Accepted Manuscript

Tubular solar–energy collector integration: Performance enhancement of classical

distillation unit

Omar Bait, Mohamed Si-Ameur

PII: S0360-5442(17)31630-4
DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2017.09.110
Reference: EGY 11604

To appear in: Energy

Received Date: 10 April 2017

Revised Date: 6 September 2017
Accepted Date: 24 September 2017

Please cite this article as: Bait O, Si-Ameur M, Tubular solar–energy collector integration: Performance
enhancement of classical distillation unit, Energy (2017), doi: 10.1016/j.energy.2017.09.110.

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 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
TUBULAR SOLAR–ENERGY COLLECTOR INTEGRATION: PERFORMANCE
ENHANCEMENT OF CLASSICAL DISTILLATION UNIT

Omar Bait∗, Mohamed Si–Ameur

LESEI Laboratory, University of Batna 2, Faculty of Technology, Department of Mechanical
Engineering, 05000 Batna, Algeria

Abstract

The current study discusses a new design regarding embedded simple distiller to a solar collector

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cylindrical shape. Investigating the performance improvement is based on solving transit thermal
energy balance equations which can predict temperatures in different locations of the still. Introducing
the pre–heater system was also modeled using a third ordinary differential equation for water as a

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working fluid. In order to validate the obtained findings, Dunkle’s model was employed and outputs
compared to previous works. Results demonstrated that the collector contributes appreciably in
augmenting the basin water temperature higher than a simple still case and both couples of distillate
amounts and instantaneous efficiencies were respectively (~ 2.77 kg/m2, ~ 4 kg/m2) which an accorded

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enhancement of ~ 31% and (~ 40%, ~ 80%) for the passive and active targets. The total cost of the
collector materials was estimated to be about 63 US Dollars which represents a cheap price. Moreover,
a critical issue was examined around heat losses of the proposed solar heater. At this stage, used
empirical correlations available in literature enabling UL prediction (overall heat loss coefficient) of

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the former and flat–plate collector method has been performed. It was reached that the TSC can
perform against a FPC with lower heat loss. Other parameters such as painted receiver, absorbtivity–
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emissivity effects and environmental circumstances have all influenced the TSC performance were
also analyzed.

Key words: Double slope solar still, Cylindrical solar collector, Yield, Efficiency, Cost estimation.
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Nomenclature
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Roman symboles Greek symbols

A surface, (m2) α absorptivity, -

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AB absorptance, - ε emissivity, -
cp specific heat capacity, (J/kg °C) η efficiency, -
hc convective heat transfer coefficient, (W/m2 °C) σ Stefane–Boltzmann constant, (= 5.6697
he evaporative heat transfer coefficient, (W/m2 °C) × 10-8 W/m2 K4)
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hfg latent heat of vaporization, (J/kg)

hr radiative heat transfer coefficient, (W/m2 °C) Subscripts
Ht solar radiation, (W/m2)
m mass, (kg) b basin
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P pressure, (N/m2) c convection

Ph hourly distilled water production, (kg/m2) e evaporation
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Q heat flux, (W) g glass

t time, (s) r radiation
T temperature, (°C) w water

1. Introduction

Due to environmental issues and prohibiting the use of dangerous fossils fuels, a special emphasis was
given to renewable and sustainable energy sources. Water plays an important role in human life which
constitutes an unbreakable nexus for survival of human race and other beings. A better water taste and
quality are strongly claimed, so purification methods have been invented for this reason. Distillation
regarded as one of the attractive processes which can be employed for this purpose. Using a free and

∗
Corresponding Author: obait80@yahoo.fr
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available solar energy is the operating principal of a solar water vaporizer device or usually termed
solar still. The item ‘Solar Still’ has been introduced to the large dictionary of thermal engineering a
long time ago through a lot of magnificent scientific contributions. Different existing processes which
can be done in this solid solar enclosure were elucidated with help of numerical and experimental
attempts. Theory of the created system was built on the absorption of incident solar radiation concept
coming from the sun (source of heat), transform it into heat in order to evaporate enough the fluid
(generally salt water) and the final product (distilled water) resulting from condensation of vapors in
contact with a cooled face. Several desalination and water treatment technologies have recently been
performed and reviewed as follows: reverse osmosis (RO) [1–3], multi–stage flash distillation (MSF)
[4–6], multi–effect distillation (MED) [7–9], membrane desalination (MD) [10–12], vapor

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compression (VC) [13–15] and electrodialysis (ED) [16–18]. All these procedures have the same
purpose of overcoming pure water necessity. Direct solar distillation devices can be configured in
passive and active modes. In passive categorization, solar still system convert solar rays by own
capacity whereas, active one, a supplementary heating source dispositive is connected to the still and

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helps improving heating up process. The scheme diagram in Fig. 1 below shows briefly the diversity
of solar thermal collectors planted around the world with which solar desalination device can be
embedded. Solar collector applications in terms of flatted plate photovoltaic thermal collector (PV/T)

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[19–24], evacuated tube collector (ETSCs) [25–27], solar concentrators (SCs) [28–30], solar air
collectors (SACs) [31–33] and solar water heaters (SWHs) [34–36] have been developed. From the
latter (i.e. SWHs), solar water heating system cylindrical type has taken part from this family and it
has been considered for this study. Most of coupling solar systems dedicated for purifying water are

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suffering of many drawbacks such as costs–effective issue, complicated mechanism and periodic
maintenance. Searching for desalinating techniques available in dry and harsh environments and costly
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affordable, were conducted.
The historical survey shows insight periods of conducted small–scale solar desalination stills enhanced
using solar heaters. In the past generation, Sodha et al. [37] exhibited an economic analysis through an
active distillation device under India climatology conditions, in order to predict the effect of adding a
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solar panel collector on still performance. Solar still in an active mode was studied by Singh and
Tiwari [38]. Forced circulation between the distiller and the solar collector as well as water flowing
over the condensing area, have adopted. Morcos [39] investigated the effect of several techniques such
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as: integrating solar still to a heating collector, the black dye of the basin, on the solar still yield.
Whereas, single and double roof solar distillation unit was experimentally performed by Kumar and
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Tiwari [40] and also under water circulation upon the solar still covered area as well. Tripathi and
Tiwari [41] analyzed the influence of water layer thickness on a still coupled flat solar collector. The
study encompasses also a comparison between passive and active methods. The aforementioned
methodologies were recently renewed and greatly developed. Top research studies have been done on
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embedded solar stills to solar collectors as supplement enhancer of heat and mass transfer. A single
slope still category connected an evacuated solar collector was experimented by Kumar et al. [42].
Theory of the set (solar still – solar heater) has also been conducted. Dwivedi and Tiwari [43] have
studied experimentally a double sloped active still was chosen to perform under passive mode. This
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study has also provided heat exchange modelization of the whole system. Singh et al. [44] conducted
series of experimental measurements of a PV thermal connected double slope solar distillator under
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passive and active circulation modes. In the same research area, Sethi and Dwivedi [45] have analyzed
the exergy of a double solar still coupled to solar panel. All organs were branched to pump to form
active water flowing. Sampathkumar and Senthilkumar [46] have chosen operating a coupled
traditional still solar–energy water heating system as a multi–functional production. However, Singh et
al. [47] reported a conventional solar still combined to solar collector evacuated mode. To investigate
the whole system, a theoretical model was developed. A desalination mechanism was experimentally
equipped using some technological materials for well forecasts of distillate water productivity. Omara
et al. [48] have also boosted their work by a mathematical modeling. Sandeep et al. [49] have
proposed to investigate a modified solar still single slope single–basin to double inclined glasses. The
purpose of the study is to compare performances of the abovementioned systems and seeking for an
optimality of the modified configuration. Kumar and Tiwari [50] manufactured passive and active
solar desalination systems. The first one is simple still while the second one is regarded to be a hybrid
target which contains a conventional still connected to a PV/T. In the same context of invention of
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hybrid solar desalination system, Gaur and Tiwari [51] focused on optimizing the number of solar
water collectors using heat and mass mathematical modeling. Field–testing of a conventional solar
system was opted to be combined in series with set of collectors which was carried out by Raju and
Narayana [52]. The main goal of this study is to examine the influence of solar collectors number upon
the desalination unit performance. Eltawil and Omara [53] analyzed a set of solar technology
equipments effect on a simple solar distiller. The whole conception was tested under passive and
active configurations. Using a tubular still as a desalting unit was coupled parabolic concentrator for
improving distillate has been designed and tested by Elashmawy [54] under Saudi Arabia climate.
Saeedi [55] analytically assessed optimization of a thermal photovoltaic solar still. The study is based
on expressing energy balance of different still’s components. Outputs reported are with concordance

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of antecedent works. Massive materials hybrid PV/T collector coupled single slope solar still [56] and
N identical PV/T collectors integrated double slope distiller [57] were simultaneously studied
experimentally and theoretically to show a significant yield improvement. A solar collector PV panel
was combined to solar water basin and simulations have been performed based on effect of varying the

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vertical height of the still on its performance [58]. 30% of distillate productivity was achieved and 15
cm of height is the best targeted value of the design parameter. Other novel conducted and reviewed
desalination plants were suggested here [59–64]. Indeed, solar desalting applications do not confine

