FINAL YEAR BSC MECHANICAL AND AUTOMOTIVE

ENGINEERING DEGREE PROJECT

PROJECT TITLE:

STUDY OF SOLAR WATER PUMPING SYSTEM ALONG RIVER

SABAKI FOR DOMESTIC AND IRRIGATION PURPOSES
PRESENTED BY:

LARRY TEMBO MWANGOME- BSME/0063/2019

KITHINJI MUCHUI VINCENT- BSME/186J/2018

SUPERVISED BY:
Dr. MBOTHU
DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this proposal is my original work and has not been presented for a degree in
any university.
Signature: ___________________________ Date: ___________________________
NAME: LARRY TEMBO MWANGOME
REG NO: BSME/0063/2019
Signature: ___________________________ Date: ___________________________
NAME: KITHINJI MUCHUI VINCENT
REG NO: BSME/186J/2018

BY SUPERVISOR
This project has been presented for examination with my approval as the university supervisor.
Signature:____________________________ Date:____________________________
Name: Dr Mbothu
Lecturer at the Technical University of Mombasa

ACKNOWLEDGMENT
We wish to express our sincere and profound gratitude to the Almighty God for His mercies,
grace and guidance. We also wish to acknowledge our family, friends, and colleagues for their
continued support and input throughout this journey. We truly appreciate you all.
Contents
DECLARATION..............................................................................................................................................2
ACKNOWLEDGMENT...................................................................................................................................3
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................7
1.1 General Introduction..........................................................................................................................7
1.2 Introduction to Solar Pumping System..............................................................................................7
1.3 Introduction to Sabaki River..............................................................................................................8
1.4 Problem Statement.............................................................................................................................8
1.5 Objective of The Study......................................................................................................................9
1.5.1 Main Objective...........................................................................................................................9
1.5.2 Specific Objectives.....................................................................................................................9
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW............................................................................................10
2.1 Literature Review on Solar Powered Pumping System....................................................................10
2.2 Principle of Operation......................................................................................................................12
2.3 Literature Review on Sabaki River and Neighbouring Communities and Water Needs/Usage.......12
CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY..................................................................................................14
3.1 General Introduction to Methodology........................................................................................14
3.2 Market Survey...........................................................................................................................14
3.2.1 Research Study.........................................................................................................................14
3.3 Legal Framework.............................................................................................................................15
3.3.1 NEMA-Natural Environment Management Authority..............................................................15
3.3.2 WRMA-Water Resource Management Authority.....................................................................15
3.3.4 EMCA-Environmental Management Coordination Act............................................................15
3.3.5 MENR-Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources..................................................15
3.3 The Proposed Design Components..................................................................................................16
3.4 Theoretical Analysis..................................................................................................................16
3.4.1 Water Requirement...................................................................................................................16
3.4.2 Water Source............................................................................................................................16
3.4.3 Water Storage...........................................................................................................................17
3.4.4 Solar Isolation...........................................................................................................................17
3.4.5 Pump sizing and selection.........................................................................................................18
3.4.6 Photovoltaic array sizing:.........................................................................................................21
3.4.7 Solar Charge Controller............................................................................................................21
 3.5 Working Principle......................................................................................................................22
CHAPTER FOUR: TECHNICAL DESIGN.............................................................................................23
4.1 Storage Tank....................................................................................................................................23
4.2 Solar Peak Hours.............................................................................................................................23
4.3 Design Flow Rate of the Pump........................................................................................................23
4.4 Total Dynamic Head for the Pump (TDH).......................................................................................25
4.5 Pump power.....................................................................................................................................25
4.6 PV Module Sizing and Selection.....................................................................................................26
4.7 Selection of solar charge controller.................................................................................................26
4.8 Reservoir Construction....................................................................................................................26
4.9 Array mounting bracket and rack.....................................................................................................26
4.10 Float switch...................................................................................................................................27
CHAPTER 5: COST ESTIMATES...........................................................................................................32
5.1 Capital Cost.....................................................................................................................................32
5.2 Maintenance cost.............................................................................................................................32
5.3 Labor Cost.......................................................................................................................................32
CHAPTER SIX: PLANNING...................................................................................................................34
6.1 BUDGET.........................................................................................................................................34
6.2 TIME PLAN....................................................................................................................................35
CHAPTER SEVEN: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION.......................................................36
7.1 Conclusion.......................................................................................................................................36
7.2 Recommendations...........................................................................................................................36
REFERENCES:.....................................................................................................................................38
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. CAD Schematic Layout of a Solar Powered Pumping System........................................8
Figure 2. PV solar cell, PV solar panel and PV panel array (Morales, p. 2019).............................9
Figure 3. Global Solar Powered System Market Volume by Product, 2022 (Reuters, 2019).......11
Figure 4. Malindi Solar Isolation obtained from PVsyst software................................................13
Figure 5. Flow diagram..................................................................................................................18
Figure 6. aluminum ground mount systems (Davis and Shirtliff).................................................22
Figure 7. Float Switch....................................................................................................................23
Figure 8. Datasheet for DAYLIFF D3 Solar Pump (Dayliff, 2019)..............................................24
Figure 9. Graph of Pump Head against Flow Rate of DAYLIFF D3 Solar Pump (Dayliff, 2019)
.......................................................................................................................................................24
Figure 10. Datasheet for Various Solar Powered Pumps (Dayliff, 2019).....................................24

