APPLICATION OF SOLAR ENERGY TO A SOLVENT RECLAMATION SYSTEM.

An analysis of an operational acetone reclamation system is performed to ascertain the possiblity of its adaptation to solar energy. The analytical model considers the use of fixed orientation commercially available flat plate solar collectors, a hot water storage tank and an oil fired auxiliary heater for retrofitting the present installation. The numerical solution of the equations indicates that annual fuel savings of up to 31 percent might be realized by the use of 16 collectors. The economic rate of return is estimated for the retrofit investment. The analysis suggests that an acceptable rate of return could be realized if the present collector cost was reduced by 65 percent.