Sigma F series engineering data

C O O LI N G TOW E R and specifications

Sigma F Series — Contents 2

Engineering Data

Schematic 4
Support 5
Piping 7
Temperature Control 10
Environmental 11

Specifications / Base

Base 12
Thermal Performance 13
Construction 14
Fan Deck and Fan Cylinder 15
Mechanical Equipment 15
Fill, Louvers and Drift Eliminators 16
Hot Water Distribution System 17
Casing 17
Access and Safety 18
Cold Water Basin 18
Scope of Work 19

Specifications / Options

Cold Water Basin Options

Stainless Steel Cold Water Basin 20
Watertight Partition between Tower Cells 20
Basin Heater 20

Convenience and Safety Options

Fiberglass Stairway 21
Wood Stairway 21
Plenum Walkway 22
Ladder Extension 22
Ladder Safety Cage 22
Hot Water Basin Covers 22
Air Inlet Screens 23

Appearance Options
Architectural Casing 23
Cased Guardrail 23

Control Options
Control System 24
Variable Speed Drive 25
Vibration Limit Switch 26

Miscellaneous Options
Galvanized Steel Ladder 26
Fiberglass Ladder 26
Low Noise Tower 27
Fire-Retardant Fiberglass 27
Fan Cylinder Extension 27
Increased Wind and/or Earthquake Load 27
Premium Hardware 27
 Sigma F Series 3

The Sigma F Series is a field-erected, crossflow, Pages 12 through 19 indicate those paragraphs which
fiberglass-structure cooling tower designed to serve will result in the purchase of a cooling tower which
normal air conditioning and refrigeration systems as will not only accomplish the specified thermal
well as medium sized industrial loads. Evolving from the performance, but which will include normal operation and
crossflow concept of cooling tower pioneered by Marley maintenance-enhancing accessories and features. It will
in 1938, and incorporating over 65 years of design also incorporate those standard materials which testing
advancements, the Sigma F Series represents the current and experience has proven to provide best results in
state of the art in this cooling tower category. normal operating conditions.
This booklet not only relates the language to use in Pages 20 through 27 provide some paragraphs intended
describing an appropriate Sigma F Series cooling tower— to add those features, components, and materials that will
but also defines why certain items and features are customize the tower to meet the user's requirements.
important enough to specify with the intention of insisting Space does not permit definition and explanation of
upon compliance by all bidders. The left hand column of all of the possible options that can be applied to the
pages 12 through 27 provides appropriate text for the Sigma F Series. SPX Cooling realizes that you, the
various specification paragraphs, whereas the right hand purchaser, must be happy with the tower's characteristics,
column comments on the meaning of the subject matter and we are prepared to provide—or provide for—any
and explains its value. reasonable enhancement that you are willing to define
and purchase.
 Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Schematic 4

W OUT-TO-OUT OF TOWER
CL COLUMN CL COLUMN COLUMNCL
C DIAMETER FAN
3" A BAYS AT 4'-0" = L 3"

TOWER PLAN
TOP OF
FAN CYLINDER
Use this data for preliminary layouts only.
Obtain current drawing from your Marley
B FAN DECK sales representative.

CoolSpec™ web-based selection software,

H available at coolspec.com provides
Sigma model recommendations based on
13'-6" customer's specific design requirements.

BASE OF
TOWER COLUMNS

ENDWALL ELAVATION

Tower Dimensions
Model W L H A B C
F1211 29'-2" 16'-0" 19'-6" 4 6'-0" 144"
F1221 31'-2" 16'-0" 20'-6" 4 7'-0" 168"
F1231 31'-2" 20'-0" 20'-6" 5 7'-0" 168"
F1241 31'-2" 24'-0" 20'-6" 6 7'-0" 168"
F1251 35'-2" 24'-0" 20'-6" 6 7'-0" 216"
F1261 35'-2" 28'-0" 20'-6" 7 7'-0" 216"

NOTE
deck. Ladder extends 83⁄8" below the base of tower columns on
1 U se this bulletin for preliminary layouts only. Obtain current applications with a stainless steel cold water basin. Ladder stops at
drawings from your Marley representative. top of basin curb wall on applications with a concrete basin.
2 All table data is per cell. Tower installations with an elevation 20'-0" or more from the top
3 All tower installations require a minimum of 4'-0" from centerline of the fan deck to grade or roof level require a safety cage on the
of tower endwall column to any vertical obstruction at tower tower ladder in compliance with OSHA standards. Marley ladder
ladder location. Ladder can be located at any corner of the fan safety cages are available as an option.
 Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Support 5

A SPACES AT 4'-0" = L INTERMEDIATE BEAM

AIR INLET FACE

CASED ENDWALL FACE

OVERALL OF BASIN

MAKEUP
SUMP VALVE
CASED ENDWALL FACE
W

OVERFLOW

AIR INLET FACE

PRIMARY SUPPORT
COLUMN CL ANCHOR BOLT BEAM
PLAN
2 1/4" MAX.

NORMAL
GAGE

SECTION ELEVATION

Tower Dimensions Operating Weight lb

Model
note 4 A W L Single Fan Cell Each Cell Add

F1211 4 26'-6" 16'-0" 55810 51510

F1221 4 28'-6" 16'-0" 59300 54920
F1231 5 28'-6" 20'-0" 70180 65760
F1241 6 28'-6" 24'-0" 81410 77020
F1251 6 32'-6" 24'-0" 91070 86450
F1261 7 32'-6" 28'-0" 102800 98090

NOTE
4 Last number of model indicates number of cells. Change as
1 U se this bulletin for preliminary layouts only. Do not use
appropriate for your selection. Primary engineering data is per cell.
for construction. Obtain current drawings from your Marley
5 Maintain no less than 2'-0" of clear space at tower endwalls for
representative.
construction purposes. Louvered faces must have unobstructed
2 Operating weight is total wet weight including stainless steel
air supply. If obstructions exist nearby, consult your Marley
collection basin with 6" (recommended operating water level)
representative.
of water.
3 Purchaser to design, construct and furnish supporting steel
complete with 13⁄16" diameter holes for anchor bolts to suit the
general dimensions of current Marley drawings.
 Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Support 6
6" MIN A SPACES AT 4'-0" = L OPTIONAL PARTITION WALL
TYP FOR INDIVIDUAL CELL OPERATION
B AIR INLET FACE

IN TO IN OF CURB WALLS

CASED ENDWALL FACE

CASED ENDWALL FACE P
W

B AIR INLET FACE

SUMP
SEE NOTE 7
TOP OF BASIN CURB
PLAN TOP OF PARTITION WALL
TOP OF BASIN CURB 1'-0" 1'-4" 1'-6" 6" MIN
1'-6"
OPERATING WATER
LEVEL RECOMMENDED

