing and Commissioning of Cooling Tower Systems 26

8.1 Testing and Commissioning 26
8.2 Occupational Safety and Health 26
9. Design and Commissioning Records 27
10. Qualification of a System Designer 28
11. Reference Information 29
Appendices
Appendix 1A – Typical Schematic Diagram of Fresh Water Cooling Towers 30
Condensing Water Circuit
Appendix 1B – Guidance Notes on Minimum Separation Requirements for 31
Cooling Towers
Appendix 1C – Samples of Notices and Labels for Cooling Tower System 38
Appendix 1D – A Standard Risk Management Plan for Fresh Water Cooling 39
Tower System
Appendix 1E – A Sample Checklist for Minimum Testing and Commissioning 42
Procedures of Fresh Water Cooling Tower System
Appendix 1F – A Recommended List of Personal Protective Equipment 44
2016 Edition iv
Definitions
Biocide : A physical or chemical agent that kills bacteria and other

microorganisms.
Biodispersant : A chemical compound added to the water inside cooling tower

system, to penetrate and break down any biofilm that may be
present on the wetted surfaces of the cooling tower system.
Biofilm : A surface layer of microorganisms. It is usually combined with

particulate matter, scale and products of corrosion.
Bleed off : The removal of water from a cooling tower system to maintain the
(blowdown) concentration of total dissolved solids and suspended solids in an
acceptable level.
Commissioning : A systematic and progressive process of putting the components

of a system into operation, calibrating instruments and controls,
and then making adjustments and checks to ensure that the total
system is providing satisfactory operation and performance.
Cooling tower : A device for lowering the temperature of water by evaporative

cooling in which ambient air is in contact with falling water,
thereby exchanging heat. The term also includes those devices
that incorporate a water-refrigerant or water-water heat exchanger
(evaporative condenser or closed-circuit cooling tower).
Cooling tower : A heat exchange system comprising a heat-generating plant (chiller

system condenser or heat exchanger), a heat-rejection plant (cooling tower
or evaporative condenser) and interconnecting water recirculating
pipework and associated pumps, valves and controls.
Corrosion : Small strip of metal, usually placed into water circuits so that they
coupon can easily be removed, to enable the corrosion characteristics of the
water to be assessed.
2016 Edition v
Corrosion : Chemical which protects metals by: (a) passivating the metal by
inhibitor the promotion of a thin metal oxide film (anodic inhibitors); or
(b) physically forming a thin barrier film by controlled deposition
(cathodic inhibitors).
Cycle of : The ratio between the concentration of dissolved solids in the

concentration cooling water and the concentration of dissolved solids in the
make-up water as a result of the evaporation that takes place in
the cooling tower
Dead leg : Water pipe with length equal to or larger than one diameter of the
pipe, ending at a fitting through which water flows only when the
fitting is opened. These extra areas of the cooling tower system
contain stagnant water, which can cause building up of bacteria
and sludge in recirculating system, and can then contaminate the
system.
Decontamination : A process used when a cooling tower system is found with a level
of bacterial count which involves a series of actions to disinfect,
clean and re-disinfect the cooling tower system.
Disinfection : Preventive maintenance action of applying a treatment to a system,

in conjunction with system cleaning, in order to reduce the general
concentration of infectious agents.
Dispersant : Reagent usually added with other treatment chemicals to prevent

accumulation of sludge.
Drift eliminator : A grid or grille-like arrangement of physical barriers located before

the cooling tower exhaust designed to minimise the drift emanating
from a tower.
Drift : Water lost from the cooling tower as liquid droplets or aerosols
entrained in the exhaust air, excluding condensation.
2016 Edition vi
Exhaust air outlet : A termination of a mechanical or natural ventilation system

that allows air removed from a space and discharged outside
the building. The exhaust air outlets, which are crucial in the
consideration of separation distance with the cooling tower, are
exhausts from kitchens, toilets, emergency generator (flue gas),
carpark ventilation, fume cupboard and refuse collection room, and
any exhaust that contains contaminants or nutrients for microbial
growth in cooling water.
Fan : A rotary machine which propels air continuously. This is used for
moving air in a mechanical draft tower. The fan may be of induced
draft or forced draft application.
Fill (packing) : Material placed within cooling tower to increase heat and mass
transfer between the circulating water and the air flowing through
the tower.
Filtration : The process of separating solids from a liquid by means of a porous

substance through which only the liquid passes.
Fouling : Organic growth or other deposits on heat transfer surfaces causing

loss in efficiency.
Heterotrophic : The number of viable units of bacteria per millilitre of water sample.
colony count It is also known as Total Bacteria Count (TBC), Total Plate Count or
(HCC) Viable Bacteria Count.
Legionnaires’ : It is a type of bacterial pneumonia caused by legionella.

disease
Medical and : Hospitals, general clinics, specialist clinics; community support

health care facilities for the elderly, such as residential elderly homes, social
premises centre for the elderly; and establishments providing health care and
services for the sick and infirm.
Non-oxidising : A non-oxidising biocide is one that functions by mechanisms other

biocide than oxidation, including interference with cell metabolism and
structure.
2016 Edition vii

Operable : An operable window is a window that has moving parts, such as

window hinges, and can be opened. If a window is permanently locked
or required special tools to be opened, that window would not be
considered as an operable window when examining the separation
distance.
Outdoor air : A termination of a mechanical or natural ventilation system that

intake allows ambient air entering a building. The outdoor air intakes,
which are crucial in the consideration of separation distance with
the cooling tower, are fresh air intake for the air conditioning
system of a building, and any air intake that draws outdoor air into
the building.
Oxidising biocide : Agents capable of oxidising organic matter, e.g. cell material
enzymes or proteins which are associated with microbiological
populations resulting in death of the micro-organisms.
Passivation : The formation of a protective film, visible or invisible, which

controls corrosion.
Plume : The visible discharge of air and moisture from a cooling tower due
to condensation. It is usually most visible in cool and humid days
when water vapour emanates from the cooling tower exhaust.
Public accessible : An area that is accessible by the public or building occupants

area other than building management/maintenance staff. Some of
the examples are pedestrian thoroughfare/ footpath, place where
people gather together for activities, accessible green roof/garden.
Restricted area with proper access control which is only accessible
by building management/maintenance staff is not considered as a
public accessible area.
Podium Roof : Roof of the lower part of a building.
Scale : A crystalline deposit that can form on surfaces or pipework within

the cooling tower system due to building up of minerals (usually
calcium carbonate).
2016 Edition viii

Scale inhibitor : Chemicals used to control scale. They function by holding up

the precipitation process and/or distorting the crystal shape, thus
preventing the build-up of a hard adherent scale.
Sludge : A building up of sediment that can be found in the basin or

pipework of a cooling tower system.
Slug dosing/ : The process of adding in a single dose a much higher amount of
Shock dosing chemical biocide than is normally applied, with the intention of
rapidly raising the concentration of biocide in the water to a level
expected to kill most of the organisms in the water.
Spray nozzle : A device used in an open distribution system to break up the flow
of the circulating water into droplets, and effect uniform spreading
of the water over the wetted area of the tower.
Stagnant water : Pockets of motionless water within the cooling tower system that
can allow microorganisms to grow.
Temporary shut- : Cooling tower temporarily shut-down is the entire/part of the

