scope:

This guideline offers recommendations for the use of concrete in cooling towers. The recommendations are also applicable for basins and auxiliary structures exposed to wet environment of both cast in place and precast concrete construction, including prestressed construction. Construction methods and structural design procedures are not covered in these guidelines.

Basic recommendations for durability in fresh and potable water, wastewater and brackish/seawater environments are included in this standard. Technical requirements for design and construction in high sulfate, chloride or other aggressive environments should be referred to design consultants and concrete material specialists experienced in concrete design for special environments.

Where feasible, prior to proceeding with the design of cooling towers, the design consultants and material specialists need to obtain the make-up or recycled water chemistry from the end user. Where this is unknown, the most severe operating condition should be used by the design consultants and material specialists.

The technical recommendations outlined in this guideline are primarily to assure that the concrete designed and used in cooling towers possess characteristics for adequate durability. Requirements for the design strength of the concrete, reinforcing steel and other parameters should be referred to licensed professional engineers familiar with the design and construction of cooling towers.