Original Article
1 Department of Automotive Engineering, Dilla University, Ethiopia
2 Department of Automobile Engineering, Hindustan University, India
Correspondence: Muthiya SJ Department of Automobile Engineering, Hindustan University, India, Tel: 9094411654; E-mail: Jenoris.555@gmail.com
Received Date: July 27, 2017 Accepted Date: September 13, 2017 Published Date: September 18, 2017
Citation:Frenjo A, Wogasso A, Ravi R, et al. Designing and Developing Solar Energy Operated Water Pump for Small Scale Irrigation. Int J Chem Sci. 2017;15(4):194
Abstract
In this paper, a solar energy operated water pump is designed for a small-scale irrigation system replacing the conventional system which makes use of natural fuels that are exhaustible and non-friendly to the environment. The main concentration of implementing solar power source is because of its abundance and it is more volatile than any other fuel resources. The solar powered water pumps can be even implemented in hilly areas where transmission of power from grid is even impossible. The cost involved in solar powered water pumps is very less when compared to conventional systems. A solar water pump is designed and experimented and satisfied results are obtained.
Inc Solar energy operated water pump; Small scale irrigation system; Conventional system
Introduction
The purpose of this project is to construct solar energy operated water pump for small scale irrigation as stated in chapter one. The main contribution of the project is to; reduce the environmental pollution due to the exhausts emissions from conventional water pumps used for small scale irrigation and reducing the foreign currency by reducing the amount of conventional fuel which is imported to operate different mechanical engines including water pumps for irrigation purpose. The conventional water pump has high noise especially if it is diesel engine which affects the wild animals and migrating them from the area. In addition to that the conventional fuel which is used to operate the water pump engine should be transported to the farmer and if leaks on farm land it contaminates the farm affecting the final product. The project location is Methara town where the Kereyu tribes living around the town situated on the geographical location latitude 8.9°N and 39.92°F elevation is 1007 M above sea level. The average temperature of the town is 30.5°C and the wind is blown at a speed of 1.5 m/s to 3 m/s, average humidity of the town is 34.9%, atmospheric pressure 1008.8 pas. This town is Cloud around 25%. The area is sandy and due to this reason, the water main canal that the government was made had plastic shield to the ground to prevent the water from sink in to ground. Another feature of the water canal that the design determined is the level of water main canal is lower than the field. As a result, the canals could not supply sufficient water to the farm land and some of them are even clogged [1].
The onion need more water during the sunny day. Onion is widely grown across a range of climate but it is best when temperature is cool during early development and then warmer and sunny during maturation. Onion is recommended to be irrigated for two to three days per week and also when it is irrigated the morning is preferable than at mid-day or the warmer time of the day. Too much water is lost by evaporation if irrigation is done at the warmer day time. The below Figure 1 shows a clogged cannel [2].
Figure 1: Clogged cannel.
In order to avoid such complications and to irrigate the farmlands effectively a solar powered water pump is designed and a schematic representation of the whole plant is shown below in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Schematic of Solar powered water pumping.
Solar water pump systems: an introduction
Private households and farms need stable and consistent water supply, however this can be particularly difficult in areas far off cities where there are no regular city-like water pipe supply systems available but only resources in forms of wells deep in the ground. During hot months and in hot areas the requirement for water is high.
over, in some scarcely inhabited areas where regular irrigation for watering feels is crucial, often meager electricity infrastructure makes regular irrigation complicated, significantly driving operational and maintenance costs. Countering such complications and difficulties, solar water pumps are the optimal solution to both offset infrastructural limitations and reduce operational/ maintenance costs.
Solar water pump system – technical outline
A solar energy-powered water pump is a water pump running on the electricity that is generated by solar photovoltaic modules.
