Is it reasonable to design the circulating water tank as an above-ground tank in process design?
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In chemical engineering design, circulating water tanks are usually designed to be underground. Is it reasonable to change them to above-ground tanks?
The choice between above-ground or underground is related to the overall layout. If there is enough space, an underground tank is the best option. If space is limited, only above-ground ponds can be built, despite the high cost. It is unreasonable to leave the premise judgment of rationality unaddressed. What is suitable is reasonable.
In my opinion, underground tanks require high investment, and pump stations also need to be located below the ground surface； Ground-based ponds require low investment but occupy a large area. It is best to build it underground, as it is warm in winter and cool in summer underground.
Reply to 1# cdlll011: Are there any restrictions on placing it underground? Generally, circulating water tank designs include an underground section; just because it is designed as an underground tank, it doesn’t mean that the pump room has to be underground as well. The advantages of designing it as an underground tank include saving land space and utilizing geothermal heat for cooling; if everything were above ground, the cooling towers would likely have to handle a heavy load.
In addition to the reasons mentioned by the others, there is another one: the issue of water return. There are no major problems with returning water under pressure, whether above or below ground; however, if the water returns by gravity, it is best to do so underground.
If the water supply height is high, it’s possible to sit on the roof; however, this requires some additional structural work. But the head pressure required by the circulation pump decreases, which saves on electricity costs
The Japanese companies in our industrial park have very rational and efficient layout of their production processes; they make excellent use of land resources. In one of these facilities, a recirculation water tower is even located on the top floor of the building! The location of the circulating water tower should be determined based on local conditions!
All of the above answers are good; it can be installed above or below ground. If the amount of water used is relatively small, it can be placed on the roof, but it is necessary to consider the impact of evaporating water vapor on the surrounding environment, as well as factors such as land use and investment costs. Additionally, considerations should be given to the lengths of various pipelines such as those for water supply, drainage, and compensation water. A comprehensive evaluation is required.
It mainly depends on the temperature of the circulating water! If it doesn’t freeze, there’s no difference!