What is the purpose of both a water softener and the addition of sulphuric acid to cooling tower water?

The purpose of both a water softener and the addition of sulphuric acid to cooling tower water is primarily focused on treating scaling. In cooling systems, mineral deposits, particularly calcium and magnesium, can precipitate out of the water when the water is heated or when its concentration increases due to evaporation. This precipitation leads to scaling, which adversely affects heat transfer efficiency and can cause blockages in pipes and equipment.

Water softeners work by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions for sodium ions, effectively reducing the hardness of the water and thereby minimizing scaling. On the other hand, sulphuric acid is often introduced to decrease the pH of the water, which can further help reduce the propensity for scaling by keeping these minerals in solution and preventing them from forming solid deposits.

Keeping scaling in check ensures that cooling systems operate efficiently and helps to avoid costly maintenance and downtime. Therefore, the correct answer to the question emphasizes the importance of managing mineral accumulation to ensure the longevity and efficiency of cooling tower systems.