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upon active small–scales stills, they surround further large–scales multi–effects solar desalination units
[65–68] which can give higher amount of distilled yield. As mentioned in Table 1 below, some of the
above undertaken researches explicited and reported findings were well depicted. Valuable works have
been exhibited here and recent techniques aimed to enhance the still enclosure performance were

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obviously displayed. From the forgoing, generally, integration of such a solar collector along with a
solar still target can extremely improve the distillation unit performance (heat and mass transfer).
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Requirement to hot water utilizations is widely demanded. High percentage of flat–plate collectors or
concentrators is currently in increase. Therefore, fort attempts have been conducted to overcome issues
related to high cost devices. The present tubular solar collector is not new in terms of manufacturing
but it undergone a design improvement. Past proposed structural system of the cylindrical solar heater
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has a straight absorber tube where the novel one is a copper coiled channel in which water circulates.
The following preview shows some conducted works on simple and compact solar collector
cylindrical shape design from past and present generations. Vincze [69] described a solar–heating
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cylindrical shape process. The study encompassed the utility of the use of circular collector instead of
flat–plate one. An experimental collector set–up was performed. Experiments showed a good
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performance namely: better accumulated heat, well water flow indoor the device and insulating
reservoir associated to the solar collector was among significant candidate in good function of the
heater. The experimental investigation of Nahar and Malhotra [70] upon cylindrical heater type shows
the following: the former was under tests during a year and the main findings were established as
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follows: (i) high quantity of water can be heated up between 50 and 60 °C at the end of the day,
moreover, (ii) water temperature of 35 °C can be maintained to the next morning and the enhanced
collection area can receive about 30 % of incident solar flux against flatted one. The contribution of
Badran [71] describes a novel constructed design of the cylindrical solar collector. The fabricated
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system was chosen to perform with inclination of 45 degrees with natural water flow. 85 % is the
achieved efficiency. Saroja et al. [72] modeled using instantaneous mathematical equations and they
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further solved with the help of a numerical approach based upon dimensionless parameters. Outputs
are agreed with past experiments. To the best knowledge of the authors, the current system is
spontaneously studied recently. Al–Madani [73] carried out experimentally a cylindrical solar heater
for hot water production purpose. It was found that the system can reach 27.8 °C of entrance–exit
temperatures difference. Efficiency under Bahrain climatic conditions was predicted to be 41.8 %.
Ogueke et al. [74] have also shown in experimental attempt the performance of a built solar heating
cylindrical view. The current application was tested for may flow rates values. It was found that for a
maximum flow rate of 10.8 kg/h the attained efficiency was 57.09 %. A new attempt of Ogueke and
Anyanwu [75] to enhance the current system by introducing sheets acting as reflectors. The improved
target performance was compared to same system without reflectors. Findings are impressive which
show an enhancement of the outlet temperature from 50 °C till 68 °C and efficiencies from 40 % till
70 %. The (2E) Energy–Exergy numerical model was performed by Rasekh and Farzaneh–Gord [76]
for a solar collector circular–cylinder solid wall. The proposed model was solved on the base of
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several factors data. Numerical analyses were found to be in concordance with experiments. On the
other hand, cylindrical solar air heater was developed by Abdullah and Bassiouny [77]. Indeed, other
form of solar water heater was conducted i.e. a conical shape has been constructed [78].
To the best knowledge of authors, this novel active unit of distillation (the couple: solar still – solar
heater tubular view) has not been performed previously and here is currently under analyses.
Therefore, the aim of this contribution is to exhibit a new and simple designed solar desalting
approach based upon integrating a solar distillation unit to a cylindrical shape solar collector.
The current research has taken the following chronology: the first part was dedicated for an
introduction in which some submitted novelties were adopted, followed by a historical survey of
cylindrical solar collectors. Choice of the current solar heater tubular shape and layout of the assembly

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distillation unit coupled the suggested solar heating system was highlighted in sections 2 and 3
respectively. Mathematical theory of passive and active solar devices has been shown in section 4.
Methodology and solution procedure are in section 5. Overall findings have been exhibited in
numerical results and discussion section. Cost estimation of the proposed target is in section 7 and the

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main reached outcomes were presented in section 8 of concluding remarks.

2. Choice of the current pre–heater

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The solar–heating mechanism (Fig. 2) is a circular tube shaped made from high quality of cylindrical
glass material -1- (i.e. good optical parameters (absrbtivity and emissivity)) [72,88] to receive and
transmit maximum solar flux (high transmitivity propriety) and prevents them to get outside (low

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reflectivity propriety). The tubular transparent collector in turn houses a painted black helically tube -
2- to enhance solar irradiation absorption. Pivoting position of the inner tube inside the annular space
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of the glass is guaranteed by insulated flatted circular plates -3- in which holes were effectuated
allowing the coiled tube to penetrate through. Extremities of the inner tube were equipped by rubbers -
4- to prevent air getting inside after the vacuum operation. The present system was chosen to be the
thermal enhancer for the distiller during its distillation process. Characterized by its shape, the heater
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does not need to be tilted to the horizontal due to its simple design and reduced number of components
unlike flat–plate solar collectors. Furthermore, it has low considerable heat losses to the surrounding,
friendly environmental, low manufacturing and maintenance costs.
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3. Process description of the coupled solar systems (solar still – solar collector)
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As pointed out earlier in Fig. 2, the solar water collector can take its emplacement on metallic supports
as a supplement heat energy source for heating water containing a distillation unit. Thus, consider a
double upward slating glass cover solar still integrated cylindrical water heater as illustrated in Fig. 3
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in a 3D view. In details, the couples’ (distillation target – solar heater cylindrical shape) organs are
clearly designed and enumerated in Fig. 4a as well. In the same Fig. 4a, the whole system was
depicted frontally and back showing the solar collector mounted the solar still by mean of insulated
ducts and a gate valves ‘1’ and ‘2’ allowing in/out of saline water between the distiller mechanism and
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the solar collector. The double sloping glass covering area has a rectangular blackened water basin;
inside it troughs have been mounted for distillation collection. The water incoming the basin was with
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help of an outside supply conduit, it occupants basin field till a certain depth. When the process gets
finished, the still system has been equipped with a drainage pipe to evacuate the stagnated water. The
entire device is supported over metallic legs. An external tank is devoted for collecting distillate. The
closed water cycle was guaranteed by right and left conduits on lateral sides. The legend of
enumerated elements was placed below the Fig. 4a. Fig. 4b viewed a top perspective from which it can
easily understand the operating function of the current active still. First, the system is faced due south
for a better receiving of solar rays however a distinguishable feature of solar water heater device that it
is not inclined or oriented unlike other flat–plate collectors due to its cylindricity. Once the still is
filled with saline water, gate valves ‘1’ and ‘2’ of two sides are initially closed. Water from still basin
is released when valve ‘1’ is opened in order to start water heating up process. Incorporated ducts to
the still – collector are advisable to be well insulated. Water circulates pipes till getting blacked helical
tube inside the annular space of the cylindrical transparent glass. Water in solar still basin gained more
remarkably heat energy when it transmits the tubular solar heating system. During round–trip
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circulation between the still and the tubular solar water heater, in this situation basin water gets
evaporated. Due to the closed solar enclosure, trapped humid air condensed over the internal side of
the still cover–glass. Distillate droplets sliding and full down in inclined troughs placed inside the
lateral walls of the distillation system. The still is equipped with a tank to store distilled water
collected. It is worth to mention that an intermediary pumping system among the desalination unit and
the water heater to guarantee a suitable water circulation.

4. Theory

4.1. Passive solar still equations

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The applied thermodynamic model on cover–glass, water and basin constituents of single basin double
sloped solar still which was derived by Rajaseenivasan and Murugavel [79]. It is written for the

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transparent cover–glass as

dTg
Ag ABg H t + Qc , w − g + Qr , w − g + Qe , w − g = m g cp g + Qr , g − sky + Qc , g − sky (1)

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dt
The basin element can be modeled thermodynamically by
dTb
Ab ABb H t = mb cpb + Qc , b − w + Qloss (2)

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dt
And for the saline water, it is expressed as follows
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dTw
Aw ABw H t + Qc , b − w = m w cp w + Qc , w − g + Qr , w − g + Qe , w − g (3)
dt

Introducing the expressions of heat flux and heat transfer coefficients which based on Dunkle’s model
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appended below (see Appendix A), we get respectively for the cover–glass, the basin and saline water
temperatures gradient their final expressions which can be written as
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Ag AB g H t + hc , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) + hr , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) + he , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) =

( )
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(4)
(Tg + 273 ) − (Ta + 273 ) + hc , g − sky Ag (Tg − Tsky )
dTg 4
+ σε g Ag
4
m g cp g
dt
dTb
Ab ABb H t = mb cpb + hc , b − w Ab (Tb − Tw ) + U b Ab (Tb − Ta ) (5)
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dt

