Cooling towers are an essential part of many industrial processes, as they ensure the efficient removal of excess and/or waste heat generated during a variety of manufacturing processes. Most cooling towers were traditionally constructed of wood, but considering water’s long-term effects on wood, it isn’t an ideal structural material. Here are six reasons why fiber reinforced polymer structural shapes (FRP) are the best products out of which to build cooling towers:

Corrosion Resistance

Cooling towers are exposed to water and chemicals, which can be corrosive to traditional materials. Fiberglass, also known as fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) or glass fiber reinforced plastic (GRP), has excellent resistance to corrosion, making it an ideal material choice for cooling tower construction. It can withstand the harsh conditions and extended exposure to moisture, chemicals, and UV radiation without degrading like most traditional materials would.

Lightweight and High Strength

Fiberglass is a lightweight material that offers a high strength-to-weight ratio. This makes it easier to transport, handle, and install cooling tower components. Despite its lightweight nature, fiberglass is structurally sound and can be engineered to withstand the loads and stresses encountered in cooling tower applications.

Design Flexibility

Fiberglass can be molded into various shapes and sizes, allowing for flexibility in cooling tower design. It can be easily formed into intricate geometries and custom configurations to optimize performance and efficiency. This flexibility enables manufacturers to create cooling towers that are tailored to specific project requirements and space constraints. Traditional wood cooling towers used 2x4, 2x6, and 4x4 treated lumber, as well as plywood for decking. Pultruded FRP channels, square tubes, and decking are a simple one-for-one replacement geometrically for those traditional wooden sizes.

Thermal Insulation

Fiberglass possesses inherent thermal insulation properties. It helps reduce heat transfer, minimizing the loss of cooling efficiency in the tower structure. This insulation capability contributes to energy savings and improved overall performance of the cooling system.

Longevity and Durability

Fiberglass has a long service life and requires minimal maintenance. It is resistant to rot, rust, and degradation, ensuring the durability of the cooling tower over an extended period. Fiberglass cooling towers are known for their longevity and can withstand harsh environmental conditions without significant deterioration.

Cost-effectiveness

While the upfront cost of fiberglass cooling towers may be higher compared to some other materials, their long-term cost-effectiveness comes from reduced maintenance needs, longevity, and energy efficiency. The low maintenance requirements and extended service life help offset the initial investment.

Overall, fiberglass offers a combination of corrosion resistance, strength, design flexibility, insulation properties, longevity, and cost-effectiveness, making it a suitable material for cooling tower construction.

Please don’t hesitate to contact Strongwell to learn more about how your cooling tower project can benefit from the use of fiberglass.