down system not in function and isolated from the main water-cooled
condenser/heat exchanger to avoid contamination. Standby
unit(s) with cooling water running once a week is not defined as
temporary shut-down.
Total legionella : The number of legionella colony-forming units (CFU’s) found in one
count millilitre of the water sample.
2016 Edition ix
1. Introduction
1.1 Scope
This Part of the Code of Practice specifies the minimum requirements and good practices
for the design, installation and commissioning of cooling tower systems. This outlines
the prescriptive requirements to minimise health risk posing to the public by using
cooling towers, and to maximise the system operating performance and reasonable
energy efficiency in both design and construction stages. Emphasis has been put on the
followings:
a) System design and construction;
b) Minimisation of water loss;
c) Installed location of towers; and
d) System commissioning.
1.2 Objectives
This Part of the Code of Practice aims at providing technical guidelines to every party
involved in the design, installation and commissioning of cooling tower system so as to
achieve the following objectives:
a) A
ssure the public health and safety by preventing any potential risk associated with
cooling towers system;
b) A
chieve better/maintain energy efficiency and operational performance of cooling
tower system;
c) M
inimise nuisances caused by cooling tower system to the public;
d) Prevent pollution and misuse of water;
e) A
ssure occupational safety and health of the staff concerned.
1.3 Applications
1.3.1 This Code of Practice is intended for use by personnel who are responsible
for the design, installation and commissioning of cooling tower systems, etc.
It should be applied to the newly installed systems, as well as the addition,
alteration and improvement work of the existing systems.
2016 Edition 1
1.3.2 This Code of Practice should be read in conjunction with any additional
recommendations provided by suppliers/ manufacturers of the water treatment
chemicals/ cooling tower equipment and any relevant specification and
applicable ordinances and regulations in Hong Kong.
1.3.3 EMSD reserves the right to interpret the contents of this Code of Practice.
1.3.4 In case of conflict between the requirements of this Code of Practice and any
other requirements, the following order of priority should apply:
a) All currently in force Legislation and other Subsidiary Legislation.
b) The relevant Codes of Practice and Technical Standards.
c) This Code of Practice.
2016 Edition 2
2. Cooling Tower Types and Cooling Tower Systems
2.1 General
Proper design of cooling tower system helps in reducing operational and maintenance
problems as well as environmental impacts arising from system operation.
2.2 Cooling Tower Types

2.2.1 In general, cooling towers are classified based on their construction and air
movement through the cooling tower in relation to the falling water droplets.
Both natural draft and mechanical draft cooling towers are available in the
market. Natural draft cooling towers do not use a mechanical air-moving device
and all air movement through the cooling towers relies on the wind and stack
effects. Mechanical draft cooling towers make use of mechanical fans to force
ambient air flowing through the cooling towers. Evaporative condenser is heat
rejection equipment which the working principle is similar to cooling tower, and
should follow the requirements of this Code of Practice
2.2.2 Both cooling tower and evaporative condenser use water as heat transfer
medium to remove heat from the system. There are two basic types of
evaporative cooling towers, namely direct-contact cooling tower and indirect
contact cooling tower.
Cooling Tower
Direct-contact Indirect-contact
Cooling Tower Cooling Tower
Figure 1.1: Classification of cooling tower
2016 Edition 3
2.2.3 Direct-contact cooling tower

Direct-contact cooling tower (also known as open-circuit cooling tower) exposes
water directly to the cooling atmosphere, hence transfers the heat from the
cooling water directly to the air. Direct contact cooling towers can be further
classified by their components’ configuration and air draft mechanisms. In
general, there are four different types (Figure. 1.2):
Cooling Tower
Induced Draft Induced Draft Forced Draft Forced Draft

Counter Flow Cross Flow Counter Flow Cross Flow
Figure 1.2: Types of direct-contact cooling towers
a) Induced Draft Counter Flow Type

Fan is installed inside cooling tower, which induces air to flow through louvre
openings, pass through the fill and discharge through the fan. The fan pulls
air up through the tower in the opposite direction to which the water is
falling. Water is usually delivered by means of fixed or rotating spray arms.
Drift eliminator is usually placed above the sprays to prevent loss of water
through drift. This type of cooling tower can handle large heat rejection loads.
Therefore, it is suitable for larger cell size and fan size. Larger fan size operating
at low speed may result in greater efficiency and consequently lower power and
sound levels. Typical configuration of induced draft counter flow cooling tower
is shown in Figure 1.3.
2016 Edition 4
Figure 1.3: Typical configuration of induced draft counter flow cooling tower
b) Induced Draft Cross Flow Type

Fan is used to create an induced air flow into the cooling tower. Air is drawn
or induced across the water falling from the top of the tower to the basin. This
tends to give a more evenly distributed air flow through the fill, when compared
with the forced draft design. Drift eliminator is installed vertically along the fill.
Figure 1.4 illustrates the typical configuration of induced draft cross flow cooling
tower.
Figure 1.4: Typical configuration of induced draft cross flow cooling tower
2016 Edition 5
c) Forced Draft Counter Flow Type

Fan is generally mounted at low level (inlet air side) of the cooling tower so that
air can be forced upward through the fill. Axial or centrifugal fans can be used
depending on external static pressure requirement and noise limit. Water sprays
from the top of the cooling tower, which is in opposite direction to the air flow.
Fan installed at low level tends to reduce the overall height of the tower and
generate low vibration due to rotating components being located near the base
of the tower. Fan unit is placed in a comparatively dry air stream; this reduces
the problem of moisture condensing in the motor or gearbox. Figure 1.5 shows
the typical configuration of forced draft counter flow cooling tower.
Figure 1.5: Typical configuration of forced draft counter flow cooling tower
d) Forced Draft Cross Flow Type

Fan is mounted on one side and air is forced through the fill horizontally with
drift eliminators on the outlet side. This type of cooling tower is suitable for
restricted headroom and low heat rejection capacity. Typical configuration of
forced draft cross flow cooling tower is shown in Figure 1.6.
Figure 1.6: Typical configuration of forced draft cross flow cooling tower
2016 Edition 6
2.2.4 Indirect-contact cooling tower

Indirect-contact cooling tower (also known as closed-circuit cooling tower)
involves indirect contact between the fluid being cooled and the atmosphere,
essentially combining a heat exchanger and cooling tower into one relatively
compact device. The indirect-contact cooling towers, according to their fan
configurations, can also be classified as induced draft counter flow, induced
draft cross flow, forced draft counter flow and forced draft cross flow cooling
towers. There are two separate fluid circuits in an indirect contact cooling
tower. An external circuit allows water exposed to the atmosphere, while
internal circuit consists of the tubes of coil bundle carrying fluid to be cooled.
Heat flows from the internal fluid circuit, through the tube walls of the coil to
external water circuit. Heat is then transferred to the atmospheric air. Figure 1.7
shows the typical configuration of closed-circuit cooling tower with no fill
material.
Figure 1.7: Typical configuration of closed-circuit cooling tower with no fill

material
2016 Edition 7
Coil Shed Cooling Tower

Coil shed cooling tower is indirect contact cooling tower which consist of
isolated coil section located at the bottom. There is fill section above the coil
section which air stream is directed only through the fill region. According to
fan configurations, both counter-flow and cross-flow types are available. Figure
1.8 shows the typical configuration of coil shed cooling tower.
Figure 1.8: Typical configuration of coil shed cooling tower
2.2.5 Evaporative Condenser

The working principle of evaporative condenser is very similar to an indirect
contact cooling tower, except that the refrigerant entering the tubes is in vapour
state, which is subsequently cooled by the falling water. Vapour is condensed to
liquid state by releasing heat to the falling water. Figure 1.9 illustrates the typical
configuration of evaporative condenser
Figure 1.9: Typical configuration of evaporative condenser
2016 Edition 8
2.3 Cooling Tower System

