Potable water production via desalination technique using solar still integrated with partial cooling coil condenser

Abstract

In the present study, an external partial cooling coil condenser has been integrated with ultra modified double slope solar still (UMDSSS) to improve the performance of the desalination unit for the production of potable water from Gomti river contaminated water. This integrated system is designed in such a way that it is capable to condense the entire vapor produced by the system. Experimental work has been conducted in summer and winter seasons at the period of 07:00 hr to 19:00 hr. The maximum measured ambient temperature and global radiation were 47.10 °C and 955 W/m2 at 14:00 hr with tilt angle 15°. The maximum hourly yield of the water production has been found as 1709 ml/h. The maximum daily yield was found to be 11499 ml/day in the summer season and 8212 ml/day in winter season with a system efficiency of 76.66% and 54.74%, respectively on daily basis. The physicochemical parameters are found in good agreement with standard data provided by EPA and WHO. Economic analysis has been carried out for 15 years life cycle and 102 days payback period. The annual costs of obtained potable water were Rs. 0.63 per litre and Rs. 2.06 per kWh, respectively.