20100229953 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CLEANING HEAT TRANSFER STRUCTURES - The invention relates to an apparatus and method for the cleaning and/or disinfection of evaporative and/or convective cooling structures. The apparatus comprises means for drawing off predetermined volumes of one or more chemicals (optionally diluted with water) and pumping them into a corresponding number of dilution manifolds. Fluid-flow control means such as flow meters, non-return valves and control valves are employed to ensure that correct predetermined ratios/volumes of each fluid are drawn into the respective dilution manifolds, and to prevent undesired backflow of chemicals. The diluted or undiluted chemical agents then flow into a mixing manifold where they are mixed with other diluted or undiluted chemicals from one or more other dilution manifolds. The mixed chemicals are then delivered by means of an air gun or spray nozzle to clean packing material or other cooling structure components in situ within a cooling tower. Advantageously, any exothermic reactions are prevented until at least in or after the mixing manifold to increase safety. | 09-16-2010 |