2.3.1 A typical cooling tower system consists of cooling tower, chiller condenser/
heat exchanger, water pump, chemical water treatment equipment, physical
water treatment equipment, make-up water tank, bleed-off and drainage,
pipework and fittings, metering devices, etc. Major components in the system
is elaborated in the following sections. A typical schematic drawing is shown in
Appendix 1A.
2.3.2 Fresh water from the mains is commonly adopted by the cooling tower system.
2.3.3 Water pump(s) is installed for circulating water between the cooling tower and
the condenser. Equalising pipe should be provided for multiple cooling tower
installation to prevent overflow of cooling tower water from water basins.
2.3.4 Make-up water is required to compensate water losses due to evaporation, drift
and bleed-off. Make-up water tank should be located at a level higher than
the water inlet of cooling tower; otherwise, booster pump is required to provide
sufficient static head for make-up water.
2.3.5 Water treatment systems, whether chemical or physical, are essential for
a cooling tower system. They should be applied to tackle the problems of
corrosion, scale and micro-organism growth, hence to enhance cooling tower
water quality. Details should refer to the Code of Practice for Fresh Water
Cooling Towers: Part 3 – Water Treatment Methods.
2.3.6 Water meters should be installed to record the total water consumption and the
bleed-off volume of cooling tower. The make-up water consumption profile is a
reasonable indicator to monitor any abnormal operational conditions of cooling
tower.
2.3.7 Energy meter should be installed to measure the energy consumption by the
entire cooling tower system. This gives information to the system owner and
property manager regarding the monthly cumulative energy consumption, which
is used to compare the trend and identify any abnormal operation.
2.3.8 Overflow pipe should be connected to the bleed-off water tank with a separate
warning pipe being discharged into a conspicuous position.
2.3.9 Isolation valves should be installed for system with multiple cooling towers to
facilitate cleansing and disinfection of individual cooling tower.
2.3.10 Provision of cleansing water point near cooling tower is recommended to
facilitate cleaning of cooling tower.
2016 Edition 9
3. Cooling Tower Construction and Installation Requirements
3.1 Cooling Tower Shell

3.1.1 Cooling tower shell is the external jacket of a cooling tower that attaches to the
cooling tower framework. It is the structural component to ensure rigidity and
integrity of cooling tower.
3.1.2 Cooling tower shell should be robust and constructed from non-corrosive and
rigid material. It should not foster microbiological growth nor react adversely
with water treatment, cleaning, disinfection and decontamination chemicals.
The shell should withstand cooling tower structural load from internal
components, including fill, framework, water basin as well as fan operation
load, wind load and water pressure load. Also, it should structurally support the
attachment of maintenance platform and ladders, as well as maintenance staff
load.
3.1.3 Since cooling tower is usually installed outdoor, the casing should be weather
resistant and opaque to sunlight. If cooling tower is installed indoor, fire-
retardant material complying with the local fire services requirements should be
used. All materials in the cooling tower system should be compatible to each
other and should not deteriorate rapidly in a warm and moist environment.
3.1.4 Where feasible, cooling tower should be constructed, assembled and carried out
performance test in the factory before delivered to site.
3.2 Intake Louvre

3.2.1 Intake louvre forms part of the cooling tower shell, which is used to retain
circulating water and equalise air flow into the cooling tower.
3.2.2 Intake louvre should be designed to prevent water from spilling out and to
obstruct direct sunlight from entering the cooling tower basin to minimise the
growth of algae. For cross flow type cooling towers, two pass superior air inlet
louvre screens constructed with corrosion free material can further eliminate
water splashing out. Similar to cooling tower shell, material used should be
weather resistant and opaque to sunlight. Fire-retardant material complying
with the local fire services regulations should be used for cooling towers
installed indoor.
3.2.3 In order to attenuate the noise emitted from cooling tower, acoustic louvres can
be installed where necessary.
2016 Edition 10
3.3 Fill
3.3.1 Fill is a major component in cooling tower to enhance heat and mass transfer
and should be designed to provide maximum surface area for heat transfer
process as the efficiency of cooling tower depends on the contact surface
arrangement and contact time between air and water.
3.3.2 Fill must promote air-water contact while imposing the least possible restriction
to air flow. Material used for fill should be durable, inert to chemical attack and
fire-retardant. Fills should also be designed to facilitate cleaning and do not
support bacteria growth.
3.4 Fan and Fan Motor

3.4.1 Fan is used to force or to draw air to pass through the tower with an electric
motor as the drive. Either axial fan or centrifugal fan can be used in cooling
tower depending on the system configuration and other technical requirements.
3.4.2 Cooling tower fan should have sufficient static pressure to encounter the internal
static pressure and additional pressure drop due to silencer or deflector.
3.4.3 Fan blades should be set to the same pitch to avoid unbalanced aerodynamic
forces. Since fan is operated in moisture-laden atmosphere, all materials should
be corrosion resistant. If gearbox is equipped for the fan, it should also be
waterproof to prevent the incursion of cooling water.
3.4.4 Fan motor should be of water-proof type and operate under high humidity
condition. Two-speed motor or Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Motor is
recommended to allow cooling tower fan speed to be varied in responding to
different heat rejection load. Also, motor insulation must withstand thermal
aging, moisture, expansion and contraction stresses, electrical stress, mechanical
vibration and shock.
3.5 Water Basin

3.5.1 Water basin is located at the bottom of cooling tower to collect all cooled water
from the tower; therefore, it is in contact with water all the times once the
cooling tower is in operation.
3.5.2 In order to prevent accumulation of dirt and particulates, the basin must be
smooth, without dirt trapping pattern, accessible, cleanable, provided with
adequate drain facilities and screening equipment. Materials used for basin
should be non-corrosive, rigid and easy to clean.
3.5.3 Basin should be watertight and has adequate fall to allow water flowing to the
drain point. Drainage outlet size depends on capacity of cooling tower, but
should not be less than 50 mm of internal diameter, and should be provided at
the lowest point of the basin to facilitate complete drain.
2016 Edition 11
3.5.4 Basin should have sufficient water depth of at least two velocity head measured
above the top level of water outlet in order to prevent vortex forming at the
water outlet and inducing excessive quantities of air. Alternatively, anti-vortex
plate, sparge pipe or large diameter outlet may be used to reduce velocity below
the free surface.
3.5.5 Screen should be installed at the bottom level of the sump to filter large
impurities, such as leaves, so as to prevent blockage of the pump. Installation
of side-stream filtration is a good practice to allow cleaning during continuous
operation.
3.5.6 Condenser water pipework above the level of the basin should be kept to a
minimum to avoid air ingress and loss of water when system is temporarily shut
down.
3.6 Drift Eliminator

3.6.1 Drift eliminator removes entrained water from the discharged air by allowing air
to have sudden changes in direction. The resulting centrifugal force separates
the water droplets from the air, lets the water droplets attach to the eliminator
surface and allows them to return to the cooling tower basin.
3.6.2 Efficiency of drift eliminator depends on the number of directional airflow
changes, spacing between the blade surface, angle of directional change
and the capability of drift eliminator blade to return the collected water to a
quiescent area of the plenum. Drift eliminators can be characterised by their
shapes and configuration. Common types of drift eliminators include cellular
(honeycomb), herringbone (blade-type) and waveform.
3.6.3 Drift eliminator should be provided and installed in each cooling tower to
facilitate ease of inspection, cleaning and maintenance. It should be extended
across the air stream without air bypass. Drift eliminator should be made
from materials with good corrosion resistance. It should be durable and can
withstand cleaning by water jet.
3.6.4 Drift eliminator should be effective at the air velocity prevailing when the cooling
tower is in operation. Attention should be paid to ensure drift eliminator is well
seated and fixed closely against one another with no gaps where the air stream
can bypass the baffle.
3.6.5 Drift emission of the drift eliminator installed in cooling tower should not exceed
0.005% of the maximum design water circulation rate through the cooling
tower. Drift emission test should be carried out under design maximum air flow
and maximum water flow conditions of the drift eliminator being tested. A test
certificate or supporting documents, which clearly states the test method and
the testing conditions, should be provided to prove the performance of the drift
eliminator under the specified testing conditions.
2016 Edition 12
3.6.6 The drift loss performance of the drift eliminator should remain at its design
level within its life cycle.
3.7 Water Distribution Pipework

