Micro Hydroelectric Kinetic Powered Desalinator

Department of Ocean and Mechanical Engineering

Overview

Our project harnesses tidal energy using a 9-blade water wheel which is converted into electrical energy using an alternator. This stored energy powers a desalination system. The proposed desalination method is a modified version of Humidification Dehumidification Desalination (HDH) which emulates the water cycle. The salt water is turned into water vapor and sent down cooling pipes which is naturally cooled by the ocean water, causing the water vapor to condense and fresh water to form.

Community Benefit: This project will help advance knowledge in marine renewable energy and thus, help to combat climate change. The desalination technology paired with a tidal energy harnessing system will be helpful in providing more remote coastal regions with fresh water.

Click here to see tasking requirements.

Team Members

• Alejandro Alvaro
• Carlos Garriga-Dominguez
• Tyler Gilley
  
• Jared Mcfadden
• Robert Pugh
• Tyler Smith

Sponsor

Naval Engineering Education Consortium and FAU Office of Undergraduate Research and Inquiry