What are heat removal devices used to transfer process waste heat to the atmosphere called?

• A. Heat exchangers
• B. Cooling fans
• C. Cooling towers
• D. Condensers

Answer: (C)

Heat removal devices that transfer process waste heat to the atmosphere are referred to as cooling towers. These towers are specifically designed to cool water that has been heated in industrial processes or by heat exchange systems. They work by allowing water to come into contact with air in a manner that promotes heat transfer, often through evaporation, which effectively reduces the water temperature before it returns to the cooling system or is discharged.

Cooling towers play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency of cooling systems in various applications, such as power generation, chemical processing, and HVAC systems. They are distinguished from other cooling methods, such as condensers, which are primarily used to condense refrigerants from vapor to liquid, and heat exchangers, which transfer heat between fluids without direct contact. Cooling fans facilitate airflow but do not actively remove heat to the atmosphere like cooling towers do.