ACRONYMS

A-Amperes

V-Voltage

TDH-Total Dynamic Head

MPPT- Maximum Power Point Tracking

PV-Photovoltaic

PVC-Polyvinylchloride

DC-Direct Current

AC-Alternating Current

BOS-Balance of System
 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
This chapter gives an overall preface of the project. It contains the general introduction,
introduction to solar pumping system, introduction to Sabaki River, problem statement and
objectives of the study.
1.1 General Introduction
Water pumping worldwide is generally dependent on conventional electricity or diesel
generated electricity. Solar water pumping will minimize the dependence on diesel, gas or
coal-based electricity. The use of diesel-based water pumping systems requires not only
expensive fuels, but also create noise and air pollution. The overall upfront cost, operation
and maintenance cost, and replacement of a diesel pump are 2–4 times higher than a solar
photovoltaic (PV) pump (Chandel, Naik and Chandel, 2015). Solar pumping systems are
environment friendly and require low maintenance with no fuel cost. Keeping in view the
absence of grid electricity in rural and remote areas in most parts of world, PV pumping is
one of the most promising applications of solar energy. The technology is similar to any
other conventional water pumping system except that the power source is solar energy. The
flow rate of pumped water is dependent on incident solar radiation and size of PV array. A
properly designed PV system results in significant long-term cost savings as compared to
conventional pumping systems. In addition, tanks can be used for water storage in place of
requirement of batteries for electricity storage. Water requirement is largely dependent on
rains and is adversely affected by the non-availability of water during dry season. However,
maximum solar radiation is available during dry spell where more water can be pumped to
meet water requirements. The study focuses on use of solar powered pumps technology,
performance evaluation, optimal sizing, economic and environmental aspects, and viability
of PV water pumping systems along river Sabaki. The main objective of the study is to
present current research status, and identify research gaps and impediments in the widespread
propagation of solar water pumping technology. The strategy and policy issues for the
promotion of PV water pumping are also presented.

1.2 Introduction to Solar Pumping System

Solar pumping system mainly consist of PV modules, solar pumping inverters/controllers and
pumps. These components function as follows;

 Solar Module-generate electricity

  Solar pumping inverter/controller-convert solar energy, control and run the pumping
system by making full use of solar energy.
 Pump-raise water to a suitable level
 Other components include:
 Mounting Bracket to fix the solar panel
 Junction box which is a combination of DC fuse, DC circuit-breaker and other
components to protect the solar module
 Outdoor Cabinet-IP54, waterproof for outdoor installation

1.3 Introduction to Sabaki River

The Athi-Galana-Sabaki River is the second longest river in Kenya (after Tana River). It
has a total length of 390km and drains an area of 70,000km2 (Whitehead, 1960). The river rises at
1 42’S as Athi River and enters Indian Ocean as the Galana River (Sabaki River).

The Athi River flows across the Kapote and Athi plains, through Athi River town, then
takes a northern direction where it is met by the Nairobi River. It also joins with Mbagathi River
which originates from Ngong hills. Near Thika the river forms the Fourteen Falls and turns
south-south-east under the wooded slopes of the Yatta ridge, which shuts in its basin on the east.
Apart from the numerous small feeders of the upper river, almost the only tributary is the Tsavo
River, from the east side of Kilimanjaro, which enters at about 3° S. It then turns east, and in its
lower course is known as the Sabaki (or Galana) River, which traverses the sterile quartz-land of
the outer plateau. Flowing east, it enters the Indian Ocean in 3° 10′ S., 10 km north of Malindi
town.

