Different Components of Air-Cooled Condensing Unit

Author: Hitesh Kadiya

An air-cooled condensing (ACC) unit is a direct cooling system that condenses turbine exhaust steam into the water through natural atmospheric air and air-cooled bundles. ACC units also come in A-shape or V-shape with different sizes

In simple words, ACC is the system that converts steam produced from the manufacturing power plant into water in cooling tubes. These cooling tubes are covered by atmospheric air.

ACC is mainly used at thermal electric power plants like coal, biomass, waste energy plant, etc. Over time, demand for air cooled condenser power plant has increased due to their insane water-saving capability. It uses very less water in comparison to other condensing systems, such as water condensing systems. This is why the ACC system is the best solution for locations with a scarcity of water.

Thermosag India Pvt Ltd is one of the reputed ACC manufacturers located in Gujarat, where you can find efficient and robust ACC systems for the power plant.

Now, we will discuss the components of ACC used in most power plants.

1. Air-cooled condensing bundles

Air-cooled condensing bundles are designed into a rectangular shape with the arrangement of porous media and radiator models at the opposite side of the airflow. It is used as a heat exchanger to reduce the temperature of exhaust steam. Condensing bundles are also known as condenser tubes.

2. Air supply system

An air supply system is installed into ACC to maintain the flow of natural ambient air flow into condensing tubes. The air supply system uses big electric fans to fill tubes with adequate. Most air cooled heat exchanger manufacturer usually deliver an air supply system along with ACC.

3. Exhaust duct system

Exhaust duct system is a sort of ventilation system to kick out unwanted and toxic material diluted in the ACC unit. Exhaust duct systems are equipped with fans or blowers and, in some instances, filters too. Exhaust ducts are made of polymer pipes to prevent the expansion of toxic gases into the building. It helps to avoid danger in power plants.

4. Condensate collection system

This component is used to collect the steam condensate produced during condensing process in electric power plants or any heat processing system. Some processing plant reuses this condensate for different purposes like power generation.

5. Vaccum-pumping system

Vacuum-pumping system is utilized to evacuate steam space and unwanted gases from the tubes to keep the process unaffected by toxic particles.

6. Cleaning system

ACC system is often found working at a lower potential than desired. The reason behind it is the environmental fouling covers on its fin surface. The cleaning system helps the ACC system restore efficiency by washing its tube. Thermosag India Pvt Ltd also provides a cleaning system to wash the ACC system.

7. Electric & instruments

An electric system is installed in the ACC system to operate different components like motors, electric fans, vacuum pumps, exhaust duct systems, etc. Apart from this, it uses different instruments like gearboxes, cooling tubes, and others.

Advantages of Air-Cooled Condensing Unit

  • Less water requirement.
  • Law maintenance in comparison to the water-cooled unit.
  • Longer life span.
  • Economical.

Conclusion:

While the water supplies on earth are draining rapidly, power plants and steam processing plants must think about an alternative option like the air cooled condensing unit. This system is the best economical and environment-friendly solution for power generators. ACC system directly releases the condensed heat into the ambient air. Also, it follows the dry cooling method. It means it requires low maintenance with a long-life span.