Innovative Azimuth Tracking for Multi-Directional Inclined Basin Solar Desalination Systems

Abstract

The paper presents a multi-directional inclined compartmental basin solar desalination system with a unique design aimed at enhancing water purification through solar energy. The system consists of a central basin surrounded by four inclined compartmental basins, each equipped with a thick glass cover of 4 mm tilted at 30° angle to facilitate condensation. Techniques such as one-step azimuth tracking are employed, where the entire setup is rotated 15° daily to optimize solar exposure, improving distillate productivity. The methodology includes the construction of basins with pyramid-like structures to concentrate solar energy, increase water temperature rapidly, and maintain it for prolonged periods. Experimental tests were conducted at different orientations (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°), measuring yields across basins and analyzing the effects of solar radiation and temperature. This innovative system, leveraging azimuth tracking and optimized basin configurations, offers a supportable solution for potable water production in solar-rich areas. The study's results show that the multi-directional solar desalination system achieved its highest yield of 20.305 liters/day at a 0° orientation, with Basin 1 (south-facing) producing 5.780 liters/day. Rotating the setup to different angles (e.g., 15°, 30°) yielded minor increases (up to 0.90%) in overall productivity due to optimized solar exposure. The findings confirm that one-step azimuth tracking enhances daily distillate production in solar-rich environments.