What type of heat exchanger is commonly used in a cooling tower?

In a cooling tower, the type of heat exchanger typically employed is an indirect or coaxial heat exchanger. This design allows for efficient transfer of heat by separating the hot water from the cooling medium, usually air or another fluid. The primary function of a cooling tower is to dissipate heat from a cooling water system to the atmosphere, and using an indirect approach enhances efficiency by maximizing the surface area for heat exchange without mixing the cooling water with the ambient atmosphere.

Indirect or coaxial heat exchangers particularly excel in applications requiring effective thermal transfer while minimizing the chances of fouling or contamination, which is critical in a cooling tower setting. This minimizes maintenance needs and ensures optimal performance over time. Among the other types of heat exchangers listed, many either involve direct contact between different fluids or do not hold the same efficiency or effectiveness for the cooling tower application, making them less suitable for this particular function.