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CTI Bibliography of Technical Papers - Repair and Construction

Revised March 2008

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Repair and Construction
Order Number Title Author Date
Cooling Tower Maintenance (TP-17B) J.R. DeMonbrun, Union Carbide Corporation 1965
Abstract:
Design of Concrete Basins for Cooling Towers (TP-92A) A.G. Stepp, Monsanto Company 1971
Abstract:
Cooling Tower Rebuilding (TP-125A) Robert Burger, Robert Burger Associates, Inc. 1974
Abstract:
How to Repair a Cooling Tower (TP-173A) James L. Willa & David Hoffman Lilie-Hoffmann Cooling Towers, Inc. 1977
Abstract:
Basic Cooling Tower Technology and Rebuilding for Profits (TP-184A) Robert Burger, Robert Burger Associates, Inc. 1978
Abstract:
Custom Reconstruction of Southwestern Public Service Company Jones Station Unit - 1 Cooling Tower (TP-205A) Peter G. Botsonis, Southwestern Public Service Company 1979
Abstract:
Considerations for the Structural Analysis and Design of Wood-Framed Cooling Towers (TP-220A) Robert I. Speight, P.E., Bac-Pritchard, Inc. 1980
Abstract: The analysis and design of timber-framed cooling towers is the process in which we must 1) summarize and coordinate applicable coodes and standards, 2) identify and classify loads imposed on the tower, 3) analyze the distributed effects of applied loads, 4) determine allowable loads, and 5) apply the design criteria in a manner consistent with actual physical details of the tower construction. When carried out in rigorous and practical manner, this process will yield a structure having a good balance of strength and economy.
Cooling Tower - Money Making Machines (TP-242A) Robert Burger, Burger Assoc., Inc. 1981
Abstract: The question regarding what can be done to a cooling tower to decrease the sump temperature to improve plant performance is reviewed. Examples are discussed.
Preplanning for Cooling Tower Upgrading (TP-259A) C.J. McCann, Tower Performance Inc. 1983
Abstract: Before proceeding with a thermal upgrade project determine the present, or like new, thermal operating level of the tower relative to the original design conditions. Then, with an evaluation of the components and thermal potential the user can establish the necessary steps to meet his cooling requirements.
An Evaluation of Steel as a Cooling Tower Structural Material (TP-268A) David Hutton, P.E., Bac-Pritchard Inc. 1983
Abstract: An objective evaluation of common structural materials used in the construction of industrial cooling towers is made, based on their physical properties. The result is that steel offers the best overall combination of desirable properties, provided that a solution to corrosion in the industrial environment can be found. The theory of corrosion and accepted methods of corrosion protection are examined. A recently developed protection system utilizing a thermosetting hybrid polymer fusion-bonded to a hot-dip galvanized steel substrate (patent pending) is reviewed, with emphasis on how it was developed, and how its performance has been proven through a variety of chemical and mechanical tests. A conclusion is reached that steel with appropriate corrosion protection should be the preferred structural material for industrial cooling towers.
Restoration and Repair of 30-Year Old Cooling Towers at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant, Phase I (TP-85-11) M.F. Shelton, Martin Marietta Energy Systems 1985
Abstract: Major cooling tower repairs accomplished during 1983 and 1984: 1) Replacing the underground portion of 46 risers located at 6 cooling towers, 2) Deck replacement on 2 16-cell counterflow and 2 14-cell crossflow towers. 3) Fan motor feeder cable and conduit replacement on 2 16-cell counterflow and 2 14-cell crossflow towers. Deals with equipment condition, problems encountered and types of replacement materials.
Utility Crossflow Cooling Tower Thermal Repair & Upgrading (TP-85-21) Dennis R. Moran, CM Towers, Inc. 1985
Abstract: The "new" crossflow cooling towers built for the power generation field during the 1970's has undergone significant problems with the fill/support systems. This report looks at what has been the cause, as well as reviewing the updated considerations for repairing from a thermal, materials of construction and cost point of view.
Replacement of Asbestos Cement Fills in Natural Draft Cooling Towers (TP-86-08) George A. Gay & David W. Stackhouse, Custodis-Ecodyne, Inc. 1986
Abstract: Case studies will be presented based on experience with actual fill replacements in crossflow and counterflow towers. The contribution of water chemistry and cold weather operation to deterioration of asbestos cement fill will be addressed. Environmental considerations in handling and disposal of asbestos materials will be discussed along with the appropriate interface with regulatory agencies. Details of the design and installation of the replacement plastic fill system will be shown and their effect on the performance of the tower will be described.