SECTION B SECTION P

Tower Dimensions Operating Weight lb

Model
note 4 A W L Single Fan Cell Each Cell Add

F1211 4 26'-4" 16'-0" 39220 35920

F1221 4 28'-4" 16'-0" 41460 38160
F1231 5 28'-4" 20'-0" 48200 44860
F1241 6 28'-4" 24'-0" 55300 51980
F1251 6 32'-4" 24'-0" 61260 57880
F1261 7 32'-4" 28'-0" 68280 64800

NOTE
5 All anchor bolts complete with nut and washer will be furnished
1 U se this bulletin for preliminary layouts only. Do not use by others. Bolts are 3⁄4" diameter with 11⁄2" all thread projection.
for construction. Obtain current drawings from your Marley Material should be stainless steel.
representative. 6 Maintain no less than 2'-0" of clear space at tower endwalls for
2 Tower weight is total wet operating weight of tower only excluding construction purposes. Louvered faces must have unobstructed
water in the concrete basin. air supply. If obstructions exist nearby, consult your Marley
3 Purchaser to design, construct and furnish concrete basin complete representative.
to suit the general dimensions of current Marley drawings. 7 Purchaser must design, construct, and furnish sump(s) and
4 Last number of model indicates number of cells. Change as overflow(s) to suit requirements. The sump should be designed
appropriate for your selection. Primary engineering data is per cell. according to the pump manufacturer's recommendations.
 Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Inlet Piping Plan 2 7
C D C
TYP. SINGLE CELL CL FAN TYP. MULTICELL CL FAN
CL INLET CL INLET
CL COLUMN AND CL COLUMN AND
ANCHOR BOLT ANCHOR BOLT

CL INLET
F

TOWER CL
AND FAN
MOTOR
PIPING PIPING
LOADS SUPPORTED LOADS SUPPORTED PLAN
BY TOWER BY OTHERS
FAN CL TOWER
B DIAMETER
CROSSOVER PIPE F
CL INLET
MOTOR
FACE OF A DIA. GALVANIZED FLANGE
FLANGE IS 3/4" THICK. BOLT
CIRCLE CONFORMS TO 125 LB.
ANSI SPECIFICATIONS

BASE OF
TOWER COLUMNS
E NOTE
1 U
 se this bulletin for preliminary layouts only. Obtain current
drawings from your Marley representative.
2 Pumping head contributed by the tower is static lift E. Actual
pumping head will vary according to tower circulating gpm. Total
pumping head will be furnished at time of proposal.
3 If your application requires a bypass system, recommended location
STAINLESS CONCRETE is through the tower endwall into the plenum area. Review of the
STEEL BASIN BASIN OPTION system by SPX engineering is required.
OPTION 4 All header and riser piping to be furnished by others. A corrosion-
END ELEVATION resistant material or coating for piping is recommended. All inlet
piping loads, including thrust and seismic, outside of tower plan area
must be supported by others.

Dimensions
Tower Flow/Cell
Model gpm
A B C D E F

F1210 1050-5750 12" 10" 8'-0" 16'-0" 15'-107⁄8" 7'-6"

F1220 1050-5750 14" 12" 8'-0" 16'-0" 15'-11 ⁄8"
7
8'-6"
F1230 1320-7200 14" 12" 10'-0" 20'-0" 15'-117⁄8" 8'-6"
F1240 1500-8650 14" 12" 12'-0" 24'-0" 15'-11 ⁄8"
7
8'-6"
F1250 1500-8650 16" 14" 12'-0" 24'-0" 16'-07⁄8" 10'-6"
F1260 1850-10100 16" 14" 14'-0" 28'-0" 16'-07⁄8" 10'-6"
 Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Inlet Piping Plan 3 8

C D C
TYP. SINGLE CELL CL FAN TYP. MULTICELL CL FAN
H
CL COLUMN AND CL RISER CL COLUMN AND
ANCHOR BOLT ANCHOR BOLT

CL RISER
F

TOWER CL
AND FAN
MOTOR

PLAN

FAN CL TOWER H
F G FACE OF A DIA. GALVANIZED FLANGE
CL INLET RISER RISER CL CL FAN FLANGE IS 3/4" THICK. BOLT
MOTOR B DIAMETER CIRCLE CONFORMS TO 125 LB.
CROSSOVER PIPE CL 10 1/8" ANSI SPECIFICATIONS

26" x 26" INTERNAL

RISER SLEEVE / AIR
SEAL (SS BASIN)

E
CONCRETE
BASIN OPTION
BASE OF
TOWER COLUMNS

STAINLESS
STEEL BASIN
OPTION END ELEVATION SIDE ELEVATION

Tower Flow/Cell Dimensions

Model gpm A B C D E F G H
F1210 1050-5750 12" 10" 8'-0" 16'-0" 15'-0 ⁄4"
3
3'-3" 1'-7 ⁄8"
7
2'-6"
F1220 1050-5750 14" 12" 8'-0" 16'-0" 15'-13⁄4" 3'-6" 1'-77⁄8" 2'-6"
F1230 1320-7200 14" 12" 10'-0" 20'-0" 15'-1 ⁄4"
3
3'-6" 2'-7 ⁄8"
7
3'-6"
F1240 1500-8650 14" 12" 12'-0" 24'-0" 15'-13⁄4" 3'-6" 1'-77⁄8" 2'-6"
F1250 1500-8650 16" 14" 12'-0" 24'-0" 15'-2 ⁄4"
3
3'-9" 1'-7 ⁄8"
7
2'-6"
F1260 1850-10100 16" 14" 14'-0" 28'-0" 15'23⁄4" 3'-9" 3'-17⁄8" 3'-9"
 Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Inlet Piping Plan 4 9

C D C
TYP. SINGLE CELL CL FAN TYP. MULTICELL CL FAN
H
CL COLUMN AND CL RISER CL COLUMN AND
ANCHOR BOLT ANCHOR BOLT

CL RISER AND
HEADER
F

TOWER CL
AND FAN
MOTOR
PLAN

FAN CL TOWER H
G FACE OF A DIA. GALVANIZED FLANGE
F
CL INLET RISER RISER CL CL FAN FLANGE IS 3/4" THICK. BOLT
MOTOR B DIAMETER CIRCLE CONFORMS TO 125 LB.
CROSSOVER PIPE 10 1/8" ANSI SPECIFICATIONS
CL

E
CONCRETE
BASIN OPTION BASE OF
TOWER COLUMNS
1'-7"

STAINLESS
STEEL BASIN
OPTION END ELEVATION SIDE ELEVATION

NOTE
3 If your application requires a bypass system, recommended location is
1 U se this bulletin for preliminary layouts only. Obtain current drawings through the tower endwall into the plenum area. Review of the system
from your Marley representative. by SPX engineering is required.
2 Pumping head contributed by the tower is static lift E. Actual pumping 4 All header and riser piping to be furnished by others. A corrosion-
head will vary according to tower circulating gpm. Total pumping head resistant material or coating for piping is recommended. Do not support
will be furnished at time of proposal. riser dead load or operating load from inlet connection or tower
structure.
Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Energy Management 10