+ hc , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) +
dTw
Aw ABw H t + hc , b − w Ab (Tb − Tw ) = m w cp w
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dt (6)
hr , w − g Aw ( Tw − Tg ) + he , w − g Aw ( Tw − Tg )
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Therefore, equations (1) mentioned above may be expressed as

dTg
= a1 .Tg + b1 + f1 ( t ) (7)
dt

Thus, after arrangement of Eq. (7) terms, coefficients a1, b1 and the temporal function f1 are appeared
in the following form
Aw  Ag 
a1 = −  hc , w − g + hr , w − g + he , w − g + hc , g − sky 
m g cp g  Aw 
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b1 = 1
m g cp g { ( ) {
Aw hc , w − g + hr , w − g + he , w − g Tw + Ag hc , g − sky Tsky − σε g ( (T
g + 273 ) − (Ta + 273 )
4 4
)}}
Ag AB g H t
f1 ( t ) =
m g cp g

The function f1(t) can be extended introducing the absorbtance of the glass, we obtain

{1 − ρ }α
Ag H t
f1 ( t ) = g g
m g cp g

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Following the same methodology, the second element regarding the basin of the still, its own transit
equation is

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dTb
= a 2 .Tb + b2 + f 2 ( t ) (8)
dt

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a2 = −
Ab
mb cpb
(
hc , b − w + U b )
b2 =
Ab
(
hc , b − wTw + U bTa )
U
mb cpb
A AB H
f2 (t ) = b b t
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mb cpb

It can be reached after introducing the basin absorbtance that

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f2 (t ) =
Ab H t
mb cpb
{1 − ρ g − α g + ρ gα g − α w + ρ gα w + α gα w − ρ gα gα w }α b
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Equation of the salt water is given as

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dTw
= a3 .Tw + b3 + f 3 ( t ) (9)
dt
Aw  Ab 
a3 = − + hc , w − g + hr , w − g + he , w − g 
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 hc , b − w
m w cp w  Aw 
Aw  
b3 =  hc , b − w
Ab
( )
Tb + hc , w − g + hr , w − g + he , w − g Tg 
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m w cp w  Aw 
A AB H
f3 (t ) = w w t
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mw cp w

The developed form of f3(t) is

f3 (t ) =
Aw H t
mw cp w
{1 − ρ g − α g + ρ gα g }α w
4.2. Active solar still equation

For the active system, the theoretic equation (3) is a little bit transformed to get along with the coupled
solar systems (double sloped solar distillation unit and the cylindrical heater collector) operating
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principle. It can be highlighted by the energy balance equality established for this purpose. Its
expression may be written as
dTw
Aw ABw H t + Qc , b − w + Qu = m w cp w + Qc , w − g + Qr , w − g + Qe , w − g (10)
dt

Simply, its form in which set of heat transfer coefficients can obviously be elucidated, thus
& (T fo − T fi ) =
Aw ABw H t + hc , b − w Ab (Tb − Tw ) + mcp
(10a)
+ hc , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) + hr , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) + he , w − g Aw ( Tw − Tg )
dTw
m w cp w

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dt

Equation of Qu representing in the useful thermal energy suggested by Rasekh and Farzaneh–Gord
[76] may take the following form

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& ( T fo − T fi )
Qu = mcp (11)

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Indeed, Qu represents the product among the mass flow rate, the specific heat of water and the
temperature difference.
The (10a) equation’s members can be recast as
dTw
= a4 .Tw + b4 + f 4 ( t )

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(12)
dt
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Aw  Ab 
a4 = −  hc , b − w + hc , w − g + hr , w − g + he , w − g 
m w cp w  Aw 
b4 =
1
{ ( ) }
& (T fo − T fi )
hc , b − w AbTb + hc , w − g + hr , w− g + he , w − g AwTg + mcp
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mw cpw

f4(t) with respect of the complete form of ABw is

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f4 (t ) =
1
{
Aw {1 − ρ g − α g + ρ g α g }α w H t }
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mw cp w

4.3. Hourly yield Ph

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Analytical formula giving the prediction of the distilled water yield can be referred to [80]
he , w − g × (Tw − Tg )
Ph = 3600 × (13)
h fg
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4.4. Efficiency η

For the conventional solar still, it can be expressed as [80]

m& ew h fg
η= (14)
Ab I ( t )

However, in the current situation of coupled solar devices, it can refer to Tiwari et al. [81] to be
calculated as
hew × (Tw − Tg )
η= (15)
( Ab + NAc ) I ( t )
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Where, N is the number of integrated collectors to the distillation apparatus. In the below Table 2,
parametric design values were utilized during the computational simulations.

5. Methodology and solution procedure

Thermal model (Eqs. (1–3) in section 2) and geometrical configuration parameters exhibited above
were moved to FORTRAN as a first prediction program. Based on a simple demonstrative
organizational chart of principles sequences allowing solution of the current issue was depicted in Fig.
5a. First, the calculations commence by data entry (meteorological data, initial temperatures of solar
components Tg0, Tw0, Tb0 and the maximum time tmax for the time loop). Thermal proprieties depending

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on temperature are: the partial pressure P, heat capacity Cp, latent heat hfg and the rest of the heat
transfer coefficients of Dunkle’s correlations regarding hc,b–w, hc,w–g, hr,w–g, he,w–g, hc,g–sky (See Appendix
section), discretization of thermal temperatures equations and the distillate forecasting. The previous
variable proprieties are updated when any value of temperature is computed. As the chart depicts the

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order of the solution steps, it reflects the need to both of operational parameters and mathematical
formulas which are implemented in the computer program. The latter can be subdivided as follows on
three main parts: the program data, the time loop including the previous mentioned equations and

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results output loop (for temperature and distillate yield values). Indeed, for each step of time, the time
loop calls other subroutines, one of them serves for the computation of solar radiation and the second
one is in connection to calculate the ki coefficients of the 4th order RK numerical approach. The
process stops when the time loop indices achieves the maximal time tmax. In fact, dimensions of

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parameters adopted from literary references were illustrated in Table 2. Moreover, a second program
was dedicated in this regard for solar collector tubular shape (TSC) expecting a comparison along with
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a flat–plate solar collector (FPC) regarding simulations of wind (hw) and overall heat loss (UL)
coefficients. Steps to compute the aforementioned coefficients were summarized in the simple chart of
the Fig. 5b.
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6. Numerical results and discussion

6. 1. Tubular solar collector (TSC)

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In this section, parameters that relate the present tubular solar collector viz. working fluid temperature,
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effect of painted absorber, effect of receiver absorbtivity on the water temperature and prediction of
heat losses for both (TSC) and flat–plate solar collector (FPC) were all examined here. Reached curve
of water temperature is through solution of a third order of ordinary differential equation governing a
fluid flow in a tube which suggested by Rasekh and Farzaneh–Gord [76] and depicted in Appendix A.
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This equation was attained upon elaborating a thermal energy balance which is function of surface
temperature of the pipe, solar radiation and tube design parameters. The energy balance for the fluid
has also been displayed. It is worth mentioning that this part is devoted to study the TSC separately to
the distillation unit.
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6.1.1. Water temperature of the collector

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Fig. 6 is an illustration of water temperature and temperature difference vs. an extended duration of
over 24 hours of daytime for optical parameters of an absorbtance α = 0.90 and an emittance ε = 0.80.
The figure indicates that due to weak solar irradiance in the first hours of the day, water temperature
and temperature difference had low values and augment reaching their maximum between warmest
periods of about 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. The suggested solar collector has a capability of heating up water
as time progresses to achieve ~ 69 °C for a mass flow rate of 9 kg/s and a difference temperature
around 34 °C due to high solar irradiance intensity. The above obtained outputs accord clearly a good
concordance with Rasekh and Farzaneh–Gord [76]. It should realize that the plotted curved lines of
water temperature and temperature difference are strongly affected by insolation.

6.1.2. Effect of painted copper coiled receiver and absorbtivity–emissivity on the temperature of fluid
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Effect of external painted area of the absorber tube with different dyes and absorbtivity of the tube on
the water temperature have been given out in Fig. 7a and 7b on the base of the established equation in
Appendix A, moreover discussing the loss in pressure for this type of ducts and eventual solutions will
all be the outlines of this section. During the day when time is passed from around 5 a.m. of the
morning till 6 p.m. of the afternoon, the water temperature in case of black dye (Fig. 7a) is observed to
be the highest (optical data: α = 0.96 and ε = 0.91), however temperature reduces significantly when
absorbtivity is decreased which is observed for the white dye (low absorbtance). The climatic
conditions data were also involved in computations. Temperature variations with the below
absorbtance–emittance characteristics are in a good agreement with Farzaneh–Gord et al [84]. It is the
same appreciation for the absorbtance factor of the tube (Fig. 7b) when is it high, this causes excellent

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absorption of solar radiation by the duct surface, however keep decreasing the absorbtivity coefficient
leads to low remarkable temperatures which are lower than temperature of the surrounding.
Reciprocally to the absorbtance effect, low emissivity coefficient owns the ability to increasing fluid
temperature as plotted in Fig. 7c. As stated above, the pressure drop in helically tubes may be their

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principal drawback. Researchers reported that fluid circulation in this type of ducts is thermally
enhanced [85] i.e. due to buoyancy effects inside the tube may greatly increment heat transfer rate. It
is the same case for FPCs’ performance which can be improved when wire coiled are inserted [86]. At

SC
this stage, it was reviewed that velocity of the fluid in the range of 0–40 cm/s has a marginal effect on
the drop in pressure [87] i.e. the later augments slowly. In the same context, Farzaneh–Gord et al. [84]
also suggested overcoming this issue by painting tube using a black dye which may minimize the
pressure loss along with the pipe.

