Simulation performance of single slope solar still by using iteration method for convective heat transfer coefficient

In the present paper, an attempt has been made to simulate the performance of solar still by using iteration method for an internal convective heat and evaporative (mass) transfer coefficient which are used in basic energy balance equations. The energy balance is based on the first law of thermodynamics as a function of design and climatic parameters respectively. The internal convective heat transfer coefficient plays a significant role in the performance of solar still. The iteration method based on Kumar and Tiwari model (KTM), which has not been considered earlier by any authors, has been adopted for numerical computation for the convective heat transfer coefficient (hcw). Based on numerical computation for New Delhi climatic condition, it has been observed that the numerical values of hourly change of an internal convective heat transfer coefficient (hcw) vary between 1.3 to 1.5 W/m2 0C, after fourth iteration process which is reduced by 11.7% in comparison with the first iteration. [Display omitted] •Convective internal heat transfer coefficient for solar distillation has been evaluated by iteration method.•After fourth iteration, there is no change in numerical value of convective internal heat transfer coefficient.•Kumar and Tiwari model has no limitation as considered by unlike Dunkle model.•By proposed iteration method, there is accurate validation of hourly yield.