Cooling towers are usually selected to produce a specific

cold water temperature at the higher summertime wet-bulb Variable Speed Fan
temperatures. During the remainder of the year, the cooling
tower is capable of producing much colder water. Unless your Frequency modulation devices work well on induced draft,
system will benefit from the coldest possible water tempera- propeller fan cooling towers such as the Sigma. However, their
ture, you should consider controlling cold water temperatures to design must include the capability to lock out any critical fan
higher levels. You’ll also save energy by using such control. For speeds and the very low fan speed ranges.
greater insight on cold water temperature control, please read
“Cooling Tower Energy and its Management”, Technical Marley VFD drive systems are designed to combine abso-
Report H-001, available from your Marley sales representative lute temperature control with ideal energy management. The
or on the web at spxcooling.com. cooling tower user selects a cold water temperature and the
drive system will vary the fan speed to maintain that tempera-
Always control leaving water temperature by manipulating ture. Precise temperature control is accomplished with far less
the quantity of air that the fan moves through the tower. Varying stress to the mechanical equipment components. The improved
the quantity of water flow is not normally recommended and energy management provides fast payback. Indeed, many
can be harmful in freezing weather. You can alternately start utilities offer generous rebates for users having installed VFD
and stop single-speed motors to maintain water temperatures drives.
within an acceptable range. However, exceeding a total ac-
celeration time of 30 seconds per hour can overheat the motor,
causing the insulation to fail. Limiting the number of motor
starts, on the other hand, can produce significant variations in
the temperature of the water delivered to the process.

Increased flexibility can simplify your operating procedures

and save you money in the long run, both on operation and on
CAUTION
The cooling tower must be located at such distance and direction
maintenance. Here are two of the more popular options.
to avoid the possibility of contaminated tower discharge air
Two-Speed Motors being drawn into building fresh air intake ducts. The purchaser
should obtain the services of a Licensed Professional Engineer or
Two-speed motors improve operating flexibility by increas- Registered Architect to certify that the location of the tower is in
ing the number of potential operating modes. Users in northern compliance with applicable air pollution, fire, and clean air codes.
climates will find that the tower can carry winter loads at
half-speed; reducing fan power requirements by 85+% during
that time. Two-speed motors also help to control icing during
wintertime operation. See Marley Technical Report #H-003,
“Operating Cooling Towers During Freezing Weather,” avail-
able from your Marley sales representative or on the web at
spxcooling.com.

Normally, two-speed motors are provided in 1800/900

RPM, single winding configuration, which is the least expensive
two-speed option. They are also available in other combinations
including the more expensive double winding.
Sigma F Series — Engineering Data: Environmental 11

Sound Control As suggested in the aforementioned Technical Report, it

may also be advisable to specify a design wet-bulb temperature
Sound produced by a Sigma tower operating in an un- 1°F higher than normal to compensate for potential recircula-
obstructed environment will meet all but the most restrictive tion initiated by the enclosure. You’ll benefit from discussing
noise limitations—and will react favorably to natural attenuation. your project with your Marley representative.
Where the tower has been sized to operate within an enclosure,
the enclosure itself will have a damping effect on sound. Sound Keeping It Clean
also declines with distance—by about 5 dBA each time the dis-
tance doubles. Where noise at a critical point is likely to exceed Cooling towers are very effective air washers. Atmospheric
an acceptable limit, several options are available—listed below dust able to pass through the relatively small louver openings
in ascending order of cost impact: will enter the circulating water system. Increased concentra-
tions can intensify system maintenance by clogging screens
• In many cases, noise concerns are limited to nighttime, and strainers—and smaller particulates can coat system heat
when ambient noise levels are lower and neighbors are transfer surfaces. In areas of low flow velocity—such as the
trying to sleep. You can usually resolve these situa- cold water basin—sedimentary deposits can provide a breeding
tions by using two-speed motors in either 1800/900 or ground for bacteria.
1800/1200 RPM configuration—operating the fans at
reduced speed without cycling “after hours”. The natural In areas prone to dust and sedimentation, you should con-
nighttime reduction in wet-bulb temperature makes sider installing some means for keeping the cold water basin
this a very feasible solution in most areas of the world, clean. Typical devices include side stream filters and a variety of
but the need to avoid cycling may cause the cold water filtration media.
temperature to vary significantly.
Water Treatment
• The Marley Variable Frequency Drive automatically mini-
mizes the tower’s noise level during periods of reduced To control the buildup of dissolved solids resulting from
load and/or reduced ambient temperature without water evaporation, as well as airborne impurities and biologi-
sacrificing the system’s ability to maintain a constant cal contaminants including Legionella, an effective consistent
cold water temperature. This is a relatively inexpensive water treatment program is required. Simple blowdown may be
solution, and can pay for itself quickly in reduced energy adequate to control corrosion and scale, but biological contami-
costs. nation can only be controlled with biocides.

• Where noise is a concern at all times—for example, near An acceptable water treatment program must be compatible
a hospital—the best solution is to oversize the tower so with the variety of materials incorporated in a cooling tower—
it can operate continuously at reduced (1200 or 900 ideally the pH of the circulating water should fall between 6.5
RPM) motor speed. Typical sound reductions are 7 dBA and 8.0. Batch feeding of chemicals directly into the cooling
at 2⁄3" fan speed or 10 dBA at 1⁄2" fan speed. tower is not a good practice since localized damage to the
tower is possible. Specific startup instructions and additional
• Extreme cases may require inlet and discharge sound water quality recommendations can be found in the Sigma User
attenuator sections—however, the static pressure loss Manual which accompanies the tower and also is available
imposed by attenuators may necessitate an increase in from your local Marley sales representative. For complete water
tower size. This is the least desirable approach because treatment recommendations and services, contact your local
of the significant cost impact—and because of the ob- Marley sales representative.
struction to normal maintenance procedures.

Your Marley representative will help you meet your sound

requirements.

Enclosures

Occasionally, cooling towers are located inside architectural

enclosures for aesthetic reasons. Although Sigma towers adapt
well to enclosures, the designer must realize the potential
impact of a poorly arranged enclosure on the tower’s perfor-
mance and operation. The designer must take care to provide
generous air inlet paths, and the tower’s fan cylinder discharge
height should not be lower than the elevation of the top of the
enclosure. Obtain a copy of Marley Technical Report H-004,
“External Influences on Cooling Tower Performance” from your
Marley sales representative or on the web at spxcooling.com..
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 12

Specifications Specification Value

1.0 Base:

1.1 Furnish and install an induced-draft, ■ Your specification base establishes the type, configuration, base material,
crossflow-type, field-erected, structural and physical limitations of the cooling tower to be quoted. During the
fiberglass-framed, PVC film-fill, industrial- planning and layout stages of your project, you will have focused your
duty cooling tower of _____ cell(s), as attention on a cooling tower selection that fits your space allotment, and
shown on Plans. The limiting overall whose power usage is acceptable. Limitations on physical size and total
dimensions of the tower shall be _____ operating horsepower avoid the introduction of unforeseen operational
wide, _____ long, and _____ high to the and site-related influences. Specifying the number of cells, and the maxi-
top of the fan cylinder. Total operating mum fan hp/cell will work to your advantage.
horsepower of all fans shall not exceed
____ hp, driven by ___ @ _____ hp Your reason for specifying a crossflow type is that crossflow towers are
motor(s). Pump head, including static lift noted for the accessibility and maintainability of all operating compo-
above top of cold water basin curb (or nents. The spacious interior provides easy access to fill, drift eliminators,
top of supporting steel), shall not exceed all basin accessories—and is one of two primary accessways to the fan,
____ feet of water. Tower shall be simi- Geareducer, and other mechanical components.
lar and equal in all respects to Marley
Sigma F Series, Model _______. At the fan deck level, the hot water distribution basins are easily inspect-
ed and cleaned—while the tower is operating, if necessary. The mechani-
cal equipment can also be readily accessed from this level.