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6.1.3. Overall heat loss coefficient (UL): A comparative case
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Solar water heating systems have a manifested drawback from heat loss during operating mechanism.
Noting that researchers have investigated this sort of TSC devices previously (see introduction part)
and recently, low–key works were reviewed [88,89]. Concerning flat–plate collectors, they suffer from
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heat losses by referring to Al–Madani [73] which he has indicated that solar thermal flatted plate
collectors have a disadvantage of the previous mentioned issue and low performance in winter season.
Moreover, as compared to FPC [68], the TSC is relatively costing cheaper than FPC as Ogueke et al.
D

[74] confirmed too. Performance of both systems (FPC, TSC) was assessed by Boonchom et al. [90].
They have recorded a good contribution of heating up ability of TSC against FPC. Unit cost of
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materials constituting the current tubular collector was present in Table 6 according to prices in the
Algerian market. In this regard, simulations were needed on showing behaviors of wind and overall
heat loss coefficients versus wind speed and ambient temperature among FPC and TSC which are
under comparison (Fig. 8). The common analytical relationships that calculate wind and overall heat
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loss coefficients in flat–plate solar collector situation depend obviously upon wind speed, tilt angle,
the number of glazed cover, plate and cover emissivities and plate temperature. However, correlation
that models the wind heat transfer over a cylinder (Eq. (B.20)) as TSC conception was reported from
Ref. [74]. Different heat transfer coefficients in Eq. (B.17) and inputs regarding ambient temperature,
C

glass covering temperature, emissivity of the transparent glass were thoroughly taken from Boonchom
et al. [90]. In Fig. 8a, the left y–axis variation is dedicated for presenting the wind heat transfer
AC

coefficient for both systems, whereas the right ones are simultaneously for the overall heat loss
transfer coefficient of FPC and TSC. In the same figure, all simulated parameters were with respect of
wind speed in the range of 1–6 m/s. Table 3 below serves explicitly the accounted values of the above
mentioned factors. It can be seen that the wind heat loss coefficients of the FPC is rapidly increased
against to TSC due to the non linearity of the TSC heat wind curve from the original relationship (Eq.
(B.17)) however, heat wind coefficient for the FPC is obviously an inclined asymptotic line in
function of vwind (Eq. (B.25)). For instance, when wind speed is considered zero, the hwind (FPC) has
already taken 5.7 W/m2 K value significantly greater than hwind (TSC). Hence, their values will
increase with incrementing wind speed step. The same figure displays curves for the FPC which it is
also influenced by the tilt angle β of 0° and 30°. It was remarked that the overall heat loss of the flat–
plate solar collector is always greater than that obtained in the case of TSC. For a maximum wind
speed value (6 w/s), wind heat and heat loss coefficients for both systems are respectively shown in
Table 3 with and without inclination of FPC. Back to the tilt angle effect, the FPC can perform well
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
unless incline it to the horizontal contrary to TSC which it does not need to be tilted or tracking the
sun rays. In order to confirm that heat loss released from the FPC can be overcome by inclining the
device till a suitable angle. Fig. 8b shows the trend of the heat loss coefficient in function of ambient
temperature. This pattern obvious that heat losses increase as the temperature of the surrounding
augments as well. For instance, in Fig. 8b which elucidates that tilted FPC by 30 degrees can minimize
heat loss from 5.21 W/m2 K until 5.17 W/m2 K for a maximum monitored ambient temperature of 40
°C. In addition, the curve in Fig. 8b implies that FPC’s losses are clearly minimal in the first hours of
the day (25 °C). On the other hand, curve of the heat loss for TSC appears here to be significantly
lower with respect to FPC ones. Achieved results were also compared to Agbo and Okoroigwe [91]
and showed in Table 5 below. To conclude, the environmental parameters such as wind speed and

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ambient temperature stressing that they have an insightful influence on the design of heating systems
[76].

6. 2. Solar stills

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6.2.1. Climatic parameters: Solar radiation, ambient temperature and wind speed

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Fig. 9 illustrates the instantaneous variation of wind speed, ambient temperature and solar radiation
under Batna (35°33′N, 6°11′E) weather conditions for a hot day of summer season. Solar radiation is
more expected to be intense during 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. and it reached around 1100 W/m2 however,
ambient temperature attained a maximum of 36 °C in the period of 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. furthermore, the

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wind speed is varying among 4 to 7 m/s.
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6. 2.2. Passive and active solar stills: Curves of heat transfer coefficients, pressures and latent heat

Curves of heat transfer coefficients (by convection: hc,w–g, radiation: hr,w–g, evaporation: he,w–g and
overall heat transfer: ht), pressures and latent heat in different modes (passive and active) were
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graphically presented in the following order: Fig. 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d. Figs. 10a and 10b are the
heat transfer coefficients representation for simultaneously solar still only and the modified one.
Further, heat transfer coefficients correlations in Appendix A are the Dunkle’s model [47] which has
D

been employed for verification. From Fig. 10a, reached values of convective heat transfer coefficient
(in the range of 0.88 – 2.64 W/m2 K) was detected throughout the daytime. Where, it is obviously
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expected to augment for radiation and evaporative coefficients as 4.70 – 6.74 W/m2 K and 2.83 –
36.34 W/m2 K respectively. The total heat transfer rate was in the range of 8.70 – 47.58 W/m2 K. on
the other hand, recorded rates of thermal coefficients for the coupled still were in the range of 0.88 –
2.69 W/m2 K, 4.65 – 7.18 W/m2 K, 2.00 – 47.33 W/m2 K and 7.00 – 59.18 W/m2 K of convective,
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radiation, evaporative and total heat coefficients as displayed in Fig. 10b. In addition, pressures of
water and glass mediums have also been illustrated in Fig. 10c. It can be seen from this figure that
water pressure values are significantly important towards obtained glass pressure ones. Here are the
following couples of maximum up peak predicted water and glass pressures for active solar still which
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are (~ 43927, ~ 13010 N/m2) and the passive configuration were (~ 312089, ~ 9867 Pa) corresponding
to 2:00 p.m. of daylight moments. Latent heat as highlighted in Appendix A, was similarly carried out
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as glass and water pressure and the set of heat transfer coefficients in the previous figures. As pointed
out earlier that the supplement heat energy source has augmented still components temperature, it is
reciprocally for the latent heat parameter due to the increase of temperature. Discovering more its
mathematical expression, this helps to find clearly that the latent heat pattern for the passive still is
above the active one. Generally, it takes to decrease initially with time reaching a minimum down
peak around 1:00 p.m.–3 p.m. and restart increasing again. It is worth mentioning that the intensive
solar radiation in the previous period is effectively employed to evaporate basin salt water. Taking into
account that heat latent is calculated in function of the average temperature among evaporated and
condensed surfaces (The average temperature is the mean value among glass and water temperatures
as Tav = (Tg + Tw)/2), at this stage it can be written that (Tg, Tw)passive still is lower than those of active
system, however the difference (2503.3 – 2.3998.T)passive still is greater than that attained in case of
embedded devices because of augmentation of both glass and water temperatures in active solar still
situation which lead to decrease of the following difference (2503.3 – 2.3998.T) against the one of
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passive solar still. The minimal down peak of latent heat relates the coupled and uncoupled systems
were monitored to be ~ 1692640 and ~ 1711070 J/kg respectively.

6. 2.3. Passive and active solar stills: Temperature fields

As pointed out previously that temperature locations of each element drawing the still design are
updated as time progresses. Input temperature values of basin, water and glass cover utilized to start
up the computation process were respectively 27 °C, 27 °C and 26 °C. It is worth to mention that the
initial temperature data of the cover is lower than both basin and water in order to avoid falling in the
indeterminate case. Heat exchange mathematical model (0D) of a double sloped solar still active mode

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was developed on the base of basin, glass and water media. Principal heat transfer correlations have
been shown in Appendix part below using Dunkle’s model. Equation that predicts the useful energy
gain (Eq. A1) from the solar collector was employed to model the active still situation. Steps

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summarizing solution of the current issue were depicted in a chart above. The enhanced performance
of passive solar system (distillator only) is due to two important raisons such as the integration of the
solar collector to the desalting plant and the good thermal characteristics of the water basin
(absorbtivity) and the cover glass (high transmitivity of solar radiation, low reflectivity to the

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ambiance) all these factors can judge the good functionality of the current active solar pilot–scale
target. Fig. 8 depicts the instantaneous temperature variation of different elements namely the basin
(Tb), the water (Tw), the glass (Tg) and temperature difference (Tw – Tg) for active and passive solar
stills. Temperature variables were simulated in a hot day of summer season. Instantaneous thermal

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profiles of each element are trending with the same tendency. Maximum values of temperature of each
component were reached between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. periods. For instance, attainable basin temperature
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has been observed (~ 83 °C) quite greater than (~ 70 °C) of basin water in case of a still only (Fig.
11a). Curve of the glass cover is noticed lower then basin and water. High reached temperature for the
glass cover was ~ 45 °C. Thermal performance of the active distillation unit (Fig. 11b) was also
compared against a conventional still. It can be observed that basin and water temperatures for the
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active distillatory are higher than that of the passive one and readable difference in temperature
occurred between passive and actives solar still systems can be observed. Higher temperature was
always detected in the forgoing instants regarding the basin and water components which attain ~ 90
D

