Avovesijäähdytys

Avovesijäähdytys, also known as open-loop cooling, is a method of dissipating heat using a body of water as the cooling medium. In this system, water is drawn from a natural source such as a river, lake, or ocean, passed through a heat exchanger to absorb heat from a process or equipment, and then returned to the source. This is distinct from closed-loop cooling systems where the coolant is recirculated and its temperature is managed internally.

The primary advantage of avovesijäähdytys is its potential for high cooling efficiency due to the large thermal mass and often lower temperature of the natural water source. It can be a cost-effective solution for facilities located near suitable water bodies, as it eliminates the need for extensive cooling towers or chillers. Industries such as power plants, manufacturing facilities, and data centers have historically utilized this method.

However, avovesijäähdytys also presents environmental considerations. The discharge of heated water back into the source, known as thermal pollution, can negatively impact aquatic ecosystems by altering water temperature, reducing dissolved oxygen levels, and affecting marine life. Intake structures can also pose a risk to aquatic organisms through impingement and entrainment. Regulations and best practices are in place to mitigate these impacts, often requiring water treatment or temperature management before discharge. The availability and consistent temperature of the water source are also crucial factors for the reliability of this cooling method.