Restoration, Testing and Repair of 30-Year Cooling Tower at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant Phase II (TP-87-16) M.F. Shelton, Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc. 1987
Abstract: Four fan cells of a 30-year old, 14 cell crossflow, redwood splash fill tower were selected to install and test PVC-V-Bar fill. This paper deals with the demolition, installation and unique method of collecting tower off water temperature data to perform a CTI Performance Test. Because of cooling demand the entire 14-cell fan cell tower had to remain in service during the tests.
Crossflow to Counterflow Cooling Tower Conversion (TP-89-03) Allen E. Feltzin, Airco Industrial Gases 1989
Abstract: This paper describes the conversion of a 16,000 gpm single crossflow wood splash tower to a film pack counterflow tower at one of our air separation plants. Emphasis is placed on a thermal benefits as compared to other retrofit options. Performance test results are included.
Modification of the Induce Draft Cooling Tower at Cross Generating Station - Cross, South Carolina (TP-89-09) R.W. Lemay & Vino Verma, Santee Cooper 1989
Abstract: Research Cottrell constructed the concrete induced draft-cooling tower at Cross Generating Station in 1984. The initial performance test indicated a major tower deficiency. The subsequent performance tests I '85-'87 indicated a drastic degradation in performance. The tower was upgraded in April '88 during the scheduled plant outage of three weeks. The major modification included replacing the existing fill (approx. 180,000 cubic feet), nozzle assemblies, drift eliminators and adding a cross-flow section. A performance test of modified tower is to be conducted in June-July. Results will be discussed.
Removal of Asbestos Paper Fill From Large Industrial Cooling Towers (TP-90-04) E.D. Mittendorf, Cascade Dept. Operations Division 1990
Abstract: A total of 81 counterflow fan cells at the Paducah Plant contain asbestos paper fill. Because of environmental and health considerations and the deteriorated condition of the fill itself, it was determined that we should remove and replace this fill. This document deals with an approved method of removing asbestos paper fill. Included will be a discussion of the proper safety equipment and clothing, sampling techniques, plasticizing the entire tower, obtaining negative air through High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, removal of the asbestos, and moving it to landfill. Final clean up, encapsulation of any remaining fibers, and clearance sampling will also be discussed.
On-Line Rebuild of Cooling Tower Serving a 500 MW Power Station (TP-91-06) Roger R. Burger, Grand River Dam Authority, H. Peter Fay, GEA Power Cooling Systems, Inc. 1991
Abstract: Upgrading and rebuilding of cooling towers during plant outages is common practice in industry. Demolition and rebuilding of a tower while keeping the plant on-line at full power presents special challenges and solutions. This paper describes such a rebuild program including the planning, specifying, and execution involved in replacing an existing wood framed tower with a concrete tower at the Grand River Dam Authority Power Station.
Refurbishing America's First Hyperbolic Cooling Tower (TP-91-15) Brian W. Deuvall, The Marley Cooling Tower Co., and Frank L. Michel & Dan H. Drew, American Electric Power Service Corp. 1991
Abstract: When completed in 1962, Kentucky Power Company's Big Sandy Unit 1 cooling tower was the first built in this country using large-scale natural draft design with a concrete hyperbolic shell. The decision to replace the internal components recently after 26 years of operation offered the opportunity to utilize current technology and materials. This tower's maintenance and operations history, and general condition at time of rebuild will be reviewed.
Design Methodology and Recommended Maintenance for FRP Composite Structured Cooling Towers (TP-92-05) JessSeawell & Toby Daley, Ceramic Cooling Tower Co. 1992
Abstract: High performance composite structures and components offer long life, low maintenance, and corrosion-free, low fire hazard options to the cooling tower owner. But to take full advantage of this life expectancy the designer must be aware of certain design parameters unique to composites that must be addressed. Additionally, there are routine inspections and maintenance procedures that should be incorporated to insure and prolong the cooling tower structure integrity.
Cross to Counter Flow Repack on Induced Draft Operating Cooling Tower Michel Monjoie, Hamon Thermal Engineers & Contractors 1996
Abstract: The paper describes the repack experience of a cross flow cooling tower to a counter flow one using film fill, the cooling tower remaining in operation. The thermal capability, the winter operation and the pumping head has been improved.