°C – 80 °C for the coupled still. Differences in temperatures may be easily noticed which can be
interpreted due to supplement heat energy through solar heater collector. It can be easily remarked that
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due to supplementary heat energy source of the integrated cylindrical solar collector, trend of the
distillation drive force of the active apparatus is over the passive one. Reached results especially heat
transfer coefficients patterns are with agreement with Singh et al. [47] and Al–Sulttani et al. [92].
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6. 2.4. Passive and active solar stills: Yield performance and efficiency

Hourly variation of yield performance and total distillate amount of both integrated and non integrated
solar desalination devices was graphically shown in Figs. 12a and 12b. As pointed out earlier, the
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introduced useful energy gain Qu requiring solution of the third order ODE (Eq. (A.1)) has enhanced
significantly the still performance calculus (heat and mass transfer). Indeed, using a heat exchanger
AC

spiral tube was recently conducted a little bit different to our work. Thus, investigating fluid flow in
helical tube heat exchanger was performed currently by Hosseini et al. [93]. This study consists upon
two ways, first heating up of water was carried out through an integrated electrical heater to still and
then the hot water would pass a spiral duct heat exchanger by mean of pump. In addition, other
techniques have been utilized as incorporating twisted tap and coiled wire indoor the heat exchanger.
Findings indicated that considering these elements as enhancers have improved the still performance.
Furthermore, outputs were compared to simple spiral tube and it can be conclude that maximum
distilled yield has reached for high water temperature from the heat exchanger. Moreover, enhanced
distillate values in each case (i.e. inserted twisted tap, coiled wire) were observed to approach to each
other including the spiral tube only. Compared to our investigation, it should mention that dimensions
of the chosen helically pipe in this study [93] were obviously higher than those used in the present
work. In the same context, El–Sebaii et al. [80] were previously analyzed numerically solar still
coupled solar pond. The later contains a long coiled pipe and directly connected to the basin liner of
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
the distiller. Varying water depth in the still and mass flow rate till respectively 0.05 m, 0.006 kg/s in
presence of the solar pond showed an improvement of productivity in case of 0.005 m of water layer
and 0.003 kg/s of fluid circulation. Also, Kumar et al. [94] conducted a study of an integrated solar
still with an ETC. The coupled systems were tested under natural and forced water circulations. The
later, caused high attained basin water temperature (90 °C) through increasing mass flow rate till 0.06
kg/s which has effectively affected temperatures. On the base of this output, they recommend to
operate the active still with forced flow at an optimum value of flow rate (0.06–0.07 kg/s) in order to
ovoid water boiling in still basin which is an undesirable process. Total productivity under forced flow
was found to be 3.9 kg/m2. As pointed out above, the tubular collector has a significant effect
regarding the increase of water temperature inside the still compartment and hence an enhanced driven

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force to achieve an improved yield may be reflected by distillate curves below. Distillate output is
highest for the combined solar system than a simple one. In the end of the distillation process, Fig. 12b
indicates a total daily productivity of the current conception which can reach ~ 4 kg/m2 however it is
less for a conventional still achieving ~ 2.77 kg/m2 (Fig. 12a). However, the maximum hourly yield

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was found to be ~ 0.54 kg/m2 and ~ 0.80 kg/m2 respectively for the improved and non improved
system. Therefore, predicted distilled water production was enhanced about ~ 31%. Similar tendency
of the hourly production for both cases were found as reported from [43]. The instantaneous efficiency

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for the both configurations has been illustrated as well in Fig. 12c. It can be seen that efficiency of the
modified system increases till ~ 80% and this due to high attained water temperature while it is lower
for the conventional device which achieves ~ 40%. Tendency of reached temporal efficiency were
similar to that obtained by Singh et al. [47]. Table 1 gives out principal summarized conducted works

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dealing with single and double upward sloped glass solar stills operating in active and passive natures.
Focusing upon reached outcomes, especially for double slope distiller, the distillation capability of
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proposed active solar desalination target elucidates an encouragement with these researches.

7. Cost estimation
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As stated earlier, principal components of the solar collector cylindrical view from inside to outside
are: the spiral tube (absorber), the transparent glass collector, cylindrical plates, rubber and supplement
task as supports legs for the whole device. Table 6 involves prices of each cited elements previously in
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US Dollar ($). It can be observed that the price of each element constituting the target in Algerian raw
market is obviously cheap comparing to other flat–plate collectors or concentrators.
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8. Conclusions
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The present contribution shows the performance enhancement of a classical distillation unit using a
TSC as an improver of heat and mass transfer. Reached conclusions from this work are summarized in
the following important points:
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Exploration of solar heater application tubular view has been dedicated for heating water
operating.
AC

It is worth mentioning that this choice of the above mentioned solar device is being a simple and
uncomplicated mechanism.

New fluid thermal configuration of solar still double slope integrated solar heating collector
cylindrical shape has been designed and numerically investigated.

Heat exchange performance of the current target revealed an improvement of a conventional still
by increasing basin water temperature from ~ 70 °C till ~ 80 °C.

Daily yield performance was also carried out and findings showed an augmentation of ~ 2.77
kg/m2 (passive configuration) till ~ 4 kg/m2 (active configuration) which an enhancement of ~
31% is observed.

Cost analysis: by observing that due to the low element number constituting the whole solar
collector apparatus, the unit cost estimation of the supplement solar collector has indicated that
the price of the proposed cylindrical heater in US Dollar is very cheap especially in our Algerian
market.
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT

Short periodic maintenance: As reported from literature that the TSC device does not need to be
under a hard maintenance to get a good performance.

The present conducted numerical simulations showed that TSC can operate better than FPC with
low heat losses.

As reported from this study, performance of the FPC may be enhanced in case of its inclination in
order to reduce heat loss contrary to the TSC.

Appendix A

Change in temperature in tube was established by Rasekh and Farzaneh–Gord [76] along the axial

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direction and neglecting the radial one as

( kA )s
dTs
+
α IT Po
(
− ho Po (Ts − T∞ ) − εσ Po Ts4 − Tsky
4
)
− hi Pi (Ts − T f ) = 0 (A.1)

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2
dx

The fourth order of pipe surface temperature can be reduced to a linear form using Taylor series

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development, therefore

Ts4 = 4T∞3Ts − 3T∞4 (A.2)

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The sky temperature is defined as
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Tsky = 0.0552 ⋅ T∞1.5 (A.3)

Substituting Eq. (A.2) and in (A.3) in Eq. (A.1) and rearranging terms, this yields
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d 2Ts
) ( ) (Ts − T∞ ) − (hkAP) (Ts − T f ) + εσ( kAP T)
3
α IT Po εσ Po
+ − − 3T∞4 − =0
3 ho Po o sky
2 ( kA )s ( kA
4T T
∞ s ( kA )s
i i
(A.4)
dx 2 s s s
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Heat energy balance of fluid flow, can be given using the below expression
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= hi Pi (Ts − T f )
dT f
ρ f UA f Cp (A.5)
dx
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Simply, Ts may be extracted from (A.5) as

ρ f UA f Cp dT f
Ts = + Tf
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hi Pi (A.6)
dx
AC

Once Ts is replaced in Eq. (A.3), a third ODE in function of Tf can be simply reached.

Appendix B

B.1. Solar stills: Heat fluxes [79], heat transfer coefficients, pressures [47], latent heat and specific
heat [79]

Qc ,b − w = hc ,b − w Ab (Tb − Tw ) (B.1)
Qc , w − g = hc , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) (B.2)
Qr , w − g = hr , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) (B.3)
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
Qe , w − g = he , w − g Aw (Tw − Tg ) (B.4)

Qr , g – sky = σε g Ag ( (T g + 273 ) − (Ta + 273 )

4 4
) (B.5)

Qc , g – sky = hc , g – sky Ag (Tg − Tsky ) (B.6)

Qloss = U b Ab (Tb − Ta ) (B.7)

{ }
13
( P − P )(T + 273)
hc , w – g = 0.884  Tw − Tg + 2w68.9g ×10w3 − P  (B.8)

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 w


hr , w – g = ε eff σ ( (T + 273 ) + (Tg + 273 )

2 2
) (T + Tg + 546 ) (B.9)

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w w

he,w– g = 0.016273 × hc,w– g ( )

Pw − Pg
Tw −Tg (B.10)

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hc , g – sky = 5.7 + 3.8 ⋅ v (B.11)
hT = hc , w – g + he , w – g + hr , w – g (B.12)

(
Pg = exp 25.317 − Tg5144 )
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+ 273 (B.13)

(
Pw = exp 25.317 − 5144
)
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Tw + 273 (B.14)
h fg = 100 0 × ( 2530.3 − 2.398 ⋅ T ) (B.15)
Cp = 999.2 – 0.1434 ⋅ T + 1.101 ⋅ T 2 − 6.758 × 10 −8 ⋅ T 3 (B.16)
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B.2. Solar collectors: Wind and overall heat loss transfer coefficients
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B.2.1. Tubular solar collector (TSC)

TE

Note that the coiled tube is housed by the cylindrical collector and the whole system is surrounded by
the environment, thus the heat transfer coefficient of wind over a cylinder surface is given from [74] in
Eq. (B.17) as
C EP
AC
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT

(Outlet)
Extracted copper coiled tube from
the cylindrical glass envelope

Annular space

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Fluid flow
direction
Coiled tube

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Material: Copper
(Inlet) Wind stream over
Thermal conductivity: 389 W/m K [89]

Inner diameter: 8 mm [90]
the glass cylinder
Outer diameter: 12 mm [90]
Inclination of the system is equal to 0°

hwind = ( 4.22 − 0.00257 ⋅ Tmean ) Dwind

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V 0.633
0.637 (B.17)
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o

Where, Tmean is the mean temperature of absorber and cover which can be calculated as

Tp +Tc
Tmean =
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2 (B.18)

The overall heat loss coefficient UL is defined as function of the top, bottom and edge losses
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coefficients as [89]

U L = Ut + Ub + Ue
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(B.19)
Due to the design shape of the TSC and no existence of back losses, Ub and Ue is zero [73,90].