Except for the cold water basin, no counterflow tower component requir-
ing routine maintenance is as easily accessed. The confined areas that
typify counterflow designs, particularly of forced draft configuration can
make difficult work for maintenance personnel!
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 13

Specifications Specification Value

2.0 Thermal Performance:

2.1 The tower shall be capable of cooling ■ Your reason for purchasing a cooling tower is to obtain a continuing flow
_____ GPM of water from ____ °F to of cooled water as defined in the first paragraph at left. If the tower that
_____ °F at a design entering air wet- you purchase is incapable of performing as specified, then you will not
bulb temperature of _____ °F. The cooling have received full value for your money.
tower manufacturer shall guarantee that
the tower supplied will meet the specified Bear in mind that the size—and cost—of a cooling tower varies directly
performance conditions when the tower with its true thermal capability. This paragraph is intended to protect you
is installed according to plans. against either intentional or inadvertent undersizing of the tower by the
manufacturer. Judging the level of performance of a cooling tower on crit-
2.2 The purchaser will arrange for an on- ical processes is never easy, and the potential risk of a non-performing
site thermal performance test, to be cooling tower usually causes the requirement for a mandatory accep-
conducted in the presence of the manu- tance test to be very desirable.
facturer and owner, and under the super-
vision of a qualified, disinterested third Your contract with the successful bidder should establish the acceptable
party in accordance with CTI (Cooling remedies for missed performance, which might include:
Technologies Institute) ATC-105 stan-
dards during the first full year of opera- • T
 he addition of one or more cells of tower, as necessary, to bring the
tion. If the tower fails to perform within cooling tower to the specified level of performance. This is usually
the limits of test tolerance, then the cool- limited to the scope of work as defined in the specs, which means that
ing tower manufacturer will install addi- you (the owner) will have to pay for the additional basin, wiring, start-
tional cells and/or make such corrections ers, piping, etc.
as are agreeable to the owner and shall
pay for the cost of a retest. If the tower • T
 he reimbursement of a portion of the total contract price equal to the
still fails to perform as specified, then the percentage deficiency in performance.
manufacturer shall make such reimburse-
ments as are appropriate and agreeable Under no circumstances should you allow the manufacturer to repitch
to the owner to compensate for the per- the fans to increase motor brake horsepower above that shown in the
formance deficiency. proposal. That creates additional operating costs that will continue for
the life of the tower—and imposes no penalty on the manufacturer.

95ϒ

90ϒ

85ϒ
COLD WATER TEMP. (ϒF)

80ϒ

5ϒF RANGE
75ϒ 10ϒF RANGE
15ϒF RANGE

70ϒ

65ϒ

60ϒ

55ϒ
50ϒ 55ϒ 60ϒ 65ϒ 70ϒ 75ϒ 80ϒ
WET BULB TEMP. (ϒF)

Typical cooling tower performance curve.

 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 14

Specifications Specification Value

3.0 Construction:

3.1 The tower shall be capable of withstand- ■ The limiting water quality values indicated are those which are accept-
ing water having a pH of 6.5 to 8.0; a able for the normal materials of construction specified. If water of more
chloride content (NaCl) up to 750 ppm; a aggressive quality is anticipated please change hardware material
sulfate content (SO4 ) up to 1200 ppm; a requirement to series 316 stainless steel, or silicon bronze, as you may
calcium content (CaCO3) up to 800 ppm; have agreed upon beforehand with the Marley sales representative.
silica (SiO2) up to 150 ppm; and design
hot water temperatures up to 120°F If there is any doubt in your mind as to the grade of hardware that is
(48.9°C). The circulating water will con- appropriate to your water quality, please have a sample of it analyzed and
tain no oil, grease, fatty acids, or organic provide Marley with a copy of the analysis.
solvents.

3.2 The structural framework of the tower

shall be pultruded or molded fiberglass,
designed in accordance with ASCE
Structural Plastics Design Manual. All
allowable design values shall be factored
for wet service, temperature, and duration
in accordance with standard engineering
practices.

3.3 Basic design criteria shall be 30 psf Discuss higher design loadings with your Marley sales representative.
(1.44 kPa) wind load and 5%g seismic
load.

3.4 Multicell towers shall include stainless Multicell towers must have plenum partitions between cells. Otherwise,
steel partitions between cells in the fill air will be induced downward through an inoperative fan, bypassing the fill
areas, and fiberglass partitions in the ple- entirely. Without these partitions, part-load or off-season operation of the
num area. Partitions shall extend the full tower would be completely unsatisfactory.
height of the tower from the base of fill
to the underneath side of the fan deck. Fill partitions prevent the random migration of water from cell to cell, and
permit individual cell operation during reduced ambient or low load condi-
3.5 Column lines shall be on no greater than tions.
4'-0" (1.22 m) longitudinal centers, and
the base of all columns shall be firmly
anchored to series 304 stainless steel
base plates. Framing joints shall be made
with 1/2" diameter or larger series 300
stainless steel machine bolts. Critical
framing joints shall be augmented with
1.06" OD heavy wall fiberglass sleeves to
transmit loads.

3.6 No field gluing of joints, or any other The variable weather conditions encountered during on-site construction of
structural member, will be allowed. cooling towers does not result in the stable conditions of temperature and
humidity that assure proper bonding during the gluing process.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 15

Specifications Specification Value

4.0 Fan Deck and Fan Cylinder:

4.1 The fan deck shall act as a working plat- ■ The indicated design values for framing and decking not only give you
form for maintenance personnel. It shall assurance that the tower can withstand long term operation in a hostile
consist of 1 1/8" (28.5 mm) deep pul- environment—but that it will accept many years of inspection and mainte-
truded fiberglass interlocking panels, sup- nance traffic by your operating personnel.
ported by structural fiberglass joists on
3'-0" (914 mm) maximum centers. Fan
deck shall have a nonskid surface. Deck
shall be designed for a uniform live load
of 60 psf (2.9 kPa) or a concentrated
load of 400 pounds (181 kg). Mid-span
deflection at 60 psf (2.9 kPa) loading
shall not exceed 0.17" (4.3 mm).