Design Considerations for a Fiberglass, Field Erected, Closed-Circuit Cooling Tower Christopher W. Carlson, P.E., Baltimore Aircoil Company 1997
Abstract: What is believed to be the world's first fiberglass, field erected, closed-circuit cooling tower has been recently constructed. The paper contains a review of the major design differences between closed-circuit cooling towers in which the air and water streams flow essentially parallel and other more conventional field erected cooling products. The structural design considerations for dead, wind and vibrational loads as well as those required for field erection are offered. Guidelines for the selection of composite and non-composite materials of construction are presented.
PGDP Enhances Plant RCW Reliability Michael Talley, Teresa Gross, John Elrod, Lockheed Martin Utility Services 1997
Abstract: The recirculating cooling water (RCW) system has served the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant (PGDP) since 1951. Over the years, there have been changes to the system: cooling tower additions, cooling tower replacements, pump upgrades and the installation of a cathodic protection system. However, the basic system of headers and piping remains the same as the original construction. This paper will illustrate the problems experienced in a 40+-year-old piping system and the methods used to transform failing expansion joints, valves and piping ranging from 12 and 60 inch diameter into a reliable operating facility.
Advances in Oil Mist Lubrication for Cooling Towers Fred Paben, Lubrication Systems Company 1998
Abstract: This paper reviews the operating principles and advances that have been made in oil mist lubrication for electric motors and purcing gearboxes. Oil mist systems provide the most effective protection against water contamination, corrosion and premature failures of cooling tower gearboxes. Users report a reduction up to 90% of the lubrication related electric motor bearing failures and 75% of the gearbox failures. This minimizes injury risk by reducing field repair work. A case study of a cooling tower installation in a refinery will be presented.
Evaluation of Design Loads for FRP Composite Columns Dr. Robert L. Yuan, University of Texas 1999
Abstract: This paper presents an evaluation of design loads for FRP composite columns fabricated from a pultrusion process. An experimental investigation was performance on the behavior of three manufacturing products, including two column cross-section configurations with various lengths. The objectives of the research are to determine the ultimate load capacity of each group and to compare with the published design information. All full-scale columns were tested in a vertical position under axial compressive loads. The test results and analysis have provided a comprehensive evaluation of FRP Composite columns.
Improved Ower Plant Performance With Evaporative Steam Condensing Dave Hutton, Baltimore Aircoil Company 1999
Abstract: Combining an open cooling tower and a steam condenser into one common unit is a proven technology with many advantages in power generation applications, including reduced first cost, reduced energy consumption, reduced maintenance, and simplified H2O treatment. Performance of the steam turbine benefits from the evaporative condenser's direct approach to wet bulb temp, and operating reliability improves compared to cooling tower/surface condenser. Case histories and comparisons will be presented.
The Retrofit of a Big Cooling Tower at an Oil Refinery in Vienna in Combination with a Significant Noise Reduction Henk van der Spek, Ventilatoren Sirocco Howden 1999
Abstract: At a big oil refinery in Vienna an 18 unit cooling tower has been retrofitted with fan and drive equipment in combination with a significant noise reduction. Public authorities only allowed the necessary retrofitting of the cooling tower after 18 years of operation, if the dominating noise generation of the towers would be effectively reduced. From an inventory study by acoustic specialists it hs turned out that the cooling tower fans were the dominating noise sources for the exposed urban area, in spite of the presence of splashing water in the tower. Two fans have been selected for qualification together with quiet drive equipment. Finally a super low noise fan with special shape could only be accepted. Beside the choice for the fan, the low noise demands had an impact on the selection on all other equipment like E-mothers and gearboxes. The correctness fo the noise analyses was confirmed by control readings after the retrofit job. The presentation will review problem inventory, equipment selection procedure, technical impact of noise requirements on all components and verification.
Collapse of the Conesville 4B Seven Cell Mechanical Draft Cooling Tower Frank L. Michell, Walt Demjanenko & Joe Tseng, American Electric Power 2000
Abstract: Early in the morning of July 12, 1998, one of the two seven cell mechanical draft cooling towers serving American Electric Power's (AEP) 780 MW Conesville Unit 4 suddenly collapsed into the cold water basin. Investigation into the cause of the catastrophic collapse and resulting methodology for evaluating the structural integrity of similar towers on the AEP System will be reviewed. Structural upgrades incorporated into the replacement tower design will also be discussed.
Safe Construction of Field Erected Cooling Towers Mike Bickerstaff, Ceramic Cooling Tower Corporation 2000
Abstract: Field construction and repair of cooling towers often involves safety, health and environment conditions for employees. This fact has long been acknowledged by cooling tower construction companies. There is, however a growing interest in employee safety by the customers, which employ tower suppliers to construct or repair towers in the field. This paper will discuss potential hazards on a cooling tower jobsite, state procedures to correct the potential hazards, and suggest methods to incorporate safety, health and environmental procedures. Finally, the paper will relate the additional benefits that a customer would receive with a safe work environment.