So, the final form of UL can be written as [90]

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( )
−1
U L = ( h + hr ) A +
A Ar
hr ,r − c Ar (B.20)
r ,c − a c ,c − a c
C

Where, heat transfer coefficients included the Eq. (B.20) can be explicitly given as [90]
AC

Radiation coefficient from the cylindrical cover housing to the surrounding is

(
hr , c − a = ε g σ Tc2 + Ts2 ) (T c + Ts ) (B.21)

Where, Ts is the sky temperature which can be replaced by the ambient temperature since the sky
temperature is not influential on results [96].

The radiation coefficient from the coiled tube to the cylindrical cover is
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σ (Tr2 + Tc2 ) (Tr + Tc )
hr , r − c =
( )
(B.22)
1− ε r
εr + 1 + 1−ε εc c Ar
Ac

Energy efficiency of the system can be defined as the ratio of useful energy gain to the solar–energy
intensity, so [76]

η en =
&
mCp (T fo − T fi )
(B.23)

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I T Ac

Observing that the absorber of the TSC is a coiled duct, therefore calculation of its length can be

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referred to the following equation reported from Alimoradi [95] as

( )
0.5
l = N p 2 + 9.87 ⋅ d c2 (B.24)

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Where, N is the number of turns, p is the pitch and dc is the coil diameter.

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B.2.2. Flat–plate solar collector (FPC)

For the flat–plate solar collector, the common expression of wind heat transfer coefficient is
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hw = 5.7 + 3.8 ⋅ v (B.25)
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By neglecting the heat loss from edge of the collector Ue [73,90], Eq. (B.19) is recommended [97] to
predict the overall heat loss transfer coefficient UL which may be rewritten with respect to heat loss
from top Ut and back Ub of the heater which they take the below forms
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−1
 
σ (Tp + Ta ) T p2 + Ta2 ( )
TE

 N 1 
Ut =  +  +
( ) ( ε p + 0.00591 ⋅ N ⋅ hw ) +
−1 (B.26)
( T p − Ta ) 2⋅ N + f −1+ 0.133⋅ε p
e
 C hw 
εg −N
 Tp ( N + f ) 
EP

f = (1 + 0.089 ⋅ hw − 0.1166 ⋅ hw ⋅ ε p ) (1 + 0.07866 ⋅ N )

(
C = 520 1 − 0.000051 ⋅ β 2 )
( )
C

C = 0.430 1 − 100
Tp
AC

Ub = k
δ (B.27)

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Table 1 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
Past and present studies on regenerative active solar stills.
No. Authors/Year Research type Solar still type Pre–heating Circulation Technological Important remarks
(Exp./Theo.) system mode additives
1 Sodha et al. [37] (1990) Theo. Single slope still Flat–plate Forced Solar collector
A simple single slope active solar still was economically analyzed.
solar collector circulation connected to a
Numerical predictions have been carried out under Delhi (India) climatic
serpentine heat conditions.
exchanger
Presence of the collector is influential but economically should be taken in
consideration.

Care of design is a necessity recommended.
2 Singh and Tiwari [38] (1993) Theo. Single slope still Flat–plate Thermosyphon Water circulation
Performance of an active solar still was simulated under Delhi (India)

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solar collector mode over the cover– climate conditions.
glass
Findings are based on the analysis of efficiency and yield.

Performance of the target was affected positively by the circulation of water

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over the transparent covering area.

Heated water from forced circulation of the active system did not bring
improvement of productivity.

SC
3 Morcos [39] (1994) Exp. and Single slope still Flat–plate Thermosyphon Blackened basin
Numerical and experimental work has been conducted in Nag Hammadi
Theo. solar collector mode surface (Egypt).

Distillate output was affected by the blackened water and the supplement
heat source of the solar collector.

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It was observed that both of black dye and an external solar collector can
significantly enhance the distillation unit functionality.

AN
4 Kumar and Tiwari [40] (1996) Exp. and Single and Flat–plate Forced (active) Water circulation
Single and double stage single slope stills were studied.
Theo. double basin solar collector circulation over the cover–
Both systems have been investigated with/without water flowing over the
single–slope glass cover–glass.

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still
Desalination systems performed well in presence of water circulation.
5 Tripathi and Tiwari [41] (2005) Exp. and Single slope still Flat–plate Forced (active) -
The study focused upon examining the convective heat transfer of a single
Theo. solar collector circulation roof single sloped solar distillation device.

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Twenty four hours is the duration of experimental measurements in winter
season for different water layers inside the system (0.05, 0.10 and 0.15 m).

Different coefficients of heat and mass transfer are affected by water depth.

TE

For 0.10 and 0.15 m of water depth, productivity increased during night
hours.
6 Kumar et al. [42] (2014) Theo. Single slope still Evacuated Forced (active) -
Solar still single slope was improved by integrating it with an evacuated tube
EP
tube solar mode solar collector under Delhi (India) climatological conditions.
collector
Results were found as:
- For a water layer of 0.01 m and a flowing rate of 0.006 kg/s, productivity
was found 3.47 kg.
C

- For a water layer of 0.03 m and a flowing rate of 0.06 kg/s, productivity
was found 3.9 kg.
AC

- Energetic and exergetic efficiencies were 33.8 % and 2.6 %.

The averaged yearly production was found to be greater in the case of a
forced circulation mode than that of a passive one.
7 Dwivedi and Tiwari [43] (2010) Exp. and Double slope Flat–plate Natural -
Double sloped single basin still was experimented and theoretically has been
Theo. still solar collector (passive) mode modelized in passive mode.

All thermal parameters were investigated for a water layer inside the still of
0.03 m corresponding to a typical day of March for Ghaziabad (India)
climatology.

Thermal efficiency of passive still was found to be greater than an active
one.

Exergy of passive still was found to be lower than an active one.
8 Singh et al. [44] (2011) Exp. Double slope PV connected Natural and -
Double sloped active still was well equipped to operate in isolated areas.
still FPC forced mode
Solar collectors in parallel mode and connected to the still under forced flow
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT can rise the daily yield till 7.54 kg.

The fabricated active distillation mechanism performs well than simple
single sloped active still.

Efficiency of the developed active system was found to be 17.4 %.
9 Sethi and Dwivedi [45] (2013) Exp. Double slope Flat–plate Forced (active) -
Exergetic study of a double upward slanting glass cover solar still under
still solar collector mode active circulation has been carried out.

Heat exchange and exergy efficiencies varying respectively between: (13.55
– 31.07 %)/(0.26 – 1.34 % )
10 Sampathkumar and Exp. and Single slope still Evacuated Natural Hot water storage
A hybrid solar distillation device has been designed and manufactured.
Senthilkumar [46] (2012) Theo. tube solar (passive) mode tank
Yield was found to be high in the case combined systems (Still – Solar
collector heater) (77 % of yield higher than simple still).

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Final product (distillate) after distillation process was acceptable.
11 Singh et al. [47] (2013) Theo. Single slope still Evacuated Natural -
Single slope solar evacuated still was theoretically investigated
tube solar (passive) mode corresponding to a typical day of summer in New Delhi (India).

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collector
Optimization design was carried out in function of evacuated tube number
and water layer indoor the unit.

Water temperature peaked about 94 °C.

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It was revealed that coupling 10 evacuated tubes with 0.03 m of water layer
thickness may be a moderate configuration.

Energetic efficiency: 33 %; Exergetic efficiency: 2.5 %; Daily yield: 3.8
kg/m2.

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12 Omara et al. [48] (2013) Exp. Single slope still Evacuated Natural -
Evacuated hybrid solar desalination system was fabricated and tested in
- Single and solar collector (passive) mode Kafrelsheikh University (Egypt).

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double layer
The study encompassed theoretical verification with experimental tests of
wick solar stills several organs related the desalination apparatus.

Double layer wick still can reach 114 % of yield higher than simple one.

Efficiency of the latter was 71.5 % per day.

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It was observed that yield augmented by 215 % in night period.
13 Sandeep et al. [49] (2015) Exp. Single and Flat–plate Natural -
Experimental attempt of a modified conventional solar still single slope
double slope solar collector (passive) mode under passive mode was performed.

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stills
Daily productivity has been estimated to be 3.015 kg/m2.

25 % of enhancement against to unmodified still.

TE
14 Kumar and Tiwari [50] (2010) Exp. Single slope PV connected Forced (active) -
Single upward still and another one coupled to PV/T were developed in New
stills FPC mode Delhi (India).