4.2 Fan cylinders shall be molded FRP. They Fiberglass-reinforced polyester fan cylinders provide the close tip clear-
shall be anchored to the fan deck struc- ances and smooth airflow contour necessary for good fan performance.
ture to provide a consistently stable oper- The inert, noncorroding nature of FRP assures that these characteristics
ating shroud for the fan. will persist.

5.0 Mechanical Equipment:

5.1 Fan(s) shall be propeller-type, incorporat- ■ Standard fan drives of other manufacturers may use V-belts. Considering
ing heavy duty blades of high strength, the size of fans involved—and the horsepower applied—this is not good
inert fiberglass reinforced epoxy material. design practice. Geareducer drive is far more reliable and trouble free,
Blades shall be individually adjustable and is currently offered as an option by most other cooling tower manu-
and replaceable. Fan(s) shall be driven facturers.
through a right angle, industrial-duty, oil-
lubricated, geared speed reducer. Speed The primary means of capacity control on cooling towers is by cycling
reducers employing pulleys and belts will fans on and off, or through a variety of speed changes. Such cycling can
not be accepted. stretch V-belts, and can reduce their service life significantly.

5.2 Motor(s) shall be ____ hp maximum, Unless otherwise specified, motor speed will be 1800 RPM in 60 Hertz
TEFC, 1.15 service factor, and specially areas and 1500 RPM in 50 Hertz areas. If you prefer the operating flex-
insulated for cooling tower duty. Speed ibility of two-speed operation, please specify the RPM to be 1800/900
and electrical characteristics shall be (1500/750 in 50 Hertz regions). Other speed ranges are also available,
1800 (1800/900) RPM, single winding,
___ phase, ___ hertz, ___ volts.
The driveshaft turns at the motor speed and is, therefore, most sensitive
5.3 Motor shall be located outside the fan to operational imbalance. Stainless steel manufacture assures that the
cylinder at the fan deck, and shall be con- driveshaft will not become unbalanced as a result of corrosion. Stainless
nected to the speed reducer by a tubular steel yokes are available at extra cost, although not normally necessary.
stainless steel, dynamically balanced
driveshaft with heavy galvanized yokes
and neoprene flexible coupling elements.

➠
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 16

Specifications Specification Value

5.4 A stainless steel oil fill and drain line shall The extended oil line to an oil gauge pro-
extend from the gear reducer to the vicin- vides a safe and convenient means of
ity of the motor, and shall be equipped checking the level of oil in the Geareducer.
with a bronze-bodied oil level sight-glass
gauge. Fans of the size used on large cooling tow-
ers are applied at speeds and horsepowers
5.5 The complete mechanical equipment that generate considerable torque—and
assembly for each cell shall be supported structural tubular steel resists this torque
by a rigid, unitized support that resists very effectively. The Marley torque-tube
misalignment between the motor and the design assures that all of the mechanical
gear reducer. Support shall be heavy- equipment remains aligned, and that the
wall tubular steel, to which heavy plate rotating fan is properly positioned within the
platforms for the motor and gear reducer fan cylinder. Hot-dip galvanizing after fabrica-
have been welded and the assembly tion assures that all steel surfaces will be
shall be hot-dip galvanized after fabrica- heavily coated with zinc for long-term protection against corrosion.
tion. The support assembly shall also
provide an inlet connection for incoming Even in aggressive water conditions, the heavy construction of the unit-
hot water, and shall serve as a crossover ized support normally precludes the need for stainless steel. It is avail-
pipe to deliver water to both sides of the able, however, at extra cost.
tower.
The value of a 5 year mechanical equipment warranty speaks for itself.
5.6 The mechanical equipment assembly shall Except for the motor, all of the mechanical equipment on a Marley tower
be warranted for no less than five (5) is made by Marley. Cooling tower vendors who purchase commercial
years. This warranty shall cover the fan(s), fans, gear boxes, driveshafts, etc. may require that you deal directly with
speed reducer(s), driveshaft(s), couplings, those commercial suppliers for warranty satisfaction.
and the unitized supports. Oil seals shall
be warranted for eighteen (18) months
with replacement oil seals furnished
through the mechanical warranty.

6.0 Fill, Louvers and Drift Eliminators:

6.1 Fill shall be film-type, 15 mil (0.38 mm) ■ Louvers integral with the fill keep the flowing water within the confines
thick, thermoformed PVC, with louvers of the fill. The separate external louvers used by others permit water to
formed as part of each fill sheet. Fill shall escape the fill and form ice or produce an unsightly situation adjacent to
be suspended from stainless steel struc- the tower. If you plan to use your tower in the wintertime, particularly for
tural tubing supported from the upper free cooling, integral louvers will put your operating concerns to rest.
tower structure, and shall be elevated
above the floor of the cold water basin to Vertical blade-type eliminators, as well as misdirected cellular types,
facilitate cleaning. Air inlet faces of the cause much of the fan power to be wasted in turning the horizontal flow
tower shall be free of water splashout. of air vertical for its exit through the fan cylinder. This power is, of course,
not available for contribution to thermal performance.
6.2 Drift eliminators shall be 15 mil
(0.38 mm) thick PVC, formed as part of Drift rate varies with design water loading and air rate, as well as drift
each fill sheet, triple-pass, cellular type, eliminator depth and number of directional changes. A drift rate of
and shall limit drift losses to 0.005% or 0.001% is readily available in standard configuration without premium
less of the design water flow rate. The cost. If a lower rate is required, please discuss with your Marley sales
final pass of the eliminators shall direct representative.
the air toward the fan.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 17

Specifications Specification Value

7.0 Hot Water Distribution System:

7.1 The mechanical equipment support/ ■ Gravity-flow distribution basins are a feature of crossflow type towers.
crossover pipe for each cell shall be These basins are out where they can be easily inspected—even cleaned—
equipped with a flange for the attachment while the tower is in operation. Spray systems of counterflow towers,
of customer supply piping. Inlet and bolt being sandwiched between the top of the fill and the drift eliminators, are
circle dimensions shall conform to 125# extremely awkward to access and maintain, and require the system to be
flange specifications. The crossover pipe shut down for cleaning.
shall deliver water through PVC perforat-
ed pipes to two open, stainless steel, hot
water basins at the fan deck elevation.
Water shall exit these basins to the fill by
gravity through metering orifice type poly-
propylene nozzles situated in the basin
floor. Nozzles shall be easily removable
and replaceable.

7.2 Water inlet system shall be self-balancing, The Sigma F Series is designed such that the supply piping to the tower
requiring no special valving for flow regu- will not appear outside the tower. Not only does this enhance the tower's
lation from side-to-side of tower. architectural appearance, but it also aids the self-balancing aspect of the
Sigma F Series water distribution system.
7.3 Water distribution system design shall
allow water flow reductions down to 50% This feature of the Sigma F Series tower allows you to vary the water cir-
of design flow without modifications or culation rate as an added means of controlling tower performance capac-
adjustments. ity during reduced-load or off-season operation.

