Hybrid Solar Deciliation Using Tubular Solar Still Integrated with Depth and Cover Cooling

A. E. Kabeel; S. W. Sharshir; G. B. Abdelaziz; M. A. Halim; A. Swidan

doi:10.53797/icccmjssh.v5isp.10.2026

Authors

A. E. Kabeel Mechanical Power Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, EGYPT
S. W. Sharshir Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Kafrelsheikh University, 33516, Kafrelsheikh, EGYPT
G. B. Abdelaziz Higher Institute of Engineering and Technology, Kafrelsheikh, EGYPT
M. A. Halim Mechanical Department, Technological Faculty in Cairo, Helwan International Technological University, Cairo, EGYPT
A. Swidan Mechanical Power Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Tanta University, Tanta, EGYPT

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53797/icccmjssh.v5isp.10.2026

Keywords:

Solar desalination, tubular solar still, water depth, cooling water flow rate, thermal performance

Abstract

Tubular solar stills (TSS) have emerged as a promising solution for freshwater production, particularly for small-scale applications in coastal and arid regions where access to reliable power sources for desalination and infrastructure for water transportation is limited. This study introduces an enhanced TSS design incorporating cover cooling to improve daily water yield. The system comprises a transparent solar tube, which maximizes solar irradiance absorption, and a black basin, which enhances heat absorption and accelerates water evaporation. The TSS was fabricated using lightweight, durable materials sourced locally to ensure cost-effectiveness and ease of deployment. Experiments were conducted to determine the optimal basin water depth (0.5 cm, 1 cm, 2 cm, and 3 cm) and cooling water flow rate (1 L/h, 2 L/h, 3 L/h, and 4 L/h). The results indicated that a lower water depth significantly enhanced performance, with a maximum productivity of 4.5 L/m² achieved at 0.5 cm depth, whereas a depth of 3 cm yielded only 3 L/m². Additionally, the optimal cooling water flow rate was found to be 2 L/h. Under these conditions, the system achieved its highest efficiency of 54.9%. Compared to a TSS without cooling, the proposed design demonstrated a 31.4% increase in water yield and a 32.6% improvement in efficiency. Furthermore, the daily thermal exergy efficiency improved by approximately 9%. From an economic perspective, the cost per liter of clean water was reduced from $0.023 in the conventional TSS to $0.019 in the modified system with cover cooling, highlighting its cost-effectiveness.

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