Using solar energy as power source, such solar water pumps basically consist of three main components:
1) the water pump 2) solar photovoltaic modules 3) pump controller (and inverter)
A water pump basically is an electro-mechanical device that moves water by mechanical action and powered by an electricity generating source, which can be manifold, such as diesel engines, wind power or solar energy. According to the water table level, distance to move the water and the pumping quantity requirements, different type sizes of water pumps apply.
The major pump types are surface-mounted pumps and submersible (deep-well) pumps – as shallow-well water pumping requirements are different from those for deep-well water pumping. In latter situations of wells deep in the ground, it makes much more sens to put the water pump near to the well source in order to basically push up the water.
Off Grid solar water pumping system
The water pumping amount requirements (m³/d), electricity supply and sun irradiance conditions determine the overall size of the PV system and thus the output power and quantity of solar photovoltaic modules needed.
The pump controller is another important component of the system. It matches the output and input power of the pump and solar panels and also provides voltage protection. With the pump controller the operator adjusts the pump pressure, flow, frequency, operational times etc. According to the end use requirements, there are various categories of pump controllers to choose from, depending on the solar pump motors (AC or DC).
Advanced pump controllers come with integrated inverter functions, needed for AC solar pump motors, as well as network communication functions which enable off-site supervision and operational adjustment of the solar water pump.
Applications of solar water pumps
According to each individual need, solar water pumps can be applied for a range of different purposes where pumping water is needed. Main applications include:
a) crop and plant irrigation b) drinking and cooking water supply c) swimming pools d) industrial water processing e) fountains f) irrigation for Farming g) drinking Water for Livestock h) swimming pools
Correct sizing of the pump, motor and controlling devices as well as detailed system design according to the location and usage of the solar water pump is essential to guarantee the optimal system performance and to avoid risks at water supply that may harm people, animals and crops.
Conclusion
Due to their significantly lower operational and maintenance costs, minimized environmental impacts and multi-geographic application ability, solar water pumps are particularly economic and crucial appliances especially for residents living off-grid, off-grid farmers or overall for both commercial and residential use in countries with weak electricity and water supply infrastructure.
Step 2: Parts Skill List
Standard System
The specifications of the Metal Stand (Angle), Solar Capacity, Pump output have been optimised to my desired requirements and location. Hence depending on your purpose (Residential, Commercial or Agricultural) you can either change the output of the system by adding or subtracting the solar panels inorder to increase or decrease the production of electricity. Depending on the requirement and capacity of the system, the specifications and quantity of each part could defer. This Instructable will act as a standard guide which help you in understanding how to build the Solar Panel Stand, Estimating the Number of Panels Other Parts required, Electrical Connections,etc. Hence you may have to buy parts according to your specific requirements. The main factors involved in choosing parts are: Solar Output, Cable Size, Pump: Power,voltage,current,speed,flow rate,efficiency and Pipe: Length, Diameter.
- Anti-Corrosion Paint.
- 4X 11ft I-beams.
- 2X 7ft I-beams.
- 3X 24.46ft C-channels.
- 2X19.63ft C-channels.
- 5X 20.84ft C-channels.
- 6X20.18ft C-channels.
- 21X Solar Panels
- 280W
- 35V
- 1960X990X42 (mm)
- Solar Pump System Controller
- Max Input Voltage: 238V
- Output: 3-phase(60-240V0, 3kW)
- Solar Pump
- Submersible
- 3-phase
- Output:22m^3/hr
- Cable (Depending on depth of well,etc)
- 6X Circuit Breakers.
- Concrete/Cement Mixture.
- Welding machine and welding rods.
- Screwdrivers.
- Drills.
- Wire Cutters.
- Digital Multimeter.
- Spirit Level Bottle.
- Basic Understanding of Electrical Wiring and Electronics.
- Basic Understanding of Structural Design.
- Basic Welding.
Step 3: Solar Panel Stand
The Solar Panel is a Metal framework consisting of I-beams and C-channel that help support the solar panel and keep them inclined at the required angle. In the next couple of steps, the Instructable will teach you how too setup the metal framework.