8.0 Casing:

8.1 The endwalls of the tower, as well as the ■ 8 oz casing panels are also available at reduced cost, but the sturdier 12
sidewalls above the air inlet elevation to oz panels are strongly recommended.
the top of the distribution basin, shall be
cased with 12 oz/sq ft horizontally cor- Also, if fire-retardant casing is preferred, it would be appropriate to add
rugated FRP panels attached to tower the following sentence to the end of paragraph 8.1 at left: “Casing pan-
columns with stainless steel self-tapping els shall have a flame spread rating of 25 or less."
fasteners and self-sealing washers.
Panels shall be lapped to shed water Heavy duty architectural casing panels are also available, as described
inward to the tower. Vertical joints shall on page 23.
be lapped and sealed watertight. Casing
ends at tower corners shall be covered Architectural treatment can also be enhanced by extending the casing up
with pultruded FRP angles. to the top of the fan deck guardrail. This is described on page 23.

8.2 In the water-washed endwall fill areas,

inner casings of 16 gauge 304 stainless
steel shall also be provided.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 18

Specifications Specification Value

9.0 Access and Safety:

9.1 Single cell towers shall include a 33" ■ The access doors on other towers may be unreasonably small.
(838 mm) wide by 61" (1.55 m) high Specifying the size of the door will cause those bidders to take excep-
molded FRP access door in one endwall tion, alerting you to a potential maintenance headache.
casing for access to the interior of the
tower. Casing access door shall be Good maintenance practice requires periodic access to the top of the
hinged and equipped with a latch oper- tower to inspect the distribution basins, as well as the structural integrity
able from both inside and outside the of the fan deck, fan cylinder, and fan—especially the fan blade securing
tower. Multicell towers shall have an hardware. And there are no induced-draft cooling tower designs that are
access door in both endwalls, and shall immune to this need! Please beware of those manufacturers who sug-
include a hinged door in each transverse gest otherwise.
partition to give free access through the
tower.

9.2 The top of the tower shall be equipped For the comfort and safety of your oper-
with a sturdy 42" (1067 mm) high fiber- ating personnel, the Sigma F Series
glass guardrail system, complete with top includes a ladder and guardrail of the
rails, intermediate rails, and toe-boards quality and design indicated—and we
conforming to OSHA standards. Guardrail strongly recommend that you require
posts shall be extensions of the tower it of all bidders! Portable ladders
columns. and other “make-do” access
means are inappropriate for equip-
9.3 One endwall of the tower shall be ment of this size and complexity.
equipped with a 20" (508 mm) wide
aluminum vertical ladder, supported by
hot-dip galvanized steel brackets through-
bolted to the endwall structure. Ladder
shall rise from the cold water basin level
to the top of the fan deck guardrail, and
shall be designed and installed in confor-
mance with OSHA standards. A horizon-
tal-swing, gravity-closing safety bar shall
be provided across the ladder opening at
the fan deck.

10.0 Cold Water Basin:

10.1 A large galvanized, rectangular access ■ This basic specification assumes that the tower will be erected over a
door shall be located on both end pan- concrete basin at grade level. If the tower is to be installed on an elevat-
els for entry into the cold water basin. ed supporting platform, the stainless steel cold water collection basin
Rectangular panels are shall be provided indicated on page 20 should be included in the specifications.
for access to the fan plenum area to
facilitate inspection and allow mainte-
nance to the fan drive system

10.2 Concrete partitions, if required between

cells in the cold water basin, shall be
installed in accordance with manufac-
turer's drawings. Tower installer shall seal
between tower cell partitions and basin
cell partitions.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Base 19

Specifications Specification Value

11.0 Scope of Work:

11.1 The cooling tower manufacturer shall be ■ Please be clear in your specifications and inquiry documents regarding
responsible for the design, fabrication, the full scope of work expected. That will help assure that your bid com-
and delivery of materials to the project parisons will be made on as equal a basis as possible—and
site, and for the erection of the tower will help to avoid any misunderstandings during
over supports provided by others. Unless the execution and implementation of the con-
otherwise specified, all supply and return tract.
piping, pumps, controls, and electrical
wiring will be outside the cooling tower
manufacturer's scope of work.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 20

Specifications Specification Value

Cold Water Basin Options

Stainless Steel Cold Water Basin: ■ Marley basins are used to permit the installation of towers on elevated
platforms or foundations.
10.1 Replace paragraph 10.1 with the follow-
ing: Include a cold water collection basin This is the simplest of several cold water basin designs available for the
constructed of 12 gauge series 304 Sigma F Series towers. If preferred, a 10 gauge welded stainless steel
stainless steel, through-bolted and sealed basin can be installed.
to prevent leakage. A depressed, side
outlet sump of series 304 stainless steel
having a 1⁄4" (6.4 mm) thick faceplate
drilled for a standard class 125# ASME
flange connection will be included. A
removable stainless steel 1⁄2" mesh debris
screen shall cover the top of the sump.
An appropriately sized (4" diameter or
larger) stainless steel standpipe overflow
shall be provided. The standpipe shall be
removable for flush-out cleaning of the 
basin. A float-operated, mechanical make-
up valve shall also be included, installed
adjacent to the endwall access door.

Watertight Partition between Tower ■ In addition to the normal partition function of preventing air bypass
Cells with Stainless Steel Cold (page 14), this option allows you to use each partitioned cell of your
Water Basin Option: tower independently. This is valuable where a single multicell tower is
serving several separate systems—or where winter operation may require
10.2 Replace paragraph 10.2 with the less than full tower capability.
following: Stainless steel watertight parti-
tions shall be provided between cells in
the cold water basin. They shall be sealed
watertight to the partitions in the fill and
plenum areas of the tower. Cold water
basin partitions shall have weir openings
allowing free flow of water between cells.
Weirs shall be equipped with bolt-on,
gasketed cover plates to prevent water
passage when required.

Basin Heater: ■ The basin heater components described at left represent is recommend-
ed for a reliable automatic system for the prevention of basin freezing.
10.3 Add the following paragraph in the Cold
Water Basin section: Add the following The ambient air temperature that you fill in should be the lowest 1% level
paragraph in the Cold Water Basin sec- of winter temperature prevalent at site.
tion: Provide a system of electric immer-
sion heaters and controls to prevent
freezing of water in the collection basin
during periods of shutdown. The system
shall consist of one or more stainless
steel electric immersion heaters. A NEMA
4 enclosure shall house a magnetic
contactor to energize heaters; a trans-
former to provide 24 volt control circuit
power; and a solid state circuit board
for temperature control and low water
cutoff. A control probe shall be located
in the basin to monitor water level and
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 21

Specifications Specification Value

temperature. The system shall be capable

of maintaining 40°F water temperature
at an ambient air temperature of ____
°F. Wiring of the heaters and the heater
components shall be the responsibility of
the purchaser.

