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Design was accomplished by communication between the owner NV Energy, the contractor Eagle Construction, and Galebreaker
The Challenge
It’s well documented that air coolers can lose performance during certain weather conditions, and the air cooler at Higgins was suffering from performance losses on windy days. In particular, mechanical issues and stresses caused by the wind was leading to fan and fan equipment failures as well as an overall drop in plant efficiency. In 2020, the owner Nevada Energy commissioned Galebreaker for their advice and expertise.
The Solution
After evaluating two wind speeds from the same direction and also checking the strength of the existing structural columns, a total of 10 Galebreaker ACC Wind Shields were installed on Higgins. M50 (50% solid : 50% permeable screens) were used with reinforced webbing strap edges to suit, zinc BZP ratchets & hooks to suit existing beams, and special design hooks for steel orientation. Protective material wraps and stainless steel safety wires were also included. The specifically designed fabric has a temperature range from -30°C to +70°C and Galebreaker designed the wind load based on the customer’s current ASCE Code, 120 MPH. Design was accomplished by communication between the owner NV Energy, the contractor Eagle Construction, and Galebreaker.
The Benefits
The Galebreaker screens have been in place now for over 2 years and the reports are that less stress and fan vibrations have been achieved, which will no doubt be leading to improved performance of the air cooler.
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