1.4 Problem Statement

Area along River Sabaki in Kilifi County does not receive continuous rainfall across the year to
sustain water needs by the neighboring community. In fact, for nearly five months (from
December to April) this area experiences dry spell. However, there is more than sufficient water
in River Sabaki that is underutilized and flows to the ocean. To curb water shortages, an efficient
solar powered pump should be installed and solar energy harnessed to pump this water for use by
the community.
1.5 Objective of The Study
1.5.1 Main Objective
The aim of the project is to design a Solar Powered Pumping System as a means of availing
water for use along River Sabaki in Kilifi County.

1.5.2 Specific Objectives

i. To identify key factors that affect the design of a solar powered pumping system along
Sabaki River.
ii. To determine and design system specifications which comprises of the pump, the PV
modules, charge controllers and the amount of water required.
iii. Assess the cost of equipment and installation of the Solar Powered pumping system.
 CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
This chapter describes the theoretical content that gives information on basic requirements of
solar powered pumping systems. It also describes working principle of various parts of SPPS. It
also describes River Sabaki as the source of water for our projects and the various water needs
by the neighboring community along the target area.
2.1 Literature Review on Solar Powered Pumping System
Due to the limited size of the solar cell it only delivers a limited amount of power under fixed
current voltage conditions that are not practical for most applications. In order to use solar
electricity for practical devices which require a particular voltage and/or current for their
operation, a number of solar cells have to be connected together to form a solar module, also
called a PV module. For large-scale generation of solar electricity, solar panels are connected
together into a PV array. Although the solar panels are the heart of a PV system, many other
components are required for a working system, as said very briefly above. Together, these
components are called the balance of system (BOS). Which components are required depends
on whether the system is connected to the electricity grid or whether it is designed as a
stand-alone system. The most important components belonging to the BOS are (refer to Fig. 2):

 A mounting structure in order to fix the modules and direct them towards the sun.
There are two ways to mount solar modules: either on a fixed structure or on a tracking
structure. Fixed mounts are less expensive and tolerate higher wind loading but have to
be carefully oriented so they face true south (not magnetic south). A tracking array
follows the sun across the sky.
 Energy storage as a vital part of stand-alone systems, because it assures that the
system can deliver electricity during the night and in periods of bad weather. Usually,
batteries are used as energy storage units.
 DC-DC converters in order to convert the module output, which will have a
variable voltage depending on the time of the day and weather conditions, to a
compatible output voltage that can be used as input for an inverter in a grid- connected
system.
 Inverters that are used in grid-connected systems to convert the DC electricity
originating from the PV modules into AC electricity that can be fed into the electricity
grid. Many inverters have a DC-DC converter included to convert the variable voltage
 of the PV array to a constant voltage that is the input for the actual DC-AC converter.
Also stand-alone systems may have an inverter that is connected to the batteries. The
design of such an inverter differs considerably from that for a grid-connected system.
 Charge controllers that are used in stand-alone systems to control charging and often
also discharging of the battery. They prevent the batteries from being overcharged and
also from being discharged via the PV array during night. High end charge controllers
also contain DC-DC converters together with a maximum power point tracker in order
to make the PV voltage and current independent from the battery voltage and current.
 Cables that are used to connect the different components of the PV system with each
other and to the electrical load. It is important to choose cables of sufficient thickness in
order to minimize resistive losses.
 Pump DC water pumps in general use one-third to one-half the energy of conventional
AC (Alternating Current) pumps. DC pumps are classed as either displacement or
centrifugal, and can be either submersible or surface types. Displacement pumps use
diaphragms, vanes or pistons to seal water in a chamber and force it through a discharge
outlet. Centrifugal pumps use a spinning impeller that adds energy to the water and
pushes into the system, similar to a water wheel. Submersible pumps, placed down a
well or sump, are highly reliable because they are not exposed to freezing temperatures,
do not need special protection from the elements, and do not require priming. Surface
pumps, located at or near the water surface, are used primarily for moving water through
a pipeline. Some surface pumps can develop high heads and are suitable for moving
water long distances or to high elevations.

Float switch a float switch turns a pump on and off when filling the storage water tank. It’s
similar to the float in a toilet tank but is wired to the pump controller. Low water cut-off
electrodes protect the pump from low water conditions in the pond.
Figure 1. CAD Schematic Layout of a Solar Powered Pumping System
2.2 Principle of Operation
The PV modules supply electricity to inverter

The inverter converts DC to AC to drive the pump according to intensity of sunshine.