3.7.1 Gravity-flow distribution and pressure-type system are two common water
distribution systems used inside cooling tower. Gravity-flow distribution consists
of distribution plate with closely and evenly separated orifices. Water is turned
into small droplets when flowing through the orifices and distributes to the
fill. Pressure-type system consists of pipes and spray nozzles, which generate a
water spray pattern to allow water spray evenly passing over the fill.
3.7.2 In order to prevent formation of algae due to direct sunlight, cooling tower
adopting water distribution system should be covered by ultra-violet resistant
materials. Materials used for pipes, spray nozzles and distribute plates should be
rigid, corrosion resistant and do not proliferate bacteria growth.
3.8 Water Circulation Pipework

3.8.1 Cooling tower water circulation system pipework should be designed to avoid
dead-leg and stagnant corners. Simple pipework design should be adopted. If
the installation involves more than one cooling tower, balance pipe between the
cooling towers should be provided.
3.8.2 If the existence of dead-leg cannot be avoided, mitigation measures for dead
leg should be provided, such as installation of manual/automatic drain valve for
periodic drain off.
3.8.3 Provision of recirculating pump controlled by a timer to circulate water through
the system periodically (at least once a week) is recommended when cooling
towers are temporary not in use. Purge valve installed at end of pipe riser can
avoid stagnant water as well.
3.8.4 Drain pipe with manual/automatic on/off valve should be provided to each
cooling tower for routine cleaning and emergency decontamination.
3.9 Water Sampling Point

3.9.1 In order to facilitate water sampling, sampling taps should be provided at the
cooling tower system. One sampling tap, for collecting water samples of cooling
water, should be fitted at the pipework where the warmed water enters the
cooling towers. Another sampling tap should be installed at the system for
collecting water samples of bleed-off water.
3.9.2 The pipework of the sampling tap should not be excessively long and should be
positioned as close to the main pipe as possible so as to avoid the problem of
dead leg.
2016 Edition 13
3.9.3 Water sampling tap can also be located at the cooling water return line, but not
adjacent to make-up water inlets or dosing points.
3.10 Deflector
Deflector is to divert exhaust air to a specific direction. It is recommended to install
deflector on cooling tower located in the area, where the exhaust from cooling tower may
directly affect the adjacent air intakes and openings, creating a short-circuit problem of
cooling tower air flow or causing nuisance to nearby sensitive receivers.
3.11 Silencer
Silencer should be provided if the noise emitted during operation of cooling tower
exceeds the limit stated in the Noise Control Ordinance and Technical Memorandum
for the Assessment of Noise from Places other than Domestic Premises, Public Places or
Construction Sites issued by the Environmental Protection Department.
3.12 Plume Abatement Measures

Plume abatement measures should be adopted in the cooling tower to minimise the
plume caused by the condensation of the discharged air from cooling tower if the plume
is considered as nuisance to the surroundings.
Plume abatement measures may be provided by:
(i) Installing heat recovery type heating coil;
(ii) Allowing extra heat rejection capacity of cooling tower system to operate the cooling
tower system in partial-load condition; or
(iii) Performing load sharing among cooling towers, etc.
3.13 Access Opening

Access door with minimum dimensions of 600mm (width) × 1 000mm (height) is
recommended for cooling tower to facilitate inspection and maintenance of inner part
of the tower. If no access door is provided due to tower construction constraints, easy
dismantle of cooling tower shell should be allowed for maintenance work.
3.14 Cooling Tower Structure

The structure of cooling tower must accommodate dead loads imposed by the weight of
cooling tower and circulating water, as well as wind load and maintenance load. It must
maintain its integrity throughout a variety of external atmospheric conditions. Overall
cooling tower weight should be taken into account in the design of the building structure.
2016 Edition 14
3.15 Ladder and Handrail

Ladder and handrail should be provided to facilitate routine cleaning, maintenance
and inspection. Cooling tower should be equipped with maintenance platform with
toe board, ladders and permanently fixed access to the level for carrying out normal
maintenance. Sufficient safety provision is required if maintenance work is potentially to
be carried out at high level.
3.16 Installation Access

Cooling tower system should be designed to allow easy and safe access for routine
cleaning, water sampling, inspection and maintenance.
3.17 Cooling Tower Supporting Framework

The supporting frame for cooling tower and similar installations are building works subject
to compliance with Buildings Ordinance, and prior approval and consent must be obtained
for construction. The frame should not affect lighting and ventilation and not to project
over streets. Authorized Person should submit plans for approval and consent application
prior to the commencement of the works. Upon completion, the Authorized Person is
required to certify the works are completed in accordance with the plans approved by the
Building Authority and the works are structurally safe.
The supporting plinth of cooling tower should refer to manufacturers’ recommendation in
order to prevent deformation due to incorrect plant load.
2016 Edition 15
4. Cooling Tower Installed Location
4.1 General
4.1.1 The cooling tower should be installed at an optimum location to minimise any
nuisance causing to nearby occupants. The works of cooling towers shall be in
full compliance with the Buildings Ordinance.
4.1.2 Any cooling tower should not be placed to protrude beyond the boundary of
the lot.
4.1.3 Cooling tower should not affect the floor loading, natural lighting and
ventilation, escape access to alternate staircases and be of no contravention of
the Buildings Ordinance.
4.1.4 Minimum Separation Requirements
(a)
Horizontal Separation Distance
The minimum horizontal separation measured from the cooling tower exhaust
and cooling tower intake to the nearest critical outdoor air intake, exhaust air
outlet, operable window and public accessible area on its own building and
adjacent buildings should comply with the horizontal separation requirements as
shown in Table 1.1. Illustration of horizontal separation measurement could be
referred to Appendix 1B - Figure B1 & Figure B2.
Table 1.1: Minimum horizontal separation distance from cooling towers
Horizontal Separation Distance

Critical Outdoor Critical Exhaust Operable Public accessible
air intake (m) air outlet (m) window (m) area (m) Note4
Note1 Note2 Note3
Cooling tower 7.5 7.5 7.5 7.5

exhaust
Cooling tower 5 7.5 5 5
intake
Note:
1. C
ritical outdoor air intake refers to fresh air intakes of the building air conditioning systems (e.g.
primary air unit, air handling unit, lift vent) or any intake that draws fresh air into the occupied
area.
2. C
ritical exhaust air outlet refers to kitchen exhaust, toilet exhaust, car park exhaust, food
processing exhaust, laboratory exhaust or any exhaust that can contaminate the cooling water
or pollute the cooling air.
3. O
perable window refers to window that has moving parts, such as hinges, and can be
opened. (Refer to definitions.)
4. R
efer to Section 4.1.5 for detail description of public accessible area.
5. O
pening and natural outlet are regarded as exhaust.
2016 Edition 16
(b)
Vertical Separation Distance
If the minimum horizontal separation distance stated in Table 1.1 cannot be
compiled, minimum vertical separation requirements listed in Table 1.2 and 1.3
should be followed. Illustration of vertical separation measurement could be
Table 1.2: Minimum vertical separation distance above cooling towers
Vertical Separation Distance (above cooling tower)

