Solar still is a device to desalinate impure water like brackish or saline water. It a simple device to get potable/fresh distilled water from impure water, using solar energy as fuel, for its various applications in domestic, industrial and academic sectors.
A solar still consist of shallow triangular basin made up of Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP). Bottom of the basin is painted black so as to absorb solar heat effectively. Top of the basin is covered with transparent glass tilt fitted so that maximum solar radiation can be transmitted in to the still. Ages of the glass are sealed with the basin using tar tape so that the entire basin becomes air tight. Entire assembly is placed on a structure made of MS angle. Out let is connected with a storage container. Provision has been made to fill water in the still basin. A window is provided in the basin to clean the basin from inside. Water is charged in to the basin in a thin layer.
Solar Stills have got major advantages over other conventional Distillation / water purification /de-mineralisation systems as follows:
1. Produces pure water
2. No prime movers required
3. No conventional energy required
4. No skilled operator required
5. Local manufacturing/repairing
6. Low investment
7. Can purify highly saline water (even sea water)
Solar stills is an useful devise to get fresh/ distilled water which is required in :
Industries | for industrial processes |
Hospitals and Dispensaries | for sterilization |
Garages and Automobile Workshop | for radiator and battery maintenance |
Telephone Exchange | for battery maintenance |
Laboratory Use | for analytic work |
Marshy and costal area | for industrial processes |