Advantages of solar pumping system

 Auto-operation, labor free.

 Suitable to all kinds of pumps, including 3-Phase and single-Phase AC and DC
pumps.
 Wide range of input voltage, suitable to different PV modules Modular design, easy
to maintain international advanced components, safe and reliable.
 Solar and mains power hybrid, 24 hours operation, remote control and monitor
customized solutions.

2.3 Literature Review on Sabaki River and Neighbouring Communities and Water Needs/Usage
Sabaki River drains into the Indian Ocean at a basin area of 70,000km 2. Its waters are usually of
low saline level, though contains sediments and rock particles, it can be filtered for use. The
rivers flows on almost flat area hence does not require a very high pumping mechanism to supply
water to the neighboring community. The community that live along the area of study are
Mijikendas. Some of the families practice small scale agriculture hence require water to water
their crops during non-rainy season. Expanding water supply is a key mitigation strategy for
small scale farmers (International Solar Energy Society, 2019). Additionally, water is also
required for both human and livestock drinking. Hence, solar water pumping is a mature,
reliable, economically attractive solution to water shortages for irrigation, livestock and
community water supply.

Individual PV solar cells are the fundamental building blocks of the solar panel. In general PV
cells are smaller in size and produce about one watt power. An individual solar cell produces a
voltage of 0.5 to 0.6V. In order to get sufficient output voltage, PV cells are connected in series
to form a PV module. PV systems are frequently functioned at multiples of 12 volts; modules are
usually designed for optimal operation in these systems. While PV cells are connected in series,
the output current remains the same but the output voltage will be the total summation of all cells
formed the module. Schematic diagram on how PV cells connect to form module as well as
modules to form array.

Figure 2. PV solar cell, PV solar panel and PV panel array (Morales, p. 2019)
 CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY
3.1 General Introduction to Methodology
This chapter gives an explanation of sequence of the techniques we will use to achieve the
objectives of the project, the legal frame work and how it will work
3.2 Market Survey
Solar water pumping System is a mature, reliable, and economically attractive solution for off
grid irrigation, livestock water, and community water supply (Kunen et al., 2018). With
increasing reliance on water pumping for food security needs, and limited access to other energy
sources for community along River Sabaki, there is growth in market for Solar Powered
Pumping Systems. Financial, managerial, technical, market access and education challenges
exists. Public-private partnership have adopt the system since it is cost effective, increases
reliability of SPPS and improve technology access through innovative financial models. These
models help accelerate SPPS along the target area and Kenya at large.

3.2.1 Research Study

According to Reuters (2019), SPPS is expected to grow rapidly over the years. This has been
fueled by growing preference towards solar pumps than diesel pumps and increase in demand for
automated pump systems. Additionally, there is less availability of diesel pump spare parts and
high capital investment. SPPS are adopted in areas where water is scarce, insufficient electricity
supply and erratic rainfall.

Based on product, demand for AC Submerged pumps is rapidly growing since it function to
pump water from wells and river sources. Along River Sabaki, there is abundant solar energy
with a huge tapping potential. The government also offers support in terms of financial
incentives hence promoting SPPS market growth.
 350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

DC Surface Suction AC Submersible DC Submersible AC floating

Figure 3. Global Solar Powered System Market Volume by Product, 2022 (Reuters, 2019)
3.3 Legal Framework
Describes various government policies, institutional and legislative framework that addresses
establishment of development programs that have an impact on environment and the ecosystem
along natural resources such as rivers and lakes
3.3.1 NEMA-Natural Environment Management Authority
This is a body that promote the integration of environmental considerations into development
policies, plans, programs and projects, with a view to ensuring the proper management and
rational utilization of environmental resources, on sustainable yield basis, for the improvement of
quality of human life in Kenya
3.3.2 WRMA-Water Resource Management Authority
This is a body based in Machakos, Kenya that functions to provide historical discharge
observation and gauge height data for the sampling.
3.3.4 EMCA-Environmental Management Coordination Act
An Act of 2009 that was enacted to provide appropriate legal and institutional framework for the
management of the environmental and for matters connected therewith and incidental thereto.
3.3.5 MENR-Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources
3.3 The Proposed Design Components
The following parameters will be used in the design of an economical Solar Powered Pumping
System;

 The site-specific solar energy available in the area,

 Volume of water required at a specific time and that in the storage tank (storage volume
equal to a 3 day water requirement capacity is recommended due to system maintenance
and cloud days),
 Pump sizing and selection considering the Total Dynamic Head (TDH) for the pump (the
equivalent height that water must be raised, taking frictional losses in the pipes into
account) and the discharge rate,
 Quality and quantity of available water taking into consideration the water source
seasonal changes.
 Piping Layout system and pipe size selection.
 Photovoltaic Module sizing (area of cells exposed to the sunlight), the total power and
energy consumption of all loads
 Selection of solar charge controller,
 Reservoir construction (we will construct a well and a shallow tunnel beside the river for
storing water during seasonal changes)
 Mounting bracket and rack
 Float switch.

