Performance of parallel feed multiple effect evaporation system for seawater desalination

Performance analysis is presented for the parallel feed multiple effect eva poration system. Two operating modes are considered in the analysis, which includes the parallel and the parallel/cross flow systems. Analysis is perf ormed as a function of the heating steam temperature, salinity of the intak e seawater, and number of effects. Results are presented as a function of p arameters controlling the unit product cost, which includes the specific he at transfer area, the thermal performance ratio, the conversion ratio, and the specific flow rate of the cooling water. Results indicate that better p erformance is obtained for the parallel/cross flow system. However, the par allel feed system has similar characteristics and simpler design and operat ion procedures. Performance of both systems is consistent with literature d ata. Comparison of the two parallel feed systems versus conventional multis tage flash desalination and the forward feed multiple effect evaporation sc hemes show that the forward feed system has better performance characterist ics than the other three systems. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.