Valves for Cooling Water Service
Cooling water — open or closed circuit — is found in almost every industrial plant. Corrosion, scaling, and microbiological fouling are the main concerns. Open circuit cooling towers use treated water with biocides and corrosion inhibitors. Closed-loop systems are typically less corrosive.
Pressure Range
1–16 bar
Temperature
10–50°C (open circuit); up to 90°C (closed loop)
Industries
Power plants, Refineries, Chemical plants
Key Properties — Cooling Water
- Open circuit: risk of MIC (microbiological corrosion), scaling, and corrosion
- Chlorine and biocide addition can affect elastomers
- Water chemistry (pH, TDS, hardness) determines material requirements
- Velocity: carbon steel acceptable above 1 m/s to prevent settling
- Closed loop: inhibitor-treated, lower corrosion risk than open circuit
Material Compatibility — Cooling Water
Ratings are indicative. Actual compatibility depends on concentration, temperature, velocity, and presence of contaminants. Always consult corrosion tables or a materials engineer.
| Material | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon Steel (WCB/A105) | Good | Standard for closed-loop cooling water. Open circuit: corrosion inhibitor program required. |
| Ductile Iron | Good | Widely used in cooling water systems — flanged to ASME/EN. |
| SS 316L | Excellent | For high-quality or process-critical cooling water systems. |
| Cupro-Nickel 90/10 | Good | Good for saline or brackish cooling water. |
| EPDM (seat/seal) | Excellent | Standard for cooling water butterfly and ball valve seats. |
| NBR | Good | Acceptable — verify compatibility with specific biocide and inhibitor chemicals used. |
Recommended Valves
Resilient-seated butterfly valve (EPDM)
Standard for cooling water isolation — PN 10/16, cost-effective for large bore
Carbon steel gate valve (ASME 150)
Mainline isolation on cooling water headers
Y-strainer
Essential before heat exchangers, condensers, and control valves
Dual-plate wafer check valve
Non-return on cooling water pumps — compact, low pressure drop
Valves to Avoid
Unlined cast iron valves in biocide-treated or chlorinated cooling water
Bronze/brass valves where zinc dezincification is a risk (low pH, high flow)
PTFE-seated ball valves where biofouling on ball seat is a risk
Special Considerations
Applicable Standards
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