Location: above Critical outdoor Critical exhaust Operable Public accessible
the cooling air intake (m) air outlet (m) window (m) area (m)
tower
Cooling tower 20 20Note1 20 20
exhaust
Cooling tower 5 7.5 5 5
intake
Note:
1. If the critical exhaust air outlet is interlocked with non-return damper, or alike, to prevent
infiltration when the exhaust system is not in operation, the exhaust outlet should be distant
from the cooling tower exhaust with a minimum of 7.5m separation.
Table 1.3: Minimum vertical separation distance below cooling tower
Vertical Separation Distance (below cooling tower)

Location: below Critical outdoor Critical exhaust Operable Public accessible
the cooling air intake (m) air outlet (m) window (m) area (m)
tower
Cooling tower 7.5 7.5 7.5 9.3
exhaust (7.5+1.8Note1 )
Cooling tower 5 7.5 5 6.8
intake (5+1.8)
Note:
1. 1
.8m above ground is counting for breathing zone for pedestrian. Examples could be referred
to Appendix 1B – Figure B4.
4.1.5 No public accessible area should be located within 7.5m horizontal separation
distance from the cooling tower exhaust and 5m horizontal separation distance
from the cooling tower intake. Special arrangement for the cooling tower
installation could be considered for satisfying the separation requirements.
Examples could be referred to Appendix 1B – Figure B5 to B7.
4.1.6 If the exhaust air from a cooling tower system discharges towards a louvre or an
opening, a deflector or an air ductwork should be provided to divert the exhaust
air from cooling tower to an appropriate direction.
2016 Edition 17
4.1.7 If the cooling tower is installed outdoors with an extended ductwork for
exhaust air, measurement should be taken from the exhaust termination of the
ductwork. If the cooling tower is installed in an enclosed cooling tower plant
room, measurement should be taken from the exhaust/intake termination of
the cooling tower plant room. Illustration of separation measurement could be
4.1.8 If cooling tower is installed below an extended podium, a minimum horizontal
separation of 7.5m between the edge of the extended podium and the nearest
edge of plant room’s opening/ louvre should be maintained. Otherwise, the
building blocks and accessible area on the podium should be distant from
the edge of the podium with a minimum of 7.5m separation. Illustration of
separation measurement could be referred to Appendix 1B - Figure B10.
4.1.9 The prevailing wind condition should be considered to determine if the cooling
tower exhaust will create nuisance to the third party (including the occupants
inside a building and the surroundings).
4.2 Cooling Towers installed on Building Roof

4.2.1 Cooling tower installed on building roof should maintain adequate separation
from the nearest outdoor air intake, exhaust air outlet, operable window, public
accessible area as stipulated in Section 4.1, so that the drift and air emitted from
the cooling tower will not enter the building through the outdoor air intake
and operable window or the exhaust air from the building will not become the
cooling air for the cooling tower.
4.3 Cooling Towers installed on Podium Roof

4.3.1 Cooling tower installed on podium roof is possibly to be surrounded by
residential blocks, which may affect the air flow pattern and dispersion of
drift within that region. Therefore, cooling tower location should be carefully
selected so that exhaust air, drift and plume generated from cooling tower
would not cause nuisance to the residents.
4.3.2 Cooling tower installed on podium roof should maintain adequate separation
from the nearest outdoor air intake, exhaust air outlet, operable window, public
accessible area as stipulated in Section 4.1, so that the drift and air emitted from
the cooling tower will not enter the building through the outdoor air intake
and operable window or the exhaust air from the building will not become the
cooling air for the cooling tower.
4.3.3 In all cases, cooling tower exhaust air should be discharged away from building
operable windows and outdoor air intakes.
2016 Edition 18
4.4 Cooling Tower installed indoors with Vertical Discharge

through Roof or Horizontal Discharge through Side Wall
4.4.1 Cooling tower if located indoor should be installed in a designated plant room.
The plant room should not be accessible by public.
4.4.2 The fire resisting construction for cooling tower plant room and penetrations of
associated pipework/ductwork through fire resisting walls/slabs should be in full
compliance with the Buildings Ordinance.
4.4.3 Sufficient fresh air should be provided to maintain normal operation of cooling
tower systems.
4.4.4 For cooling tower with vertical discharge through roof or horizontal discharge
through side wall, the minimum separation distance from the cooling tower
exhaust to the outdoor air intake, operable window, and public accessible area
should meet the requirements as stipulated in Section 4.1.
4.5 Cooling Towers installed at Other Locations

If the horizontal separation distance between the cooling tower exhaust and the domestic
buildings or medical and health care premises is within 20m, applicants should carry
out a technical assessment and submit a copy of technical assessment report to the
EMSD with the satisfaction of EMSD. The technical assessment report should include
plume abatement report, master layout plans indicating nature of surrounding buildings
, separation distance between cooling towers and domestic buildings or medical and
health care premises, etc., in order to substantiate the proposed installation location of
cooling towers are situated at an optimum location with minimal nuisance causing to the
nearby residents/ occupants. The exhaust of cooling tower should be facing upwards or
appropriate direction to avoid direct facing to the nearby occupants.
4.6 Minimum Separation between Cooling Towers

Separation distance between cooling towers installed adjacent to each other should refer
to technical recommendations provided by cooling tower manufacturers. The minimum
separation should be kept in order to ensure the heat rejection performance of cooling
towers is not affected. If no recommendation from the manufacturer is given, the
minimum separation distance should not be less than the lateral width of the cooling
tower.
4.7 Minimum Separation from Physical Barrier

Obstruction of fresh air intake for cooling tower may have adverse influence to heat
rejection performance. Minimum separation requirement between cooling tower and
physical barrier as recommended by cooling tower manufacturers should be followed. If
no recommendation from the manufacturer is given, the minimum separation distance
should not be less than the lateral width of the cooling tower.
2016 Edition 19
4.8 Installation Location at a Composite Building (Residential

and Commercial)
4.8.1 If the cooling tower is installed at an composite building (residential and
commercial), an applicant should also carry out a technical assessment and
submit a copy of technical assessment report to EMSD with the satisfaction of
EMSD in addition to satisfying the minimum separation distance requirements
as specified in Section 4.1. The technical assessment report should include
plume abatement report, master layout plans indicating nature of surrounding
buildings, separation distance between cooling towers and domestic buildings
or medical and health care premises, etc., in order to substantiate the proposed
installation location of cooling towers are situated at an optimum location with
minimal nuisance causing to the nearby residents/occupants.
4.8.2 The preferred installation location of cooling towers should be distant from the
domestic block the farthest, and cause the least nuisance to the residents and
nearby occupants.
4.8.3 Cooling tower exhaust air should be discharged away from buildings’ operable
windows and outdoor air intakes. The location of cooling tower should be at an
optimum location to minimise nuisance to nearby occupants.
4.8.4 If horizontal separation distance between the cooling tower exhaust and the
domestic buildings or medical and health care premises is within 20m, the
exhaust of cooling tower should be facing upwards or appropriate direction to
avoid direct facing to the nearby occupants.
4.8.5 Plume abatement measure should be adopted for cooling towers which are
installed in composite building. Plume abatement report endorsed by the owner
of the cooling tower system should be submitted at the initial project design
stage.
4.8.6 Risk management plan for the cooling tower system should be prepared and
submitted with the application by the owner/designer of the cooling tower
system. For detail of Risk Management Plan, refer to Section 7.2 of Part 1 of this
Code of Practice.
4.9 Installed Location not fulfilling the Required Minimum

