Abstract: A header assembly comprises a plurality of substantially V-shaped, slotted troughs disposed in a substantially parallel relationship and interconnected perpendicularly to a manifold. Each trough comprises two substantially parallel, rigid side walls, two rigid end plates and two oblique walls which converge and attach to define an apex of the V-shaped trough. A plurality of alternating spacing elements and slots extends longitudinally along the length of the trough and equidistantly and obliquely along both oblique walls at the apex of the trough. Each trough contains a fiberglass-woven cord extending along the length of the trough and is disposed above the spacing elements and slots and in contact with both oblique walls.

Abstract: A plate for an evaporative heat exchanger is stamped from a laminate material comprising a thin sheet of light-weight, heat conductive, formable metal such as aluminum superimposed on and attached to a thin sheet of wicking material. Stamping the laminate material simultaneously cuts the plate into a substantially square, pre-determined size, forms a series of ribs and corresponding recesses into the plate and blanks square notches into each corner of the plate to define four edges. The ribs are spaced apart in a substantially parallel manner, appear substantially semicircular in configuration and extend longitudinally and substantially across the plate. A method to fabricate said plate is also described.