Solar Angle
But before you start building the metal stand or framework you must determine the optimum angle at which you must place you solar panels inorder to get the maximum efficiency from the solar system.
To get the best out of your photovoltaic panels, you need to angle them towards the sun. The optimum angle varies throughout the year, depending on the seasons and your location and this calculator shows the difference in sun height on a month-by-month basis.
Inorder to calculate the optimum angle I have used an online calculator which uses the location of the Solar Panel Array. Solar Panel Angle Calculator
Anti-Corrosion Paint
Before you start building the metal stand, you must paint all metal parts including I-beams, C-channel,etc with a layer of Anti-Corrosion/ Anti-Rust Paint. After doing so, you can add a layer of coloured paint to enhance the look of the Solar Panel Stand. By painting the metal stand you will prevent the metal from getting damaged due to corrosion.
3D Models/Layout Diagrams
Inorder to understand the design of the Solar Panel Stand, I have attached the 3D model and Layout diagram files.
Step 4: I-Beam Placement Foundation
Once you have determined the optimum angle at which the solar panels must be placed at, you can start building the metal stand. In this step you will need to mix concrete for the foundation.
- Start by digging a hole into the ground of the dimensions: 2ft X 2ft X 2ft.
- Add some concrete into the hole and spread it evenly.
- Place the I-beam into the hole such that it is perpendicular to the surface. Ensure that the I-beam is vertical by using a Level Bottle.
- Once 2ft of the I-beam is placed inside the hole vertically, fill the hole completely with cement.
- Do the same for another I-beam separated from the first I-beam at a distance of 24.46ft
- The total height of each I-beam from the ground surface is 11ft.
Step 6: Adding 7ft I-beam Top C-channel
In this step you will add 2 X 7ft I-beams on top of the two 11ft I-beams. You will also attach a 24.46ft C-channel to the I-beams. The procedure is specified in the layout diagram. If you do not wish to add an ’11ft7ft’ I-beam design you can instead add an 18ft I-beam.
- Place the lower Base-plate of the 7ft I-beam on top of the higher Base-plate of the 11ft I-beam.
- Make sure that the 7ft I-beam is perpendicular to the ground surface with the help of a Level Bottle.
- Follow the same steps for the placement of the Second 7ft I-beam.
- Bolt the Base-plates of the I-beams with Stainless Steel nuts and bolts or weld them together.
- Attach both sides of the 24.46ft C-channel to the top of the two 7ft I-beams respectively with the help of Stainless Steel nuts and bolts.
Off-Grid Solar Water Pumping Systems
Off-grid solar water pumping systems are self-sufficient systems that use solar energy to power water pumps for wells, irrigation, and livestock. These systems are ideal for remote locations where access to electricity is limited or non-existent.
Advantages of Off-Grid Solar Water Pumping Systems
Off-grid solar water pumping systems have several advantages over traditional water pumping systems. These advantages include:
- Cost-effective: Off-grid solar water pumping systems have lower operating costs since they do not require electricity from the grid.
- Environmentally friendly: These systems do not produce any greenhouse gas emissions, making them an eco-friendly option for water pumping.
- Reliable: Since these systems do not rely on the grid, they are not affected by power outages or blackouts.
- Low maintenance: Off-grid solar water pumping systems require minimal maintenance, making them a hassle-free option for water pumping.
Components of an Off-Grid Solar Water Pumping System
An off-grid solar water pumping system consists of several components, including:
- Solar panels: These panels are used to convert sunlight into electricity, which is then used to power the water pump.
- Water pump: This is the device that pumps water from the well or other water source.
- Controller: The controller regulates the power output from the solar panels to the water pump.
- Batteries: These are used to store excess energy generated by the solar panels for use when there is no sunlight.
