The mechanical vapour compression desalination system from Texas A&M University works at 171ºC (340ºF). The evaporator works on a dropwise condensation mode, which allows unusually high overall heat transfer coefficients. Working at very small temperature differentials keeps energy consumption at a minimum and produces drinking water at a low cost.
Dr Jorge Lara, researcher at Texas A&M University decided to incorporate Fluid Dynamic’s Coloid-A-Tron equipment into the 50 KGD pilot skid, which will be tested at the City of Laredo, Texas. The Coloid-A-Tron technology should prevent scaling on the active heat transfer surface of the evaporator, which operates at high temperatures.
Dr Lara said: “We are really pleased to be co-operating with Fluid Dynamics. By combining our novel technology with Fluid Dynamics extensive experience in scale prevention we believe that our evaporator could make a major contribution to supplementing the supply of drinking water around the world.”