3.4 Theoretical Analysis

The following parameters are used in the analysis of the solar powered water pumping system:

3.4.1 Water Requirement

Assuming a unit system intends to serve 100 homes each with an average water requirement of
100 litres per day, that amounts to:
100homes X 100litres/home/day = 10000litres/day = 10m3 /day

3.4.2 Water Source

Our water source for this project is river Sabaki, having a total length of 390km and drains an
area of 70,000km2 (Whitehead, 1960), which flows constantly thought the year. It has also a
sufficient depth hence there is no need of creating a reservoir.
3.4.3 Water Storage
A tank will be used to store enough water during peak energy production to meet water needs in
the event of cloudy weather or maintenance issues with the power system. Ideally, the tank
should be sized to store at least a three-day water supply. Multiple tanks may be required if a
very large volume of water is to be stored The area where the tank is to be placed must be
stripped of all organic material, debris, roots, and sharp objects, such as rocks. The ground
should then be leveled. An elevated platform or stand is required to provide adequate gravity
induced pressure for the water delivery system to operate. For this system an elevated platform
of concrete 1.5 meter height is chosen to provide the adequate gravity. Since the water
requirement is 10m3, 3 tanks of capacity 10m3 are selected.

3.4.4 Solar Isolation

Solar isolation values for Malindi are obtained from the PVsyst software as shown

Figure 4. Malindi Solar Isolation obtained from PVsyst software

For this case, the average of all twelve months is what I used since the values are relatively close.
3.4.5 Pump sizing and selection
Pump performance depends variedly on how much water the pump is moving and the pressure it
is creating. Pump characteristics allow you to control the operation of the pump. The primary
relationship worth noting is the fact that, as the flow increases, the fluid pressure decreases.

a) Flow rate of the liquid required to be pumped is determined by the amount of water
needed i.e. the demand obtained by

…………………………………….1
Where; Q is the daily water demand (liters/hour)

b) Total differential head (TDH) is determined by the flowrate required and the system itself.
It has two components, the static head across the pump (𝐻𝑠𝑡) and the total head loss (𝐻L). It’s
given by:

𝑇𝐷𝐻 = 𝐻𝑠𝑡 + 𝐻L……………………………………………………………….2

c) Static head difference which is the difference between the discharge static head and the
suction static head i.e.

Static head difference = discharge static head – suction static head

Where;

 Discharge static head = Discharge vessel gas pressure head + elevation of discharge
pipe outlet – elevation of pump center line

 Suction static head = Suction vessel gas pressure head + elevation of suction vessel
liquid surface – elevation of pump center line

d) Total head loss

The total energy losses in the entire pipeline system includes friction losses, Hf , and minor
losses, Hm, from bends, valves, meters, exit and entrance losses. The friction losses are
determined by: pipe (inside) diameter, length of the pipe, the flow rate and the pipe’s
roughness.
 The head lost due to friction within the pipes can be determined using the Hazen- Williams
flow resistance formula for steady uniform flow (Lamont, 1981).

The Hazen-Williams equation:

It was developed for water flow in larger pipes (diameters > 5cm) within a moderate range of
water velocity (V <3m/s) Where Q is the flow rate, 𝑑h is the hydraulic diameter, R is the
hydraulic radius.

………………….3

…………………………………………………………4

Hazen-Williams coefficient, C, which depends on surface roughness, is determined using

Reynold’s number.

