Abstract
This study presents a strategy to operate the variable frequency drives (VFDs) fans on cooling towers in industry, by a simple data-driven model. The operation data of cooling tower is provided by a practical plant. Using the data, a statistical analysis model can be built to predict the outlet water temperature of the cooling tower. According to the model prediction, it is available to control the VFDs fans automatically and maintain the outlet cooling water at a steady temperature. The model-based operation of the virtual plant simulation is used to estimate how much energy can be saved, different from the original operation in the plant. The results of simulation show that there is large room for energy conservation. In order to check the reality of the statistical analysis model, the experiments of the model-based operation are also presented in this study. In a final target, the method would be applied to operate the industrial cooling tower fans in practical plant. The results show that the outlet water temperature will reach the set point and the error of model prediction is less than 0.2°C. According to preliminary estimates, compared with original operating mode, it can save 50%-90% energy by the method presented in this study.