Gas turbines are the engines behind much of the world’s electricity, powering everything from industrial facilities to municipal grids. But when summer heat or sustained demand causes temperatures to spike, turbine performance can quickly decline. This not only affects output but can also increase fuel usage, strain components, and shorten the lifespan of critical parts.
In this guide, we break down how heat impacts turbine operations and explore the most effective cooling systems to maintain peak performance. Whether you’re evaluating air-based cooling methods or exploring advanced evaporative media, this resource will help you make informed decisions for your facility.
Gas turbines rely heavily on ambient air to maintain combustion and overall efficiency. When the air entering a turbine is hot, it becomes less dense, reducing the oxygen content needed for optimal fuel combustion. As a result, the turbine generates less power and must work harder to meet output requirements.
During hotter months, these issues become more pronounced. The air is not only warmer but also harder to compress, which strains the turbine and increases the risk of wear and breakdowns. A robust cooling system counteracts this by reducing inlet air temperature and improving the overall density of air flowing through the turbine.
Air-based cooling remains one of the most accessible and cost-effective ways to manage turbine performance in hot environments. Two major systems dominate this space: evaporative cooling and chiller systems.
Evaporative cooling works by drawing hot air across water-saturated media. As the air passes over the surface, water evaporates and cools the air by as much as 30 degrees Fahrenheit. This cooler, denser air then flows into the turbine, improving combustion and output.
This method is particularly energy efficient. It consumes significantly less electricity than a chiller system and uses only water to drive the cooling process. In addition to its low operating costs, evaporative cooling naturally filters out dust and airborne particles, which helps protect turbine components from long-term damage.
For facilities with ample water availability, evaporative cooling offers a reliable and environmentally responsible way to sustain turbine performance throughout the year.
Chiller systems use a closed-loop process involving chemical refrigerants and a heat exchanger to cool the air before it enters the turbine. These systems can precisely control air temperature, even in the most extreme heat, making them highly effective in demanding industrial environments.
However, chiller systems require more electricity and ongoing maintenance than evaporative solutions. They also rely on refrigerants, which pose environmental risks if leaks occur. Still, for facilities that demand tight control over turbine output regardless of temperature swings, chiller systems can be a worthwhile investment.
While evaporative cooling is ideal for gas turbines, its benefits also extend to the facilities that support them. Industrial buildings, with their high ceilings, large volumes, and poor insulation, often become heat traps. This not only affects machinery but also compromises worker safety and productivity.
Three evaporative cooling methods are commonly used in industrial settings, each with its own strengths.
This is the most straightforward form of evaporative cooling. Hot outdoor air is pulled through water-saturated pads, causing evaporation that cools the air. The cooled, humidified air is then distributed into the facility. This method is especially effective in hot, dry climates where adding moisture improves overall comfort and air quality.
Indirect cooling systems use a heat exchanger rather than allowing the cooled air to contact water directly. Hot air flows over tubes with water on the outside, and the resulting evaporation cools the tube walls. The cooler internal air is then circulated into the building. Because the moisture stays separated from the airstream, this approach is better suited for humid climates where excess humidity can be problematic
Combining the benefits of both direct and indirect methods, two-stage systems begin by precooling the air through an indirect process. The already-cooled air is then further chilled as it passes over evaporative media. This two-phase approach enhances cooling power while limiting added humidity, making it effective in both dry and humid environments.
Whether you’re using air cooling to improve turbine performance or to manage the temperature inside your facility, the benefits are clear.
To get the most from an evaporative cooling system, high-quality media is essential. Kuul PowerGT™ evaporative media is engineered specifically for the demands of gas turbines. It offers outstanding durability, reduced pressure drop, and superior cooling capacity.
Facilities that use Kuul media report longer maintenance intervals, better mass airflow, and improved combustion efficiency. The result is not only consistent power production but also fewer unexpected shutdowns and a more predictable emissions profile.
For industrial cooling, Kuul’s Control™ technology delivers the same reliability and performance. Built with premium materials, it withstands demanding environments and keeps your facility cool without relying on chemical refrigerants or energy-intensive systems.
When gas turbines and industrial facilities operate in high-heat conditions, cooling isn’t optional—it’s essential. With the right system in place, you can protect equipment, improve performance, and create a safer working environment.
Explore how Kuul’s evaporative cooling solutions can keep your turbines running strong and your facility cool, no matter how high the temperature climbs.
Contact the Condair team to determine the ideal humidification solution for your needs. Our experts will help you assess your needs and recommend the best system for optimal performance.
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