Devices have been under tests with 0.05, 0.10 and 0.15 m of water layer.

According to the water layer chosen of 0.05 m, systems (passive and active
EP
respectively) can produce 2.26 kg and 7.22 kg of distilled water.
15 Gaur and Tiwari [51] (2010) Exp. and Single slope still PV connected Forced (active) -
Optimizing the collector number is the main purpose of this study.
Theo. FPC mode
Single upward still connected to PV/T solar collectors was studied.
C

Numerical model was developed for the hybrid active desalinator.

Simulations were conducted under Delhi (India) climate.
AC

Exergy trends in function with the mass of water basin.

Outcomes revealed so that high yield can be attained for four collectors
branched.
16 Raju and Narayana [52] (2016) Exp. and Single slope still Flat–plate Forced (active) -
Outside experimental tests have been performed on a single upward solar
Theo. solar collector mode still under Kakinada (India) coastal climate.

Tests were performed for twenty four hours in summer season.

A set of solar panels branched in series configuration has significantly
affected the still performance.

Connection of tow collectors in series mode enhances productivity with 41
% higher than an individual collector.

Connection of three collectors in series mode raised productivity with 89 %
higher than an individual collector.
17 Eltawil and Omara [53] (2014) Exp. Single slope still Photovoltaic Passive and External
Experiments were done under active and passive modes for comparisons
 modules flat ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
actives modes condenser with a simple still under Egypt climate.
plate
Additional technology devices have affected the performance of the still.
collector
Production of the traditional distiller was among 3 – 4 l/m2.

About each added enhancer may be reported the following:
- Using an external condenser, productivity was augmented to 51 %.
- Flowing hot water in the passive and active sprays without adding a
condenser, productivity was found to be 56 % and 82 % simultaneously.

It was observed that suitable climatology conditions affect the modified solar
still.
18 Elashmawy [54] (2017) Exp. Tubular solar Parabolic - Tracking
Active tubular solar still was constructed under Saudi Arabia climatic
still concentrator mechanism conditions.

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Tests were carried out on conventional tubular still and the modified one.

The former (i.e. enhanced tubular still) performance was compared to an
uncoupled still.

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The conventional tubular still has shown daily production ability for three
experimental attempts of 4.71, 3.6 and 3.53 L/m2 this means a daily yield of
0.28, 0.214 and 1.66 L under 0.059 m2 of the tubular solar still surface.

SC

Yield of the improved desalination target was improved to reach 676 %.

Diurnal efficiencies (of three tests) were: 36.5%, 30.5% and 28.5%.

Cost decreasing by 45.5% per liter.
19 Hamawand et al. [63] (2017) Exp. and Vacuum spray - - -
Preliminary tests of a vacuum spray dryer devoted for distillation were

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Theo. dryer carried out.

Solar power assisted the system for production.

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Results indicated that:
- Amount of 15 kg/m2 is the daily productivity of the suggested target.
- A 30% of latent heat was recycled.
20 Sarhaddi et al. [64] (2017) Theo. Cascade still PC material - -
Cascade still with and without PC material has been studied.

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The analyzed system was carried out under sunny and semi cloudy climates.

Energy – exergy examination were done.

Results

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- Corresponding to sunny climate without PC material
• Energy efficiency: 76.69%

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• Exergy efficiency: 6.53%
- Corresponding to semi cloudy climate with PC material
• Energy efficiency: 74.35%
• Exergy efficiency: 8.59%
C EP
AC
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
Table 2
Numerical data used for the simulation study [].
Parameters Values
(i) Meteorological inputs
Latitude 35°33′N
Longitude 6°11′E
Albedo 0.25
(ii) Solar still [79]
Ab 0.63 m2
Ag 0.728 m2
dw 2 cm

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Cpb 473 J/kg °C
Cpg 800 J/kg °C
Cpw 4187 J/kg °C
mb 8.2 kg
14 W/m2 °C

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Ub
αb 0.95
αg 0.0475
αw 0.05

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ρg 0.0735
(iii) Tubular collector [73]
Collector tube
Do 0.14 m
L 0.8 m

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δc 6 mm
Spiral tube [90]
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Di 0.008 mm
Do 0.012 mm
α 0.94
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Table 3
Wind and overall heat loss transfer coefficients dependence wind velocity for the FPC and TSC systems.
vwind (m/s) hwind (W/m2 K) hwind (W/m2 K) UL (W/m2 K) UL (W/m2 K) UL (W/m2 K)
(FPC) (TSC) (FPC, β = 0°) (FPC, β = 30°) (TSC)
D

0 5.7 0 5.19265 5.15396 1.16613

0.25 6.65 2.88614 5.19015 5.14882 1.42528
0.5 7.6 4.47579 5.26253 5.21867 1.53375
TE

0.75 8.55 5.78543 5.36602 5.31975 1.61014

1 9.5 6.941 5.48192 5.43336 1.66967
1.25 10.45 7.99404 5.60135 5.55063 1.71852
1.5 11.4 8.97197 5.71986 5.66709 1.7599
1.75 12.35 9.89157 5.83516 5.78046 1.79574
EP

2 13.3 10.76401 5.94613 5.8896 1.8273

2.25 14.25 11.59721 6.05225 5.994 1.85545
2.5 15.2 12.39704 6.15338 6.0935 1.88081
2.75 16.15 13.168 6.24954 6.18812 1.90384
C

3 17.1 13.91361 6.3409 6.27801 1.92492

3.25 18.05 14.63674 6.42765 6.36337 1.94432
3.5 19 15.33971 6.51004 6.44444 1.96227
AC

3.75 19.95 16.02448 6.58832 6.52146 1.97895

4 20.9 16.69268 6.66272 6.59467 1.99451
4.25 21.85 17.34572 6.73349 6.6643 2.00909
4.5 22.8 17.9848 6.80086 6.73058 2.02278
4.75 23.75 18.61098 6.86504 6.79372 2.03567
5 24.7 19.22517 6.92624 6.85393 2.04785
5.25 25.65 19.82818 6.98463 6.91137 2.05937
5.5 26.6 20.42075 7.04041 6.96624 2.07031
5.75 27.55 21.00351 7.09373 7.01869 2.08071
6 28.5 21.57704 7.14474 7.06887 2.09061
 ACCEPTED MANUSCRIPT
Table 5
Distillation capability comparison of the present work with some forgoing studies.
Targets Ref. Authors Findings from Ref. [91] Findings from the present work
[91] Agbo and Okoroigwe Overall heat loss transfer vwind (m/s) UL (W/m2 K) (FPC, β = 0°) UL (W/m2 K) (TSC)
Flat–plate solar

(2007) coefficient of a FPC has been

Tubular solar

found in the range of 7–8 W/m2

collector

collector
1 5.48192 1.66967
K in the interval from 1 to 5 m/s 2 5.94613 1.8273
for the wind speed 3 6.3409 1.92492
4 6.66272 1.99451

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5 6.92624 2.04785
Ref. Authors Single/double slope still Temperature range of basin/water Added elements for Distillation rate
Passive mode solar stills

enhancement if any

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[58] Rajaseenivasan et al. Single and double basin double ~ 60 °C for both basin and water - Single basin double slope still: ~ 1.5 l/day
(2013) slope stills (single basin) with a water depth of 2 cm

SC
[82] Elango and Murugavel Single and double basin double ~ 65–70 °C (single basin) - Single basin double slope still: ~ 3 l/hr with
(2015) slope stills a water depth of 2 cm
[83] R. Arun Kumar et al. Single slope still Utilization of an external Traditional still: 585 ml
(2016) condenser and agitation Enhanced system (with condenser and

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influence agitation effect): 830 ml
Cumulative yield: ~ 2.77 kg/m2

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Present work Double slope still ~ 83 °C / ~ 70 °C -
Integrated still to solar collector
type
[80] El–Sebaii et al. (2008) Single slope still embedded ~ 55 °C / ~ 55 °C Heat exchanger pipe Hourly productivity: ~ 0.6 kg/m2

M
solar pond
Dwivedi and Tiwari Double slope still coupled a ~ 80 °C (water) - Daily yield: 2.791 kg/m2 (active system,

D
(2010) flat–plate collector month of March)
Daily yield: 1.838 kg/m2 (passive system,

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month of March)
[47] Singh et al. (2013) Single slope still combined ~ 90 °C (water) - Daily yield: 3.8 kg/m2 (water depth in the
Active mode solar stills

evacuated tube solar collector still: 0.03 m)

[49] Sandeep et al. (2015) Double slope still coupled a - • Wooden plate shades Still with blackened basin: 3.095 kg
EP
flat–plate solar collector cover The other models are
• Wet cotton covers the - Wooden plate shades cover: 3.26 kg
second glass plate - Wet cotton covers the second glass
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• The opposite cover was plate: 3.515 kg

- The opposite cover was made from
AC

made from aluminum

plate aluminum plate: 3.545 kg
[93] Hosseini et al. (2017) Single slope still integrated Exit warm water from the heat Inserted twisted tap and Yield productivity incremented from 5.1–till
spiral heat exchanger exchanger: 60 °C wire coiled inside the 9.7% by varying the mass flow rate
helical duct of heat
exchanger
Present work Double slope still integrated ~ 90 °C / ~ 80 °C - Cumulative yield: ~ 4 kg/m2
tubular solar collector Corresponding to high solar
irradiance, maximum hot water
exit from the heat exchanger: ~ 69
°C (simulated)
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Table 6
Unit cost of the tubular solar collector materials in Algerian market (in US Dollars) (1 DZ = 0.00911131 $ (2017)).
Principal collector components Cost in US $
(1) Cylindrical plates 13.622
(2) Rubber 3.642
(3) Spiral tube (Copper coil) 20.046
(4) Transparent glass 22.779
(5) Pump 27.190
(6) Other elements (paints, valves, …) 2.915
Total (with pump dispositive) 90.194
Total (without pump) 63.004

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Flat–plate
photovoltaic/
thermal solar
collectors
(PV/T)
Evacuated
Tube Solar
Collectors
(ETSCs)

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Solar heater Solar
Solar water
system collector
heaters
cylindrical
(SWHs) applications
shape

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Solar
Concentrators
(SCs)

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Solar Air
Collectors
(SACs)

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Fig. 1. Solar heating collector applications.
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Water
exit
-3-
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-1-
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-2-
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-4-
Water
entrance
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Fig. 2. Designed cylindrical solar collector.