For total loss to be determined, the following parameters need to be known:

 Length of the pipes

 Diameters of the pipes
 Number and types of fittings (valves, bends etc.)

e) The actual head gained by the fluid (generated by the pump), HP, Can be determined using
Bernoulli’s equation as follows:

Where 𝐻L (𝑝𝑢𝑚𝑝) is the head that is lost during the pumping operation.
 ……………………6

Where is the difference in water levels between the pump sump and the header tank

f) The theoretical power gained by the fluid, 𝑃P, is given by:

𝑃P = 𝜌𝑔𝑄𝐻P…………………………………………………………… 8

This value differs from the actual power consumed by the motor driving the pump due to
mechanical losses in the bearings and seals, leakages and/or fluid friction. The static head,
Hst, which is the difference in water levels in the pond/pump sump and header tank together
with HL, are system characteristics forming the equation:

…………………………………………………….9

This is the equation that manufacturers use to generate the pump system curve as well as the
pump curve from the equation:

……………………………………………………………………………..10

The theoretical pump power, Pt (theoretical), is given as;

……………………………………………………………………………..11

Pump efficiency is usually given by the manufacturer but can also be given by:

……….12
3.4.6 Photovoltaic array sizing:
The efficiency of the PV module relates to the area of active cells exposed to the sunlight.
Monocrystalline are the most efficient, converting approximately 15 percent of the sun’s energy
to electricity, but they are also the most expensive of the three. Photovoltaic modules have
typical warranties of 20 to 25 years, with life expectancies approaching 30 years. A factor of
1.25 times the pump wattage requirements is often used to determine the preliminary size of the
required array. This accounts for the energy losses in the modules and controller.

1) The total power and energy consumption of all the loads that need to be supplied by the
solar power system is given as:

𝑀𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑚𝑢𝑚 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑑 = 𝑝𝑒𝑎𝑘 𝑝𝑢𝑚𝑝 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 × 𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑜𝑟
𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑠…………………………………………13

2) The size of the PV modules is determined by (Morales, T., & Busch, J. 2010).

3.4.7 Solar Charge Controller.

The solar charge controller is rated against Amperage and Voltage capacities. It is selected to
match the voltage of the PV array and batteries. The size collection is based on the short circuit
current of the PV array

Solar Charge controller rating=Total short circuit current of PV array ×1.3 … ..15
3.5 Working Principle

Figure 5. Flow diagram

 CHAPTER FOUR: TECHNICAL DESIGN
4.1 Storage Tank.
Since water requirement in 3 days is about 9m3 a 10m3 storage tank would be sufficient for water
storage.

Tank selected is a plastic cylindrical Roto tank with a capacity of 10,000L (262mmx209mm).

4.2 Solar Peak Hours

Average solar peak hours for the day are calculated using values obtained in Fig. 3 as:

Design. However, there exists a slight difference between the highest and lowest value hence the
need to have considerations in pump selection.

4.3 Design Flow Rate of the Pump

The pump’s design flow rate is based on equation 1
  Static Head Difference

Since the pump is submersible, the suction head is zero and the delivery head is 10metres

 Head Loss

The pipe material that was selected was PVC pipes which have considerably low friction losses,
making them a suitable choice for long pipes because lower friction losses leads to a reduced
pump size and subsequent energy consumption. (Davis & Shirtliff, 2014 product manual, page
291)

Using Hazen-Williams equation, (equation 4) head loss, assuming the delivery of the pump will
use a bigger pipe diameter (pipe length =10m), generated is tabulated below;

D (m) 𝝑 ( 𝒎/ 𝒔𝒆𝒄) HL(m)

0.025 0.049 24.6906214

0.032 0.030 7.4285134

0.04 0.019 2.5083391

0.05 0.012 0.8469750

0.063 0.008 0.2751172

0.075 0.005 0.1177873

0.09 0.004 0.048512

0.11 0.003 0.0182731

0.16 0.001 0.0029516

0.2 0.001 0.0009967

Table 4: head loss for different pipe diameters, length = 6m, Q = 0.544m3/hr.

 Pressure Head
For this case, the pressure head was assumed to be negligible since the delivery point is a tank
and pressure delivery is not necessary.

 Pipe Size Selection

The pipe diameter selected was 40mm/0.040m. The smaller diameters were selected because for
long pipes, the piping cost can be considerably more expensive than the pumping installation and
a pipe size smaller matched to a larger sized pump can reduce the investment cost (Davis &
Shirtliff 2014 product manual page 289) but increases the running cost.

4.4 Total Dynamic Head for the Pump (TDH)

TDH= Vertical lift + Pressure head+ friction loss

Pump Selection

Total Differential Head = 12.51m

Pump Flow Rate=

The pump can be selected by comparing the design flow rate and TDH calculated. From the
above calculations, market research of different companies favors the DAYLIFF D3 Solar Pump
from Davis and Shirtliff Company (Dayliff, 2019) which I selected. It has the following technical
specifications:

4.5 Pump power

Theoretical pump power

Pump efficiency is given by;

Actual pump power required is 160W

4.6 PV Module Sizing and Selection

Minimum power needed to operate the pump =

A single PV panel of 195W is sufficient. Open circuit voltage of 43V and short circuit current of
5.17A.

