A makeup water pump is a pump used to add makeup water to a system, typically to replenish water lost through evaporation, blowdown, or leaks. Based on the provided reference, makeup water usually is added to the cooling tower basin. Therefore, in the context of the reference, a makeup water pump is the pump responsible for supplying this water to the cooling tower basin.
Understanding Makeup Water and its Purpose
In systems like cooling towers, water is continuously circulated. During this process, some water is lost.
- Evaporation: This is the primary mechanism for cooling but also causes water loss.
- Blowdown: Water is intentionally drained from the system to remove accumulated dissolved solids, which also requires replenishment.
- Leaks: Unintended water loss can occur.
To maintain the required water level and volume in the system, fresh water needs to be added. This fresh water is called "makeup water".
The Role of the Makeup Water Pump
The makeup water pump facilitates the delivery of this replenishment water from its source (like a municipal water supply, well, or storage tank) into the system it serves.
According to the reference, makeup water's destination is often a cooling tower basin:
"Makeup water usually is added to the cooling tower basin."
The pump provides the necessary pressure and flow rate to move the makeup water from the source to the basin, ensuring the system operates efficiently and maintains the correct water level.
Controlling Makeup Water Addition
The reference also mentions the control mechanism:
"Control of the water level in the cooling tower basin is via a level instrument of some description."
While the reference doesn't detail the pump's control, it implies that the makeup water flow (likely driven by the pump) is managed based on signals from a level instrument in the basin. This instrument, ideally located in a stable area like the pump basin, detects when the water level drops below a set point and signals for makeup water to be added, often by starting the makeup water pump or opening a valve in the pump's discharge line.
In summary:
A makeup water pump is a vital component in systems requiring continuous water replenishment, serving to deliver makeup water to points like the cooling tower basin as needed to maintain operational levels. Its function is directly tied to the process of adding makeup water described in the reference.