Separation
The requirements of minimum separation as specified in the Section 4.1 should be satisfied
in normal circumstance. In the event that the requirement on minimum separation cannot
be met, alternative mitigation measures can be provided by system owner/designer to
minimise any potential risk with substantiation for consideration. Computational Fluid
Dynamics (CFD) simulation may be used to assist in providing justification in critical case.
2016 Edition 20
5. Cooling Water and Bleed-off Water Control
5.1 Cooling Water Quality Control

5.1.1 General
Good cooling water quality of cooling towers can minimise scaling and
biofouling problems such that effective heat exchange in condenser/heat
exchanger can be maintained. The Part 3 of this Code of Practice provides
details of water treatment for cooling towers.
5.1.2 Cooling water quality
a) Fresh water cooling tower system should be properly designed to achieve
the relevant water quality targets as described in the tables in the Part 2 of
this Code of Practice.
b) Quality of cooling water discharged from cooling tower system
should comply with the requirements stipulated in the EPD’s Technical
Memorandum on Standards for Effluent Discharged into Drainage and
Sewerage Systems, Inland and Coastal Waters. It should be noted that the
effluent discharge requirement may vary with the discharge flow rate.
5.2 Bleed-off Control and Reuse of Bleed-off Water

5.2.1 General
Bleed-off is required to maintain the concentration of total dissolved solids (TDS),
insoluble precipitates, other chemical constituents and pH value of cooling tower
at an acceptable level. Bleed-off is preferred to be performed automatically
by a conductivity sensor. Bleed-off immediately after chemical dosage should
be avoided to minimise chemicals wastage. Timer Control or manual bleed-
off is not preferred unless automatic bleed-off by a conductivity sensor is not
practicable.
5.2.2 Bleed-off water quantity
In order to prevent water wastage, the minimum cycle of concentration in
designing water treatment program and bleed off requirement should not be
less than six (6) for fresh water cooling tower system. Drainage system should
be designed based on the estimated bleed-off quantity.
5.2.3 Bleed-off water quality
The quality of bleed-off water from cooling tower should satisfy the standard
specified in the Technical Memorandum on Standards for Effluent Discharged
into Drainage and Sewerage System, Inland and Coastal Waters issued under the
Water Pollution Control Ordinance. Other standards that are set for toxic metals
should also be complied with.
2016 Edition 21
5.2.4 Reuse of bleed-off water

a) The bleed-off water from cooling tower should be reused for flushing
purpose by discharging it to a retention tank before transferring it to the
flushing water tank or discharging it directly to the flushing water tank.
In both cases, the retention tank or the flushing tank should be designed
to store bleed-off water discharged by the cooling tower of not less than
two hours of operation. If bleed-off water is directly discharged to the
flushing water tank, adequate capacity in the flushing water tank should be
reserved to prevent overflowing. In both cases, the bleed-off water should
be prioritised to refill the flushing tank.
b) WSD’s quality requirements for flushing water should be referred to Table
2.2 in Part 2 of the Code of Practice. If the bleed-off water quality is
found beyond the water quality requirements as listed in the Table 2.2,
the flushing water at distribution should be regularly checked and closely
monitored for compliance. The bleed-off water may be treated when
necessary to achieve the stated water quality criteria for flushing supply at
distribution.
c) In case of bleed-off water cannot be fully utilised for flushing, owners or
designer of the cooling tower should propose other alternatives for the
arrangement of utilising the bleed-off water for the satisfaction of relevant
authorities.
5.2.5 Bleed-off water directly discharged to public sewerage system
Direct discharge of bleed-off water should not be made to the public sewerage
system in the physical arrangement. The owner / designer of the cooling
tower system should submit an application for not reusing bleed-off water for
flushing to the satisfaction of the relevant authorities in order to obtain a special
permission. In case the bleed-off water is not reused for flushing, wholly or
partially, a retention tank may be required to be installed to withhold the bleed-
off water for discharge to the public sewerage at the time to be agreed by the
relevant authorities. For application of the licence for the discharge of bleed-off
water, please refer to the FWCT Scheme Brochure.
2016 Edition 22
6. Notices and Labels

6.1 All cooling towers, water treatment equipment, water tanks and pipeworks
should be properly labeled to provide clear indication for operation and
maintenance personnel.
6.2 A nameplate engraved with EMSD registration number should be provided for
each cooling tower.
6.3 Warning signs should be erected to alert operation and maintenance personnel
of the potential hazard caused by cooling tower.
6.4 Warning signs should also be erected to restrict unauthorised access to cooling
towers.
6.5 Labels and signs should be durable and securely fixed/marked on the following
location. The English and Chinese characters of the labels and signs should be at
least 8mm and 15mm high respectively.
a) Outside cooling tower apparatus area/room;
b) Outside chiller plant and condensing water pump area/room;
c) Make-up pipe;
d) Bleed-off pipe;
e) Condensing water supply & return pipe;
f) Dead-leg purge valve;
g) Water sampling valve/tap;
h) Water treatment product handling area;
i) Cooling water quality control station;
j) Make-up condensing water tank;
k) Bleed-off water break tank; and
l) Flushing water tank.
6.6 Samples of notices and labels could be referred to Appendix 1C.
2016 Edition 23
7. Risk Management of a Cooling Tower System
7.1 General
If cooling tower system is installed in medical and health premises and any other premises
which are considered necessary, a risk management plan for the cooling tower system
should be developed and the risk management plan should be endorsed by the owner of
the cooling tower system.
7.2 Risk Management Plan

7.2.1 The risk management plan for the cooling tower system should be prepared
when designing the cooling tower system or whenever necessary. In developing
risk management plan for complicated cooling tower systems, consultation with
experienced system designers, cooling tower suppliers, water treatment service
provider, operation and maintenance (O&M) contractor of cooling tower and
occupational hygienists is suggested.
7.2.2 The general guidelines for developing a risk management plan for a cooling
tower system are shown below.
a) To provide the site and key contact details of the cooling tower system.
b) To identify, but not limited to, the following risk that are potentially found
in a cooling tower system
• Stagnant water
• Nutrient growth
• Poor water quality
• Deficiencies in the cooling tower system
• Location and access
c) To assess the above risks if they are found in the respective cooling tower
system.
d) To recommend the mitigation measures if the above risks are found in the
respective cooling tower system.
e) To formulate an operational programme based on the above risk
assessment results and recommended mitigation measures. The contents
should at least include frequencies of inspection, service, cleaning,
disinfection, HCC testing and legionella testing.
f) To provide a communication plan in case the cooling tower system is
required to be attended urgently, such as positive Legionella testing results,
complaints from the public, etc.
g) To provide a procedure for monitoring and reviewing the Risk Management
Plan.
2016 Edition 24
7.2.3 Risk management plan should be submitted along with the application to use
cooling towers in the air conditioning system or whenever requested by EMSD.
7.2.4 A standard risk management plan is shown in Appendix 1D for reference.
7.2.5 Risk management plan is required to be reviewed under the following
circumstances:
a) Results of checks indicate that mitigation measures are ineffective; or
b) If a case of Legionnaires’ disease is associated with a building.
2016 Edition 25
8. Testing and Commissioning of Cooling Tower Systems
8.1 Testing and Commissioning

Testing and commissioning of cooling tower should be witnessed by a registered
professional engineer (RPE) in Building Services or Mechanical discipline. A sample
checklist for testing and commissioning of cooling tower system can be referred to
Appendix 1E.
8.2 Occupational Safety and Health