Convenience and Safety Options


Fiberglass Stairway: ■ Although they are not necessary for routine operation and maintenance,
stairways do provide a safe and comfortable means of access to the top
9.3 Replace paragraph 9.3 with the of the tower that is often overlooked in the initial cooling tower purchase.
following: One endwall of the tower shall And fiberglass construction provides long term service and stability. It
be equipped with a structural fiberglass also is architecturally compatible with the basic tower construction and
stairway rising from grade (roof) to the appearance.
fan deck. Treads, stringers and risers
shall be molded integrally for strength
and stiffness. Stairs shall be 41.5°, 30"
(762 mm) wide, with 8" (203 mm) rise
and 9" (229 mm) run. Treads shall have a
nonskid surface. Landings shall occur at
6'-0" (1.83 m) elevations. Guardrails shall
be 2" tubes, through-bolted to 3" tube
stairway columns. Stairway foundation
shall be by others, designed in accor-
dance with drawings provided by the
cooling tower manufacturer. The stairway
shall conform to OSHA standards.

Wood Stairway: ■ Where atmospheric conditions at the jobsite are not aggressive, the
treated wood stairway may be chosen because of its lower cost.
9.3 Replace paragraph 9.3 with the follow-
ing: A 30" (762 mm) wide, column sup-
ported, 45° stairway with 8" rise and run
of treated Douglas Fir shall be provided
at the tower endwall rising from grade
(roof) to the fan deck. Stair columns shall
be nominal 4"x4". Guardrails shall be
nominal 2"x4". The upper guardrail shall
have an eased edge for the protection of
operating personnel. Stairway foundation
shall be by others, designed in accor-
dance with drawings provided by the
cooling tower manufacturer. The stairway
shall conform to OSHA standards.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 22

Specifications Specification Value

Plenum Walkway: ■ This option permits freedom of movement for inspection or maintenance
within the tower without the need for wading boots or tower drainage.
9.1 Add the following to the end of this It also helps prevent maintenance personnel from damaging submerged
paragraph: Provide a 30" (762 mm) mini- accessories in the cold water basin (such as sump screens, probes,
mum wide walkway extending from one basin heaters, etc.).
endwall access door to the other through
the length of the tower. Walkway shall The need for guardrails where basins are deeper than 4’-0” (1.22 m) is
be constructed of fiberglass components an OSHA requirement.
with a nonskid surface on floor mem-
bers, and the top of the walkway shall
be above the cold water basin overflow
level. If the cold water basin is deeper
than 4'-0" (1.22 m), the walkway shall be
equipped with fiberglass guardrails.

Ladder Extension: ■ Many towers are installed such that the base of the tower is
2’-0” (610 mm) or more above the roof or grade level. This makes it dif-
9.4 Add the following paragraph in the ficult to get up to the base of the attached ladder. The ladder extension
Access and Safety section: Provide a alleviates this problem. Marley's ladder extensions are available in stan-
ladder extension for connection to the dard 5’-0” (1.52 m) and 11’-0” (3.35 m) lengths, and will be field-cut to
base of the ladder attached to the tower fit.
casing. This extension shall be long
enough to rise from the roof (grade) level
to the base of the tower. Anchorage and
lateral bracing of the ladder extension
shall be by others.

Ladder Safety Cage: ■ To meet OSHA standards, towers whose fan decks are 20’-0” (6.10
m) or more above roof or grade, and which are equipped with ladders,
9.3 Add the following to the end of this are required to have safety cages surrounding the ladders. Their use on
paragraph: A heavy gauge galvanized lower elevation towers is a matter of choice.
steel safety cage shall surround the lad-
der, extending from a point approximately
7'-0" (2.13 m) above the base of the lad-
der to the top of the guardrail surround-
ing the fan deck.

Hot Water Basin Covers: ■ These covers are designed to keep leaves and debris out of the circulat-
ing water system. They also serve to suppress algae formation by shield-
7.4 Add the following paragraph in the Hot ing the incoming hot water from direct sunlight.
Water Distribution System section: The
distribution basins shall include stain-
less steel covers. These covers shall be
designed to withstand 40 psf (1.92 kPa)
live load, and shall be easily removable for
maintenance.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 23

Specifications Specification Value

Air Inlet Screens: ■ In wooded or windy areas, these screens help to keep leaves or blowing
debris out of the cooling tower and circulating water system.
6.3 Add the following paragraph in the Fill,
Louvers and Drift Eliminators section:
The air inlet faces of the tower shall
be covered by 1" mesh stainless steel
welded wire screens. Screens shall be
secured to stainless steel frames, and
shall be removable.

Appearance Options

Architectural Casing: ■ This is an architecturally pleasing, heavy duty casing that provides an
appearance similar to shiplap siding. See cover photo.
8.1 Replace paragraph 8.1 with the
following: Tower endwalls, as well as
exposed hot water basin sides above
the louvered face, shall be cased with
horizontally-installed, pultruded fiberglass
panels. Tower corners shall be finished
with pultruded fiberglass angles.

Cased Guardrail: ■ Extending the casing to the top of the fan deck guardrail presents a
clean architectural appearance by shielding the mechanical equipment
8.1 Add the following to the end of this and a major portion of the fan cylinder from view. It also offers a higher
paragraph: The casing and corner treat- degree of protection for operation and maintenance personnel.
ment shall extend to the full height of the
guardrail described in paragraph 9.2. The
additional wind loading imposed by this
exposure shall be accounted for in the
tower's structural design.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 24

Specifications Specification Value

Control Options

Control System: ■ If it is your opinion that the control system for the cooling tower should
be part of the tower manufacturer’s responsibility, we are in wholehearted
5.7 Add the following paragraphs in the agreement with you. Who better to determine the most efficient mode
Mechanical Equipment section: Each cell and manner of a tower’s operation—and to apply a system most compat-
of the cooling tower shall be equipped ible with it—than the designer and manufacturer of the cooling tower?
with a UL listed control system in a
NEMA 3R or 4X outdoor enclosure capa-
ble of controlling single-speed or two-
speed motors as required, and designed
specifically for cooling tower applications.
The panel shall include a main fused dis-
connect with an external operating han-
dle, lockable in the off position for safety.
Across-the-line magnetic starters or solid
state soft-start starters as required shall
be controlled with a thermostatic or solid
state temperature controller. Door mount-
ed selector switches shall be provided to
enable automatic or manual control and
wired for 120VAC control. Control circuit
to be wired out to terminal blocks for field
connection to a remote vibration switch
and for access to extra 120VAC 50VA
control power, overload trip alarms and
remote temperature control devices. The
temperature controller shall be adjustable
for the required cold water temperature.
If a thermostatic controller is used it shall
be mounted on the side of the tower with
the temperature sensing bulb installed in
the cold water basin using a suspension
mounting bracket. If a solid state temper-
ature controller is used the controller will
be door mounted on the control panel.
The temperature controller will display
two temperatures, one for outgoing water
and the other for set point. Water tem-
perature input shall be obtained using a
three-wire RTD with dry well in the outlet
water piping and wired back to the solid
state temperature controller in the control
panel.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 25