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Desalination unit

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SC
Solar collector

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Fig. 3. Layout of the active solar distillation apparatus.
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4
2
5
‘2’
6

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3

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M

7
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10
EP

‘1’
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(a)
(1) Cover–glass  (2) Basin  (3) Support legs  (4) Saline water supply  (5) Drainage  (6) Insulated
conduit (7) Trough  (8) Distillate storage tank  (9) Pump  (10) Support legs for pump  ‘1’ – ‘2’ Control
valves
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Control valves
Desalination unit
Salt water
inlet Distilled water

Saline water
‘2’ ‘1’

Basin

Closed circuit
Closed circuit

Pump

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Insulated conduits

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Hot saline water outlet Cold saline water inlet

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(From the solar collector) (Towards the solar collector)
Solar collector

(b)
Fig. 4. a) Integrated solar systems: detailed constitutional elements b) Explanative circuit of the operating process (Top

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view).
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Start

Data input

Calculation of different
absorptances of each still’s media
Time loop
Time computation: tk

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Computation of:

Partial pressures: P

Heat capacity: cp

latent heat: hfg

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calculation of components
radiation
subroutine introduced in

Renewed time

the rest of heat transfer coefficients

Subroutine program
Evaluation of glass, water and

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basin temperatures: Tg, Tb

to

temperature
and Tw, Eqs. (7) ~ (9) and (12)

Calling
Computation of distillate

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output: Ph, Eq. (13)
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Computation of efficiency:
η, Eq. (14) and (15)
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t ≤ tmax Yes

No
Results
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End
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Start

Data input of absorber and glass:

Temperatures

Absorbtivity

Emissivity

Surfaces

Wind computation: vwind

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function of the ambient air
temperature, the wind vector
In case of recalculating hwind

would be changed to ambient

and UL for both systems in
Computation of:

Wind heat coefficient of the
• FPC: hwind,FPC
• TSC: hwind,TSC

temperature vector

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Overall heat loss coefficient of the
• FPC: UL,FPC
• TSC: UL,TSC

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v ≤ vmax Yes

No

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ResultsAN
End
Fig. 5. a) Chart of the main parts of the computer program for solar stills b) Steps to calculate wind and overall heat loss
coefficients.
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1200 80
Solar radiation Emissivity ε = 0,8
1100 Water temperature Absorbtivity α = 0,9
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Temperature, Temperature difference (°C)

Temperature difference 70
1000
900 60
Solar radiation (W/m )

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2

800
50
700
600 40
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500
30
400
300 20
200
C

10
100
AC

0 0
6

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

Time of the day (h)

Fig. 6. Solar radiation, water temperature and temperature difference vs. time.
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70
Black paint (α = 0,96) (ε = 0,91)
Green paint (α = 0,8) (ε = 0,85)
Brown paint (α = 0,58) (ε = 0,8)
60 Offwhite paint (α = 0,34) (ε = 0,9)
White paint (α = 0,28) (ε = 0,91)

Water temperature (°C)

50

40

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30

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20
(a)
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
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20
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32
34
Time of the day (h)

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70
α = 0,9

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α = 0,8
α = 0,6
60
α = 0,4
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Water temperature (°C)

α = 0,2
50
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40

30
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20
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(b)
0
2
4
6
8
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Time of the day (h)

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100
ε = 0,8
ε = 0,7
90
ε = 0,5
80 ε = 0,3

Water temperature (°C)

ε = 0,2
70

60

50

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40

30

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20 (c)
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
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18
20
22
24
26
28
30
32
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Time of the day (h)

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Fig. 7. a) Effect of painted receiver b,c) Water outlet temperature of TSC affected by different absorbtivities–emissivities.

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10 2,2
30 hwind (FPC)
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28 hwind (TSC)
Wind heat transfer coefficient (W/m K)

Overall heat loss transfer coeffiecient UL (TSC) (W/m K)

Overall heat loss transfer coeffiecient UL (FPC) (W/m K)
26 UL (FPC, β = 0°)

2
9 2,0
2
2

24 UL (FPC, β = 30°)
22 UL (TSC)
20 8 1,8
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18
16
14 7 1,6
12
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10
8 6 1,4
6
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4
5 1,2
2
(a)
0
0

Wind speed (m/s)

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5,25
1,26

Overall heat loss transfer coeffiecient UL (FPC) (W/m K)

Overall heat loss transfer coeffiecient UL (TSC) (W/m K)

β = 0°

2
β = 10° 1,24
5,20 β = 20°
1,22
β = 30°
1,20
5,15
1,18
1,16
5,10 1,14

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1,12
5,05 1,10

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1,08
(a)
5,00 1,06
270 280 290 300 310
Ambiant temperature (K)

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Fig. 8. a) Wind and overall heat loss transfer coefficients vs. wind speed b) UL vs. ambient temperature for FPC and TSC.

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44
1200 12
42
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40
1000
Solar radiation (W/m )

Ambient temperature (°C)

2

38 10

Wind speed (m/s)

800 36
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34
32 8
600
30
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400 28 6
26
24
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200
22 4

0 20
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
32
34

Time of the day (h)

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Fig. 9. Climatology parameters.

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50
(a) Convective heat transfer
45 Radiative heat tranfer
Evaporative heat transfer

Heat transfer coefficients (W/m K)

40 Total heat transfer

2
35

30

25

20

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15

10

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5

0
0
2
4
6
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Time of the day (h)

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60
(b) Convective heat transfer

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Radiative heat tranfer
Evaporative heat transfer
50
Heat transfer coefficients (W/m K)

Total heat transfer

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2

40

30
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20
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10
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0
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
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30
32
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Time of the day (h)

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50000
Pg (PSS) (c)
Pw (PSS)
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40000 Pg (ASS)
Pw (ASS)
Pressures (N/m )
2
AC

30000

20000

10000

0
PSS: Passive solar still ASS: Active solar still
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
32
34

Time of the day (h)

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1820000
Passive still
Active still
1800000

1780000

Latent heat (J/kg)

1760000

1740000

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1720000

1700000

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(d)
1680000
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
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Time of the day (h)

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Fig. 10. Hourly variation of different heat transfer coefficients, pressures and latent heat for passive and active stills.

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90
Glass
70
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Water
80
Basin
∆Τ 60
70

Temperature difference (°C)

Temperatures (°C)

50
60
M

40
50
30
40
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30 20
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20 10

10 0
(a)
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
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20
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30
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EP

Time of the day (h)

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100
Glass
80
Water
90
Basin 70
∆Τ
80
60

Tempertures (°C)

Temperture differnce (°C)

70
50
60
40
50
30

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40 20

30 10

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20
(b) 0
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
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20
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30
32
34
Time of the day (h)

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Fig. 11. Diurnal temperature, difference temperature evolutions for the a) Passive and b) Active stills components.

0,6

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AN
3
0,5

Cumulative yield (kg/m )

2
0,4
M
Yield (kg/m )

2
2

0,3
D

0,2 1
TE

0,1

(a)
0,0 0
0
2
4
6
8
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20
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30
32
34

Time of the day (h)

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0,8
4

Cumulative yield (kg/m )

2
0,6
3
Yield (kg/m )
2

0,4
2

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0,2 1

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(b)
0,0 0
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
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20
22
24
26
28
30
32
34
Time of the day (h)

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0,9
Passive still

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0,8 Active still

0,7
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0,6
Efficiency (-)

0,5
M

0,4

0,3
D

0,2

0,1
TE

(c)
0,0
9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

Time of the day (h)

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Fig. 12. Hourly yield and cumulative distillate for a) Passive and b) Active solar distillers c) Instant change of both passive
and active efficiencies.
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Highlights

New design of solar still coupled tubular solar water heater was carried out.

An overview on solar collector cylindrical shape was presented.

Numerical quantifications and comparisons with a traditional solar sill were done.

FPC and TSC performances have been compared.

Cost estimation of the solar water collector in the Algerian raw market.

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Graphical abstract

Cylindrical solar water heater

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Double slope solar still

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U SC
Integrated solar systems
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