Concrete Basins, Materials Selection in Design and Repair. Thomas G. Toth, Psychrometrics Systems, Inc. 2002
Abstract: This paper is meant to provide a basic introduction and general understanding of the materials available for use in concrete towers and basins, and issues to be accounted for in the design to provide longevity. A basic introduction to the causes of deteriorations in concrete will also be presented along with some common repair methods and repair materials.
Suitability of Preservative-Treated Radiata Pine for Cooling Tower Construction. R.N. Wakeling, D.R. Page and M.J. Collins, Cooling tower Fabricators 2002
Abstract: For over 50 years, radiata pine has been the main construction lumber used in New Zealand. This solely plantation-grown species has unique properties that make it very amenable to preservative treatment, unlike species such as Douglas fir, spruce or hemlock. These properties have allowed it to be used successfully in all manner of industrial applications in New Zealand and Australia, including cooling tower construction. Data is presented to illustrate the long-term durability and serviceability of this species.
Avoiding Cooling Tower Catastrophe. James L. Willa, Willa, Inc. 2002
Abstract: The three major catastrophic events on cooling towers are structural failure, fan failure, and icing damage, in that order. This paper describes in detail the causative factors, methods of detection prior to event, workable preventative solutions, and solutions after the event, on all three types of catastrophes. The author has been personally involved in these type failures on multiple occasions over the past years.
Collapse of Tuttle No. 2 Cooling Tower and Resulting Replacement/Repair Program. Stephen Tips, City Public Service 2002
Abstract: Since the collapse of the W.B. Tuttle plant No. 2, 10-cell, Marley cooling tower in 1998, City Public Service has re-evaluated the condition of its six other old wooden towers and developed a plan for insuring against further failures. Two towers were replaced with new fiberglass towers, and another replacement planned. Three 40-45 year-old creosote treated redwood Marley towers are being repaired and reinforced. This paper describes the failure, replacements, repairs, reinforcement, and reasoning used in making difficult decisions on major expenditures for aging towers on old peaking units with uncertain futures.
Crossflow to Counterflow Natural Draft Tower Conversion Dr. John Arntson, Jamie Bland and Mike Bickerstaff, Ceramic Cooling Tower Corporation and Merwin Jones, Mirant Mid-Atlantic LLC 2003
Abstract: This paper describes the turnkey conversion of an existing Marley Class 700 natural draft cooling tower at Mirant Mid-Atlantic LLC's Chalk Point Generating Station in Southern Maryland, USA from a crossflow configuration to a counterflow configuration. The work involved demolition of the severely degraded crossflow cooling heat exchange system and installing an all new composite fiberglass support structure, low-fouling PVC film fill, high efficient PVC drift eliminators and optimized distribution system, within an 11 week planned outage during the Winter of 2002.
One Company's Legionella Standard J.W. Smith, Shell Global Solutions; Jerry Ransdell and Jim McLean, Shell Chemical Co. 2003
Abstract: Following issuance of Legionella guidelines by CTI, Shell Chemical Company (SCC) upgraded procedures for control of Legionella in its water systems. A Standard was developed which addresses all water systems. This paper will focus on SCC standards and guidelines for cooling towers. The Standard is more prescriptive than the CTI guideline and represents a compilation of regulations and guidelines in the literature. It requires a Health Risk Assessment (HRA) and development of a plan to address risk areas, outlines minimum standards, and provides examples of how to meet the standards. For towers, Legionella testing is required and chlorine residual control ranges are specified.
Correcting Sedimentation Problems at American Electric Power's Conesville Plant River Intake Frank Michell, Pedro Amaya, and C. Dannemiller, American Electric Power, Dr. Robert Ettema, and Marian Muste, University of Iowa 2003
Abstract: American Electric Power's Conesville Generating Station has had a history of chronic problems with silt build-up at the river intake structure. This paper will describe modifications that were completed to the area in front of the intake and to the upstream riverbank that successfully eliminated the sedimentation accumulation problem. Analytical and hydraulic model studies conducted during the design optimization process and construction techniques utilized to minimize impact to the operating generating station will also be reviewed.
Update on the Impact of Water Immersion for Pultruded FRP Clint Smith, Strongwell 2004
Abstract: The development of CTI Standard 137 generated some questions regarding the performance of pultruded structural shapes in a water immersion environment. No data existed for pultruded Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP), but there was some concern regarding a reduction of properties. Three pultruders who supply the Cooling Tower Industry with structural shapes submitted samples for a water immersion analysis that has been underway with periodic testing for over one year. This paper gives an update of that study which is scheduled to last two years in addition to other water exposure data on pultruded FRP. This information will be useful for individuals designing cooling towers.