Sizing an Off-Grid Solar Water Pumping System
The size of an off-grid solar water pumping system depends on several factors, including the amount of water needed, the location of the water source, and the amount of sunlight available. It is important to properly size the system to ensure that it can meet the water demands of the user.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation of an off-grid solar water pumping system should be done by a professional to ensure that the system is installed correctly and safely. Maintenance of the system is minimal and should be done on a regular basis to ensure that the system is functioning properly.
Off-grid solar water pumping systems are a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, reliable, and low-maintenance option for water pumping in remote locations. They consist of several components, including solar panels, a water pump, a controller, and batteries. Proper sizing and installation are important to ensure that the system can meet the water demands of the user.
Water Storage and Pressurization
Many conventional AC powered water systems pump water from a well or other water source into a pressure tank that stores water and stabilizes the pressure for household use. When you turn on the water in the house, an air-filled bladder in the tank forces the water into the pipes. When the pressure drops, a pressure switch turns on the pump, refilling and re-pressurizing the tank. This works because an AC pump delivers high volume and pressure on demand; however, this will not work with pumps operating directly from PV modules because the sun may not be shining when you want to take a long, hot shower.
For pumps operating directly from PV modules, a non-pressurized water tank or cistern is used to store water for usage during times when the sun is not shining. If the tank can be located above the house on a hill or on a tower, gravity can supply the water pressure.
For reasonable pressure, the tank needs to be at least 40 feet above the house, although to obtain a pressure of 30 psi will require about 70 feet of elevation.
Alternatively, a DC or AC pressure booster pump such as the Dankoff Flowlight Booster Pump, powered from a battery or inverter, can be used to maintain a pressure tank as needed from a storage tank that is filled by a solar pump during the day. You must use a pressure pump that can deliver the maximum flow rate required by the house, or have a pressure tank that is large enough to make up the difference between what the pressure pump can deliver and what is required for as long as it may be required. This is called the “draw down volume” of the pressure.
Common Solar Water Pumping FAQs
Can I use the sun to power a pump?
Any renewable energy source can produce the electricity you need to power appliances, including pumps. Solar electric cells convert sunlight into DC electricity that can be routed directly to DC appliances, stored in batteries for use when the sun is not shining, or inverted into AC electricity to power AC appliances.
Solar well pumping generally refers to the use of sunlight to power pumps, while the sun is shining. These are simple systems that do not incorporate batteries for storing electricity. In essence, the water tank or cistern acts as storage. If you can pump water fast enough and your cistern is big enough, then you do not need to pump during the night or on cloudy days.
Batteries are generally not necessary in remote water pumping situations, as long as your system is sized properly and you have enough water flow from the water source.
Is solar water pumping economically feasible?
The reliability and economy of solar electric power make it an excellent choice for powering remote water pumping. Cattle ranchers all over the world are enthusiastic solar pump users. Their water sources are often spread over many miles of rangeland where utility power is not accessible and where refueling and maintenance costs are high for generator use.
If your water source is more than 1/3 mile from utility power, solar is a favorable economic choice. This fact is substantiated by a number of rural electric cooperatives across the U.S. These co-ops actively promote the use of solar pumps because the cost of extending new power lines is prohibitive.
Where do solar pumping systems work?
Solar panels should be located in a sunny spot where no shading occurs. Altitude is not a factor, but height off the ground will affect whether or not you are able to keep them clear of snow.
Panels should be angled optimally for solar gain, particularly during the shorter winter days. If your site is in the northern hemisphere, you should point your panels to the true south. The reverse is true for places in the southern hemisphere. For many locations, there is quite a difference between magnetic south and true south, so you should consult a declination map before setting your mounting structure.
The solar panels should be tiled up from horizontal to get a better angle at the sun and to help shed rain and snow. For best year round power output, with the least amount of maintenance, you should face the solar panel(s) true south at a tilt angle equal to your latitude with respect to the horizontal position.
If you are able to adjust the solar panel seasonally, a good rule of thumb is:
Latitude minus 15 degrees in the summer
Latitude in the spring/fall
Latitude plus 15 degrees in the winter