8.2.1 The employers or occupiers must ensure safety and health at work of all
employees under the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance.
8.2.2 Sufficient personal protective equipment should be provided to the personnel
responsible to carry out testing and commissioning work of a cooling tower
system. Recommended list of personal protective equipment required related to
different job nature is shown in Appendix 1F.
8.2.3 Eye wash bottles or washing basin with fresh water tap should be provided
adjacent to water treatment chemicals tanks or any appropriate location for
emergency use. The water contained in the eye wash bottle should be replaced
periodically.
8.2.4 Water treatment chemical should be stored at an appropriate location to
facilitate chemical handling.
8.2.5 Mechanical/natural ventilation should be provided to the room entirely/partially
used for water treatment chemical storage.
8.2.6 Electrical fittings and luminaries serving water treatment chemical storage area
should be weather-proof and corrosion resistant type.
2016 Edition 26
9 Design and Commissioning Records

9.1 Formal design and commissioning records of a cooling tower system should
be kept by the cooling tower owner for the whole life of the system. The
records should be made available for inspections upon request by Government
appointed officials. The record should include, but not limited to the following:
a) The name, contact phone and address of the owner of the cooling tower
system;
b) The name, contact phone and address of the cooling tower designer, who
is responsible for the design of the cooling tower system;
c) The name, contact phone and address of the cooling tower contractor,
who is responsible for the installation, testing and commissioning of the
cooling tower system;
d) Design details of the cooling tower system;
e) Descriptions of the cooling towers and water treatment equipment,
including their locations, technical specifications, models, capacities and
year of manufacture/installation as well as correct operation procedure;
f) Testing results of all equipment in the cooling tower system; and
g) Water sampling results.
9.2 The operation and maintenance (O&M) manual of the cooling tower system
should be prepared by the O&M contractor of cooling tower and kept by the
owner of cooling tower system. The O&M manual should at least consist of the
followings:
a) Technical details of all equipment in a cooling tower system, including
drawings of the plant, equipment and systems;
b) System schematic and layout plan showing the locations of cooling towers
and the nearby openings in the building and the adjacent buildings;
c) Manufacturers’ recommendations on operation and maintenance of all
equipment in the cooling tower system;
d) A programme for routine chemical treatment, cleaning, desludging and
disinfection of the cooling tower;
e) Details of water chemicals used for water treatment;
f) Recommended cleaning methods and dismantling instructions; and
g) Start-up, operating and shut-down procedures.
2016 Edition 27
10 Qualification of a System Designer

A fresh water cooling tower system should be designed by a registered professional
engineer (RPE) in Building Services or Mechanical discipline.
2016 Edition 28
11 Reference Information
11.1 The following Ordinances, Technical Memorandum and Code of Practice should
be compiled with in the design, installation and commissioning of cooling
towers:
• Waterworks Ordinance (WWO) (Cap. 102)
• Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123)
• Sewage Services Ordinance (SSO) (Cap. 463)
• Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO) (Cap. 358)
• Air Pollution Control Ordinance (APCO) (Cap. 311)
• Noise Control Ordinance (NCO) (Cap. 400)
• Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance (OSHO) (Cap. 509)
• Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (PHMSO) (Cap. 132)
• Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance (BEEO) (Cap. 610)
• Technical Memorandum on Standards for Effluent Discharged into Drainage
and Sewerage System, Inland and Coastal Waters, EPD
• Technical Memorandum for the Assessment of Noise from Places other
than Domestic Premises, Public Places or Construction Sites, EPD
• Fresh Water Cooling Towers Scheme, EMSD
• Code of Practice for Prevention of Legionnaires’ Disease, PLDC
11.2 It is advised that designers should check other relevant statutory requirements
and seek the professional advice from a Licensed Plumber, an Authorized
Person (AP) and a Registered Professional Engineer (RPE) of Building Services or
Mechanical disciplines when they have queries in the standard of work required.
2016 Edition 29
Appendix 1A
Typical Schematic Diagram of Fresh Water Cooling Towers
Condensing Water Circuit
2016 Edition 30
Appendix 1B
Guidance Notes on Minimum Separation Requirements for
Cooling Towers
B1 - General Separation Measurement

The minimum horizontal separation should be measured from the nearest edge of the
cooling tower exhaust / intake to the nearest edge of the outdoor air intake, exhaust air
outlet or operable window. Also, horizontal distance should be considered separately
from the vertical distance and they should not be summed up together or used directional
distance to meet the minimum separation requirement. The figures below illustrate some
common misinterpretations with respect to the requirement of this Code of Practice.
Figure B1 – General Separation Measurement
2016 Edition 31
B2 – Minimum Horizontal and Vertical Separation

(Details refer Section 4.1.4)
B2.1 - Horizontal Separation

The cooling tower’s exhaust/ intake louvre should be distant from critical louvres/ operable
windows/ public accessible area with minimum horizontal distance as shown in Figure B2.
Figure B2 – Horizontal Separation
2016 Edition 32
B2.2 - Vertical Separation

If the minimum horizontal distance cannot be complied, minimum vertical separation
distance as shown in Figure B3 and Figure B4 should be fulfilled.
Figure B3 – Vertical Separation
2016 Edition 33
Figure B4 – Vertical Separation with public accessible area
B3 – Reference Cases
B3.1 - Special Arrangement for meeting the minimum separation

requirements
(Refer to Section 4.1.5)
Figure B5 – Provision of permanent fixed physical barrier
2016 Edition 34
Figure B6 – Provision of overhead cover
Figure B7 – Provision of non-perforated barrier
2016 Edition 35
B3.2 – C
ooling Tower installed at enclosed plant room
(refer to Section 4.1.7)
Figure B8 – Cooling tower at enclosed plant room
Figure B9 - Cooling tower at enclosed plant room
2016 Edition 36
B3.3 – C
ooling towers below extended podium
(refer to Section 4.1.8)
Figure B10 – Cooling towers below extended podium
2016 Edition 37
Appendix 1C
Samples of Notices and Labels for Cooling Tower System
(i) Cooling Tower Registration No.:

機電工程署登記號碼 ▲ Text height min.
EMSD Reg. No. PS-2016-000-001 No. 1 ▼ 50mm
(ii) Window located in cooling tower restricted area:

此窗戶位於冷卻塔限制範圍內，除緊急情況外，須保持關閉。
This window is located in cooling tower restricted area. It should be closed except emergency.
(iii) Passage located in cooling tower restricted area:

此通道位於冷卻塔限制範圍內，除緊急情況外，請勿進入。
This passage located in cooling tower restricted area. No entry except emergency.
(iv) Cooling water sampling point:

冷卻水取水樣本點(須每月取樣檢測)
Cooling water sampling point (Water sampling for testing monthly)
(v) Bleed-off water sampling point:

泄放水取水樣本點(須每三個月取樣檢測)
Bleed-off water sampling point (Water sampling for testing every 3 months)
(vi) Stagnant water purging valve:

死水排放閥門
(須每星期排放最少15分鐘)
Stagnant water purging valve
(Purge at least 15 minutes weekly)
2016 Edition 38
Appendix 1D
A Standard Risk Management Plan for Fresh Water Cooling
Tower System
A. System Description
Record Details
Building Name and Building Address
Cooling tower type
Number of cooling tower in system
Heat rejection capacities of the cooling towers
Building owner’s name/contact details*
Owner of cooling tower ’s name and contact details*
Designer of cooling tower system ’s name and contact details*
*To include company name, contact person’s business and after hours telephone numbers
B. Major Risks – Location and Access

Types of Risk Assessment Mitigation
Measures
Cooling tower system is located in/near an acute health

or aged residential care facility
Cooling tower exhaust creates nuisances to the public
Cooling tower exhaust affects the intake and/or exhaust

of nearby ventilation system
Nearby air exhaust to supply nutrients for bacteria

growth in cooling tower system (kitchen, toilet and
carpark exhausts)
Cooling tower next to public accessible area
Potential danger to maintenance workers
C. Major Risks – Deficiencies in cooling tower system