Complete Structural Rebuild of two Six Cell Crossflow Cooling Towers using all FRP Members Deano Sarantakos, Kentucky Utilities 2005
Abstract: This paper will detail the demolition and rebuild of two Marley 6,000 series cooling towers using all FRP members. It will begin with the inspection stage and include design, material, and mechanical options, history of the tower's maintenance as well as other towers on site, the company's purchasing procedures, pictures of demolition and construction, and performance data.
Large Scale Mechanical Equipment Replacement - Simple Steps for Success David M. Suptic, David M. Suptic P.E., LLC 2006
Abstract: Faced with multiple gear reducer failures on two large cooling towers, an international power generation facility replaced 28 sets of rear reduction drives and supporting structure with new, upgraded equipment. A description of the unique nature of this large scale equipment replacement project provides the reader with several key steps to insure success on construction products of a similar nature.
Westar Energy Cooling Tower Rebuilds David Spacek, Westar Energy, Inc. 2006
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to detail the activities which took place before and during the reconstruction of the (2) cooling towers of Unit #3 during the months of October and November of 2005. The paper identifies the activities and justification involved leading up to this replacement as well as the procedures performed to actually demolish and rebuild these (2) towers during a 5-week outage.
Wind Load Rated Packaged Cooling Towers Daniel S. Kelly, EVAPCO 2006
Abstract: Changes to national building codes and state building codes in California and Florida have given rise to special requirements for cooling towers to be able to withstand windload and seismic forces.
This paper will review the state and national codes as they apply to cooling towers with emphasis on what must be communicated to specifying engineers, owners and building inspectors with the goal of getting unit acceptance at the jobsite and also design of units that meet the code.
Etiwanda Cooling Towers, Repair or Replace Robert Fulkerson, Fulkerson & Associates, Inc 2007
Abstract: This paper discusses the structural problems and structural failures associated with the 43 year old cooling towers located at Reliant Energies' Etiwanda Power Plant located in Rancho Cucamonga, California. It describes the decision analysis procedure used to determine if the cooling towers should be repaired or replaced with new cooling towers. It also describes the necessary modifications required to improve the soundness and reliability of the structure.
Rehabilitation of Hyperbolic Cooling Towers at Electric Generating Station Kevin A. Michols, CTLGroup 2007
Abstract: Two concrete cooling towers serving a generating station exhibited concrete deterioration, steel corrosion, and water leakage. These towers needed major repairs that could be done only during scheduled outages.
Detailed structural analysis helped determine the maximum size, relative location, and sequencing of repair areas to ensure stability during repairs. Materials were chosen to withstand conditions within the towers.
Structural engineers and construction material consultants took part in condition evaluation, repair design and construction quality assurance. Repair crews removed deteriorated concrete and used specialty shotcrete materials for structural restoration. Durability enhancements included a waterproofing coating on the interior. They sealed tower surfaces and sealed cracks with epoxy. Meticulous QC testing and inspection helped ensure the project's success. After more than 15 years of continuous service, the repaired towers show no evidence of on-going deterioration or structural distress.
Living in a Material World Frank T. Morrison, Baltimore Aircoil Company 2007
Abstract: The proper selection of materials of construction is critical to ensuring long life, reduced maintenance, and operational reliability for evaporative cooling equipment. These functional needs must be balanced with the budgetary constraints on each project, both on a first cost and operating cost basis. This paper examines the wide range of materials currently available for components used in open and closed circuit cooling towers as well as evaporative condensers. Whether using galvanized steels, stainless steel, or FRP, we are living in a material world where the right material choices can provide long-term payoffs, but the wrong choices can be costly.
Construction Productivity Guidelines for Field Erected Cooling Towers James Baker, Composite Cooling Solutions, L.P. 2008
Abstract: Construction contacts on field erected cooling towers have two major types of cost: fixed and variable. Fixed costs are costs a contractor procures on a fixed price. Variable costs are items such as labor, supervision, equipment and job overhead. On many field erected cooling tower projects, the largest single area of cost overrun is in supervision and labor costs. This is not surprising, because supervision and labor are frequently the largest variable cost for a contractor. Within the past 20-years, there has been significant research in construction labor productivity which provides an increasing body of empirical data as to the effects of various factors on construction labor productivity within our industry.