Optimizing Operational Parameters to Maximize Distillate Yield in Solar Stills: A Taguchi-Based Approach

This study investigates the enhancement of freshwater production in conventional solar stills by optimizing four operational parameters: compartmental basin design (A), basin water depth (B), cylindrical wick dimensions (C), and glass cover thickness (D). Utilizing the Taguchi method, parameter levels were systematically evaluated through an L16orthogonalarraytoidentifytheoptimalconfiguration for maximizing yield. Experimental results were analyzed using signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios, mean response analysis, ANOVA, and regression modeling. The optimal parameters identified include a 100-compartment basin, 20 mm water depth, 30 mm wick diameter, and 4 mm glass cover thickness. Basin water depth emerged as the most influential factor (48.5% contribution), followed by wick size(29.4%) and compartment count (20.6%). Regression analysis confirmed that reduced water depth, increased compartments, and larger wicks significantly improve yield. A robust solar still prototype based on these parameters achieved an experimental yield of 5,280 mL/m²·day, representing 82% of the predicted maximum (5,934 mL/m²·day). These findings demonstrate the efficacy of parameter optimization in advancing solar desalination efficiency.