An evaporator and condenser unit for use in distilling a liquid, such as
water, includes a rotary heat exchanger plate having a plurality of
accordion-style folds, and having its two ends joined together so as to
give the folded plate a generally circular form. The adjacent panels of
the folded plate define spaces between their oppositely facing surfaces,
and these spaces are alternatingly configured as evaporating and
condensing chambers. The evaporating chambers have their inner edges
sealed by corresponding folds, while the condensing chambers have their
outer edges sealed by corresponding folds. The folded plate is disposed
between first and second end plates, and is mounted for rotation about its
axis in a housing having a sump containing the liquid to be distilled.
Liquid is supplied to the evaporating chambers and compressed vapor is
supplied to the condensing chambers. Condensate is removed from the
condensing chambers.