4.7 Selection of solar charge controller

The pump is supplied with a self-contained multifunction MPPT (Maximum Power Point
Tracking) controller that tracks the solar module's maximum power output voltage which varies
with module temperature and irradiation levels. This ensures maximum current output, typically
+25% higher than conventional module controllers and a similar increase in daily water output.
The controller also protects from over and under voltage, over current and low water level (if
electrodes are fitted) and features various indicator lights that give the pump’s operating status.

Short circuit control rating=𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑐𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑢𝑖𝑡 𝑐𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑃𝑉 𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑎𝑦 × 1.25

=5.17×1.5=6.4625A

4.8 Reservoir Construction

A circular well is dug close to the river and a shallow tunnel dug to direct water from the river
into the well. Both the well and the shallow tunnel are reinforced with cravats of diameters 1m
and 0.4m to prevent them from collapsing. A siltation point is left at the center of the shallow
channel to allow settling of collected sediments. A wire gauge is also fitted at the entry point of
water from the river to prevent large solid particles from entering into the reservoir.

4.9 Array mounting bracket and rack

The PV array needs to be mounted securely to a tilted rack that is fixed to the ground. If the
modules are fixed, the orientation of the tilt is to the south and should be equal to the site
latitude. A well designed solar support structure is of paramount importance to the long term
performance of any solar system. Both rooftop and ground mounted solar arrays have to endure
substantial forces including not only the weight of the panels but high wind loads as well.
Aluminum structures are suitable for installation heights up to 3m.

Figure 6. aluminum ground mount systems (Davis and Shirtliff).

4.10 Float switch
Paddle type float switch with weight and 3m PVC cable. The switch is suitable for both high
level and low level control according to the wiring connections.
 Figure 7. Float Switch

Figure 8. Datasheet for DAYLIFF D3 Solar Pump (Dayliff, 2019)

Figure 9. Graph of Pump Head against Flow Rate of DAYLIFF D3 Solar Pump (Dayliff, 2019)

Figure 10. Datasheet for Various Solar Powered Pumps (Dayliff, 2019)

OPERATING CONDITIONS
Pumped Liquid thin, clean, chemically non-aggressive liquids
with a sand content of less than 0.1%

Liquid Temperature +40C

Minimum immersion depth 0.5m

Maximum immersion depth 20m

Ambient temperature -20C - +50C

Minimum borehole diameter 125mm

PUMP INFORMATION

Model D3SOLAR120H

Type Helical Rotor

Dimensions (mm) DN 3/4"

Motor rating (W) 120

Dimension(mm) D 820

Input Power Required (W) 160

Input Voltage (V) 24

Dimension(mm) C 76

Weight (kg) 12
PV MODULE DATA

Model YL 195

Rated Power(W) 195

Nominal Voltage 24

Peak Voltage (V) 35

Open Circuit Voltage(V) 43

Short circuit Current(A) 5.17

Number of cells 72

Weight (kg) 14
 CHAPTER 5: COST ESTIMATES
This chapter describes the cost analysis carried out to analyze the feasibility of SPP. These costs
include the capital cost and the future costs, which include the operating cost, maintenance cost
and the replacement cost. The calculations are carried without considering the government
subsidy and other benefits of solar power installations.

5.1 Capital Cost.

The capital cost occurs once at the beginning of the project. It comprises the cost of the
equipment and accessories, the cost of the installation and the cost of transport.

5.2 Maintenance cost

There are maintenance and replacement of the pumping systems applicable. The maintenance
schedule and details are dependent on the technology employed. The service interval depends on
the pump system used, water quality and depth of installation. The replacement costs for the
motor, pump and controller are equivalent to the initial purchase cost. An overhaul includes the
tasks of a minor and major service, replacements of parts and requires skilled personnel.

5.3 Labor Cost.

Labor cost is evaluated using total working hours according to the time needed for the project.

