The system in the article uses a pipe loop underground in place of an evaporator. This uses less water/energy but require a higher first cost and very specific location requirements which is why the cooling towers are still more popular.

Some systems will have a closed system using water or ammonia as the intermediary medium. The coolant is pumped to an air handler on each floor where it cools a condenser filled with refrigerant.

Most chillers are just a big empty box where water is poured over the coils. The evaporating effect cools the medium inside and vents as steam or water vapour.