Measures
Drift emission from cooling tower
Materials used support micro-organisms proliferation
Failure of cooling tower system structure
2016 Edition 39
D. Major Risks – Stagnant Water

Measures
Dead legs exist in water pipework
Cooling tower(s) and associated pipework not in use for
more than a month
E. Major Risks – Nutrient Growth

Measures
Contamination from surrounding area(s) (an increase of

nutrients for bacteria growth in cooling tower system)
Cooling tower’s wetted surfaces expose to direct sunlight

(enhancing algae growth)
Corrosion of system components
F. Major Risks – Poor Water Quality

Measures
HCC count
Legionella Count
Bleed-off water quality
Malfunctioned chemical dosing system
G. Other Risks
Measures
2016 Edition 40
H. Attachments
□ Operation programme based on the above risk assessment result.
□C
ommunication plan in case the cooling tower system is required to be attended
urgently, such as positive legionella testing results, complaints from the public, etc.
□ Procedure for monitoring and reviewing the Risk Management Plan.
2016 Edition 41
Appendix 1E
A Sample Checklist for Minimum Testing and Commissioning
Procedures of Fresh Water Cooling Tower System
Building Name :
Cooling Tower :
Designation
Cooling Tower Type :
Manufacturer/Model No. :
Location :
A. Physical Check
Items Accepted Not Accepted
1. General Condition of Cooling Tower
2. Cleanliness of basin
3. Fixing of Drift Eliminator
4. Fixing of Fill
5. Fans Rotation without Obstruction
6. Fan & Pump Motor for Proper Rotation
7. Noise/Vibration
8. Drive Alignment/Belt Tension
9. Other Components, Bolts, Fixing, etc.
10. Bearings Lubrication
11. Drainage & Fall
12. Strainer Cleanliness
13. Ball Float Valve Function
14. Tower Water Level
15. Water Distribution
16. Water Treatment Equipment
17. Electrical Supply Connection
18. Earth Bonding
2016 Edition 42
B. Cooling Tower Thermal Performance Check

Parameters Unit Design Data Test Results
1. Heat Rejection Capacity kW
2. Air Flowrate m3/s
3. Entering Air Dry Bulb Temperature °C
4. Entering Air Wet Bulb Temperature °C
5. Leaving Air Dry Bulb Temperature °C
6. Leaving Air Wet Bulb Temperature °C
7. Cooling Water Flow Rate L/s
8. Cooling Water Entering Temperature °C
9. Cooling Water Leaving Temperature °C
10. Make-up Water Quantity L/s
11. Constant Bleed Water Quantity L/s
C. Cooling Tower Fan Check

1. Fan Type -
2. Fan Diameter m
3. Fan Volume m3/s
4. Fan Power kW
5. Fan Pressure Pa
D. Cooling Tower Electrical Test

1. Supply Voltage V
2. Motor Starting Current A
3. Motor Running Current A
4. Motor/Fan Speed rpm
5. Phase – Phase Motor Insulation (RY/YB/BR) MΩ

6. Phase – Earth Motor Insulation (RY/YB/BR) MΩ
7. Motor Starter Type -
2016 Edition 43
Appendix 1F
A Recommended List of Personal Protective Equipment
Job Potential Hazard Respirator and Clothing
Testing and commissioning Aerosol Half face piece, capable of filtering smaller
than 5μm particulates, ordinary work clothing
Inspection Aerosol Half face piece, capable of filtering smaller

Water Sampling Aerosol Half face piece, capable of filtering smaller

High pressure spraying Aerosol Respirator as above, waterproof overalls,

gloves, boots, goggles or face shield
Chemical treatment with Spray mist and very low Half face piece, acid gas and particulate
sodium hypo-chlorite solution in concentration chlorine respirator, goggles or face shield, overalls,
ventilated space gloves, and boots
As above, in confined space Unknown chlorine To comply with the requirement under
concentration, high the Factories and Industrial Undertakings
mist, possible lack of (Confined Spaces) Regulation
oxygen
2016 Edition 44
機電工程署能源效益事務處
香港九龍灣啟成街三號
Energy Efficiency Office
Electrical and Mechanical Services Department
3 Kai Shing Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Printed on recycled paper 電話 Tel: (852) 3757 6156 傳真 Fax: (852) 2890 6081
再造紙印製網址 Website: www.emsd.gov.hk
電郵 Email: info@emsd.gov.hk

fwctCoP Part 1 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

fwctCoP Part 1 PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

fwctCoP Part 1 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Code of Practice for Fresh Water Cooling Towers

Part 1: Design, Installation and Commissioning

PART 1: DESIGN, INSTALLATION AND

Electrical and Mechanical Services Department

The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

2. Cooling Tower Types and Cooling Tower Systems 3

3. Cooling Tower Construction and Installation Requirements 10

4. Cooling Tower Installed Location 16

2016 Edition iii

5. Cooling Tower Water and Bleed-off Water Control 21

6. Notices and Labels 23

7. Risk Management of a Cooling Tower System 24

8. Testing and Commissioning of Cooling Tower Systems 26

9. Design and Commissioning Records 27

10. Qualification of a System Designer 28

11. Reference Information 29

Biocide : A physical or chemical agent that kills bacteria and other

Biodispersant : A chemical compound added to the water inside cooling tower

Biofilm : A surface layer of microorganisms. It is usually combined with

Commissioning : A systematic and progressive process of putting the components

Cooling tower : A device for lowering the temperature of water by evaporative

Cooling tower : A heat exchange system comprising a heat-generating plant (chiller

Cycle of : The ratio between the concentration of dissolved solids in the

Disinfection : Preventive maintenance action of applying a treatment to a system,

Dispersant : Reagent usually added with other treatment chemicals to prevent

Drift eliminator : A grid or grille-like arrangement of physical barriers located before

Exhaust air outlet : A termination of a mechanical or natural ventilation system

Filtration : The process of separating solids from a liquid by means of a porous

Fouling : Organic growth or other deposits on heat transfer surfaces causing

Legionnaires’ : It is a type of bacterial pneumonia caused by legionella.

Medical and : Hospitals, general clinics, specialist clinics; community support

Non-oxidising : A non-oxidising biocide is one that functions by mechanisms other

2016 Edition vii

Operable : An operable window is a window that has moving parts, such as

Outdoor air : A termination of a mechanical or natural ventilation system that

Passivation : The formation of a protective film, visible or invisible, which

Public accessible : An area that is accessible by the public or building occupants

Podium Roof : Roof of the lower part of a building.

Scale : A crystalline deposit that can form on surfaces or pipework within

2016 Edition viii

Scale inhibitor : Chemicals used to control scale. They function by holding up

Sludge : A building up of sediment that can be found in the basin or

Temporary shut- : Cooling tower temporarily shut-down is the entire/part of the

a) All currently in force Legislation and other Subsidiary Legislation.

b) The relevant Codes of Practice and Technical Standards.

c) This Code of Practice.

2. Cooling Tower Types and Cooling Tower Systems

2.2 Cooling Tower Types

Figure 1.1: Classification of cooling tower

2.2.3 Direct-contact cooling tower

Induced Draft Induced Draft Forced Draft Forced Draft

Figure 1.2: Types of direct-contact cooling towers

a) Induced Draft Counter Flow Type

b) Induced Draft Cross Flow Type

c) Forced Draft Counter Flow Type

d) Forced Draft Cross Flow Type

2.2.4 Indirect-contact cooling tower

Figure 1.7: Typical configuration of closed-circuit cooling tower with no fill

Coil Shed Cooling Tower

Figure 1.7: Typical configuration of closed-circuit cooling tower with no fill