Specifications Specification Value

Fan Motor Variable Speed Drive:

Marley All Weather ACH550 System ■ Marley VFD drive systems are designed to combine absolute temperature
control with ideal energy management. The cooling tower user selects a
6.4 Add the following paragraph in the cold water temperature and the drive system will vary the fan speed to
Mechanical Equipment section when maintain that temperature. Precise temperature control is accomplished
VFD is used with customers Building with far less stress to the mechanical equipment components. The
Management System: A complete UL listed improved energy management provides fast payback. Indeed, many utili-
Variable Speed Drive system in a NEMA ties offer generous rebates for users having installed VFD drives.
1 indoor, NEMA 12 indoor or NEMA 3R
outdoor enclosure shall be provided. The
VFD shall use PWM technology with IGBT
switching and integrated bypass design.
VFD out put switching shall not cause
mechanical issues with gearbox teeth or
drive shafts. The VFD shall catch a fan spin-
ning in the reverse direction without tripping.
The panel shall include a main disconnect
with short circuit protection and external
operating handle, lockable in the off position
for safety. The VFD system shall receive a
speed reference signal from the Building
Management System monitoring the tower
fluid temperature. As an option to receiving
the speed reference signal from a build-
ing management system, the drive must
have the capability to receive a 4-20 ma
temperature signal from an RTD transmitter.
The VFD shall have an internal PI regulator
to modulate fan speed maintaining set point
temperature. The drive's panel display shall
be able to display the set-point temperature
and cold-fluid temperature on two separate
lines. The bypass shall include a complete
magnetic bypass circuit and with capabil-
ity to isolate the VFD when in the bypass
mode. Transfer to the bypass mode shall be
manual in the event of VFD failure. Once the
motor is transferred to the by-pass circuit
the fan motor will run at constant full speed.
The bypass circuit will not modulate ON and
OFF based on fluid temperature. The appli-
cation must be able to handle very cold fluid
temperatures while the VFD is in a by-pass
mode. Operator controls shall be mounted
on the front of the enclosure and shall con-
sist of start and stop control, bypass/VFD
selection, Auto/Manual selections, manual
speed control. To prevent heating problems
in the fluid cooloer fan motor and to assure
proper gear reducer lubrication the VFD sys-
tem shall de energize the motor once 25%
motor speed is reached and cooling is no
longer required. The fluid cooler manufac-
turer shall supply VFD start-up assistance.
Tower vibration testing throughout the speed

➠
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 26

Specifications Specification Value

range is required to identify and lockout any

natural frequency vibration levels which may
exceed CTI guidelines.

Vibration Limit Switch: ■ Unless specified otherwise, an IMI

Sensors mechanical vibration switch
5.5 Add the following paragraph in the will be provided. The requirement for
Mechanical Equipment Section: A vibra- manual reset assures that the cooling
tion limit switch in a NEMA 4X housing tower will be visited to determine the
shall be installed on the mechanical cause of excessive vibration.
equipment support and wired to the shut-
down circuit of the fan motor starter or
VFD. The purpose of this switch will be to
interrupt control power voltage to a safety
circuit in the event of excessive vibration
causing the starter or VFD equipment to
de-energize the motor. It shall be adjust-
able for sensitivity and include a means to
reset the switch.

Miscellaneous Options

Galvanized Steel Ladder: ■ This option is for those customers who either prefer steel ladders, or
whose atmospheric conditions at the cooling tower location would be
9.3 Change paragraph 9.3 to read as fol- detrimental to aluminum.
lows: One endwall of the tower shall be
equipped with an 18" (457 mm) wide
hot-dip galvanized steel vertical ladder,
supported by hot-dip galvanized steel
brackets through-bolted to the endwall
structure. Ladder shall rise from the cold
water basin level to the top of the fan
deck guardrail, and shall be designed
and installed in conformance with OSHA
standards. A horizontal-swing, gravity-
closing safety bar shall be provided
across the ladder opening at the fan
deck.

Fiberglass Ladder: ■ This option is for those customers who either prefer fiberglass ladders,
or whose atmospheric conditions at the cooling tower location dictate its
9.3 Change paragraph 9.3 to read as fol- use.
lows: One endwall of the tower shall be
equipped with an 18" (457 mm) wide
fiberglass vertical ladder, supported by
hot-dip galvanized steel brackets through-
bolted to the endwall structure. Ladder
shall rise from the cold water basin level
to the top of the fan deck guardrail, and
shall be designed and installed in confor-
mance with OSHA standards. A horizon-
tal-swing, gravity-closing safety bar shall
be provided across the ladder opening at
the fan deck.
 Sigma F Series — Specifications: Options 27

Specifications Specification Value

Low Noise Tower: ■ Sound produced by a Sigma tower operating in an unobstructed envi-
ronment will meet all but the most restrictive noise limitations. Where
1.1 Add the following at the end of para- sound levels may be considered critical, however, low noise levels can be
graph 1.1: The cooling tower shall be achieved by any of several techniques. Please discuss your requirements
quiet operating, and shall produce an with your local Marley sales representative.
overall level of sound no higher than ____
dBA at the critical location indicated on
the Plans.

Fire-Retardant Fiberglass: ■ This option will affect the the standard casing panels, the plenum parti-
tions between cells, the fan cylinders, and the optional fiberglass stairway
3.7 Add the following paragraph in the flights and landing panels.
Construction section: All fiberglass com-
ponents in the cooling tower shall have a
flame spread rating of 25 or less.

Fan Cylinder Extension: ■ Extended fan cylinder heights are useful where it is important to dis-
charge the cooling tower's leaving plume at a certain elevation. This may
4.2 Add a third sentence in paragraph 4.2 be to avoid recirculation, or to keep the plume above a nearby structure.
to read as follows: Overall fan cylinder
height shall be 10 feet above the fan
deck level.

Increased Wind and/or Earthquake ■ If your geographic location dictates the application of higher wind and/or
Load: seismic loads, please discuss with your local Marley representative and
change paragraph 3.3 to read appropriately. Please also ask for revised
concrete basin or supporting steel drawings from Marley which reflect
the higher load requirements.

Premium Hardware:W ■ Marley can provide hardware materials suitable for all aggressive water
conditions, including salt water. Please discuss with your Marley repre-
sentative and change specification paragraphs appropriately.
 Sigma F series
E N G I N E E R I N G DATA A N D S P E C I F I CAT I O N S

SPX COOLING TECH, LLC

7401 WEST 129 STREET FSIG-TS-23 | ISSUED 3/2023
OVERLAND PARK, KS 66213 USA ©2008-2023 SPX COOLING TECH, LLC | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
913 664 7400 | spxcooling@spx.com In the interest of technological progress, all products are subject to
spxcooling.com design and/or material change without notice.
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