Case study summary
Snow accumulation must be considered when selecting acoustic treatment for chiller air intakes. We therefore conducted a like-for-like CFD comparison of our Hushflow intake splitter arrangement and a conventional acoustic-louvre configuration, assessing three snow-particle sizes under no-wind, 3 m/s and 8 m/s wind conditions.
The simulations show that the louvre geometry concentrates snow deposition across the horizontal blade matrix and, in wind-driven conditions, can create a dense collection pattern at the intake face.
In contrast, the Hushflow splitter arrangement distributes deposition across separate, deep airflow passages, helping to preserve multiple suction paths. These results support the Hushflow intake-silencer concept as a more robust solution for reducing the risk of snow bridging and progressive obstruction at the chiller intake. As with any outdoor intake system, appropriate winter inspection and maintenance remain essential.