18
maintenance
Weekly Visually inspect the cooling tower to assess general operating condi-
tions and for signs of microbial growth and appearance of debris, scale and
corrosion. Consult a knowledgeable water treatment professional to maintain
cooling tower hygiene.
Observe, touch, and listen to the tower. Become accustomed to its normal
appearance, sound, and level of vibration. Abnormal aspects relating to the
rotating equipment should be considered reason to shut down the tower until
the problem can be located and corrected. Observe operation of the motor, fan
shaft bearing and fan. Become familiar with the normal operating temperature
of the motor, as well as the sight and sound of all components as a whole.
Monthly (Inspect louvers, drift eliminators and basin trash screens and
remove any debris or scale which may have accumulated. Replace any dam-
aged or worn out components. Use of high-pressure water may damage the
eliminator and louver material.
Observe operation of the float valve. Depress the operating lever to make
sure that the valve is operating freely. Inspect the suction screen for plugging.
Remove any debris that may have accumulated.
Check for any buildup of silt on the floor of the cold water basin. Mentally note
the amount, if any, so future inspections will enable you to determine the rate
at which it is forming.
Every 3 months Lubricate fan shaft bearings.
While rotating equipment by
hand, grease the bearings with lithium based grease until a bead forms
around the seals. Mobil SHC 460 grease is recommended.
Semi-Annually If equipped, check the belt tension and condition.
If equipped, check Geareducer oil level. Shut down the unit and allow 5 min-
utes for the oil level to stabilize. Add oil if required.
If equipped, Geareducer models used on NC Fiberglass cooling
towers are designed for 5-year oil change intervals. To maintain five-
year change intervals, use only oil designed specifically for these
Geareducers. If, after five years, turbine-type mineral oil is used, the
oil must be changed semiannually. Refer to the Geareducer Manual
for oil recommendations and further instructions.
Annually Lubricate motor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Fan
motors with sealed bearings do not require lubrication maintenance.
Check to see that all bolts are tight in the fan and mechanical equipment region,
including the fan guard. Refer to component User Manuals for torque values.
Inspect the tower thoroughly, making maximum use of instructions given in the
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