Item DESCRIPTION UNITS RATE COST(ksh)

2 Aluminum Ground Mount 1 36000 36000

Systems

3 Dayliff 195W 1 12700 12700

Multicrystalline Solar
Module 24VDC
4 DAYLIFF D3 Solar Pump + 1 100900 100900
Controller

7 wiring 10m 150 1500

8 PVC pipe D40 100 48 4800

9 Installation of SPPS 1 10000 10000

10 Well 1 1000 1000

11 10m3 Storage tank 1 98,650 98,650 (VAT

Inclusive)

12 Float switch 2 1000 2000

13 Binding wire 1 500 500

14 Steel bars 20m 500 10000

14 Cement 4 650 2600

16 Ballast 1 lorry 5000 5000

17 Sand 1 lorry 5000 5000

18 Wood 1’’x3’’ 20m 200 4000

19 Elbow joints pipe 3 150 450

TOTAL 295100
 CHAPTER SIX: PLANNING
6.1 BUDGET
This section will give a short list of the cost of components and materials needed to be assembled
for the proposed design
Item DESCRIPTION UNITS RATE COST (ksh)

1 Aluminum Ground Mount 1 36000 36000

Systems

2 Dayliff 195W 1 12700 12700

Multicrystalline Solar
Module 24VDC

3 DAYLIFF D3 Solar Pump + 1 100900 100900

Controller

4 wiring 10m 150 1500

5 PVC pipe D40 100 48 4800

6 Installation of SPPS 1 10000 10000

7 Well 1 1000 1000

8 10m3 Storage tank 1 98,650 98,650 (VAT

Inclusive)

9 Float switch 2 1000 2000

10 Binding wire 1 500 500

11 Steel bars 20m 500 10000

12 Cement 4 650 2600

13 Ballast 1 lorry 5000 5000

14 Sand 1 lorry 5000 5000

15 Wood 1’’x3’’ 20m 200 4000

16 Elbow joints pipe 3 150 450

TOTAL 295100

6.2 TIME PLAN

ITEM ACTIVITY TIME FRAME

JUNE – JULY AUGUST – OCTOBER-

2023 SEPTEMBER NOVEMBER
2023 2023

1 PRESENTATION OF THE
PROJECT PROPOSAL

2 LITREATURE REVIEW
AND DEVELOPMENT OF
METHODOLOGY

3 MARKET SURVEY AND

RESEACH STUDY

4 ANALYSIS OF THE
RESULTS

5 ASSEMBLY OF THE
PROJECT

6 DRY TESTING OF THE

PROJECT
 CHAPTER SEVEN: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
7.1 Conclusion
The crucial objective of this study was to design a solar powered pumping system along Sabaki
River. This was met after identification of key factors that affect the design of solar powered
pumping system such as solar insolation, the determination and design of system specifications
which comprised of the pump, the PV modules, and the charge controllers.

The obtained climatic data on the site as well the pumping requirements of the available solar
pumps in the market reveal that solar power as an alternative source of energy, is a viable
solution for the water abstraction problems along Sabaki River.

The solution offered was that of a D3SOLAR120H, 24V pump powered by a 195W solar panel
operating during the day. The overhead tank which will be fitted 7m above the ground level will
have a storage capacity of 10000L.

It is expected that once this project is adopted and implemented, it will be able to provide a
continuous supply of water for use by the community along River Sabaki as well as relief them
the burden of fetching water from the river and the risk of hippopotamus.

7.2 Recommendations
The pump should be specifically designed for solar power. It is strongly recommended to
purchase the pump controller from the same manufacturer as the pump. Using another
manufacturer could cause several unforeseen problems and even invalidate the pump’s warranty.
If the pump does not contain a built-in check valve, one should be installed to keep the water
from flowing back into the well. Very few pumps can handle reverse flow without reducing the
life expectancy of the pump. Pumps that are designed to drain during non-operation are meant
for extremely cold conditions to keep water from freezing in the lines. The pump should be set
no deeper than 2 feet above the bottom of the well to help prevent heavy silt and sand from
entering the pump’s intake and causing it to seize. The storage tank should be sized to hold at
least three days’ worth of water demand to account for evenings and cloudy days. If the
controller is not attached to the array mounting bracket it can be placed in a secure shed or pump
house, preferably water tight and dust free. Periodic cleaning of the well to remove silt and other
solid sediments.
Upon the completion of the technical and economical study of the solar powered pumping
system along river Sabaki and designing the system will:

1) Solve water shortage problems due to availability of back up water around the area
during the dry seasons.
2) Lead to utilization of the available solar radiation to power the pumps since the area is
not connected to the main electricity power grid.
3) Lead to conservation of the environment since solar power does not pollute the
environment unlike diesel powered pumps.
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