Cross flow gravity distributes the water through the nozzles uniformly across the fill material. Cross flow is a design in which the air flow is directed perpendicular to the water flow Air flow enters one or more vertical faces of the cooling tower to meet the fill material. Cross flow of air continues through the fill and thus past the water flow into an open plenum volume. Water flows through the fill by gravity. A distribution or hot water basin consisting of a deep pan with holes or nozzles in its bottom is located near the top of a cross flow tower.
Advantages of the cross flow design:
- Water distribution allows smaller pumps and Non-pressurized spray simplifies variable flow.
- Lower initial and long-term cost, mostly due to pump requirements.