vertical menu icon
  1. Home
  2. »
  3. News
  4. »
  5. Holding a meeting on the basics of ownership management in family businesses with the company’s…

 

Cellulose Pad

Evaporative cooling is the simplest and one of the most efficient ways to create cooling. In this method, our body dissipates heat through sweating (evaporation of moisture from the skin).

(Figure 1): Cellulose pad (Figure 1)

Evaporative systems use different evaporative media for air cooling, and the cellulose pad is one of the most efficient media. A cellulose pad is made of multiple layers of thin, corrugated kraft paper with high water absorption that has been reinforced. The paper is saturated with resin compounds to prevent decay and decomposition when in contact with water. The uniform and dense structure of the cellulose pad provides a larger contact area between water and air compared to traditional media (e.g., wood shavings), and results in a more uniform air velocity. Advantages of cellulose pads include increased cooling, prevention of water droplet carryover, reduced dust entry, and decreased transmission of harmful respiratory bacteria into the incoming air (Figure 1).

Cellulose Pad Maintenance

Maintenance of evaporative cooling systems (cellulose evaporative coolers) at the beginning and end of the hot season and during use is important. One of the most critical components is the evaporative medium (cellulose pad), which must be maintained according to local water hardness and outside air quality.

Research shows that frequent on/off cycling of evaporative systems beyond normal levels increases scale formation on cellulose pads. Also, using saline, recycled, chlorinated, or mineral-rich water causes deposits on pads and ultimately reduces cooling efficiency.

In regions where water hardness exceeds ppm 250, using an appropriate water softener is recommended to optimize system performance and extend the life of the evaporative medium (cellulose pad).

When inspecting the cellulose pad, signs such as deformation of pad structure, gaps between layers, or blockage of its pores indicate it is time to replace the pads (Figure 2). Otherwise, remove accumulated dirt and dust from the pads. If cleaning is not performed properly and on time, airflow and pad lifespan and performance will decrease (Figure 3).

Figure (3) Figure (2)

Key Maintenance Guidelines for Cellulose Pads

  • The pad water distributor (water spreader) is the most important part and its outlets must remain unblocked to ensure uniform water distribution over the cellulose pad.
  • Use a soft brush to remove dust and water scale from the cellulose pads.
  • Cleaning should be done when pads are completely dry; brush gently following the corrugation direction to avoid damage.
  • After brushing and cleaning the cellulose pad, run the water pump so remaining dust and deposits are washed off and settle in the tank. Then drain the tank water (preferably recycled water) and refill with clean water. Ensure the tank and the lower part of the pad are fully emptied of previously stored water.

Figure (4)

Note: Never use phosphate-based descalers or chemical detergents to remove scale from cellulose pads. Chemical cleaners corrode the pad and drastically reduce its lifespan. Cellulose pads are self-rinsing to some extent, and most scale forms on the first outer layer of the pad.

  • The cooler’s water distribution system must be properly leveled so water is evenly distributed across the pad; dry spots cause localized scaling.
  • Ensure appropriate water flow distribution across the entire pad structure.
  • At dusk, when evaporative cooling is no longer required, turn off fans and pumps for 30 minutes to let pads dry completely; daytime drying reduces risk of scale build-up and algae growth.
  • The cooler sump water should be replaced every two to three weeks depending on water hardness and quality.
  • Place the cooling system out of direct sunlight or provide shading to extend pad life.
  • To prevent fungal and algal growth on pad surfaces, switch off the water distribution for 45–70 minutes every 24 hours to allow full drying.
  • After the cooling season or before long storage periods, drain the system water, wash and dry the pads, remove scale, then reinstall the clean, dry pads.
  • Covering the pads to avoid direct sunlight also helps prolong pad life.
  • Using a water softener is essential in areas with water hardness above ppm 250.

The cellulose pads produced by Kolansell are the only cellulose pads approved by Energy.

Sources:

  • Munters Corporation
  • Product information from Kolansell
  • Internal technical articles, Sales Engineering Unit, Energy Company
Scroll To Top Call Now Button