Analyzing the impact of vacuum level on the energy and exergy efficiency of a unique solar desalination unit driven by concentrating solar power technology

Abstract

An in-depth analysis of a unique desalination unit based on concentrated solar energy was conducted in this study. A lab scale prototype was built and tested under variable vacuum levels between 0.3 bar and 0.7 bar to see how vacuum levels influence system performance. Results reveal a direct relationship between vacuum level and distillate production. Vacuuming of 0.7 bar produced a maximum distillate of 2520 ml/h. An average energy efficiency of 65.2 % was found for the brine heater. Moreover, the average exergy efficiencies were 88.2 % for the condenser, 17.2 % for the brine heater, and 41.6 % for the flash chamber. In order to determine the relationship between vacuum level and various system responses, mathematical models were also developed. Moreover, performance indicators such as energy utilization factor, gain output ratio, and specific energy consumption were also evaluated. The proposed device has a maximum energy utilization factor of 2.4, a maximum gain output ratio of 19.2, and a minimum specific energy consumption of 280.7 kWh/m3. The outcomes of this research are expected to provide valuable insights into the impact of vacuum level on solar-powered desalination systems and contribute towards advancing renewable energy into desalination systems.