Abstract

In this study pilot-scale tap water distillation unit has been constructed and operated. The special feature of this unit is its ability to save tap water used to condense steam produced in tap water distillation units. Prior to our work hot tap water was conventionally being rejected to the drain. That resulted the waste of tap water as well as heat load on the distillers. In our approach we have made a provision of recycling part of the tap water back to the boiler and part of it to the air cooling tower where it exchanges heat with the atmospheric air. The cooler tap water is then returned to the boiler. Our approach has resulted in the significant savings of tap water as well as decreased heat demand in the boilers. It is estimated that about 650 kg of tap water saved per 30 kg of steam produced. By adopting our approach distilleries around the world which produce steam for distilled water as well as for extracting essential oils and perfumes from herbs/plants can become more economical and conserve significant amount of tap water especially arid countries like Saudi Arabia where water is considered a very valuable resource.