Water Hyacinth Remover

Abstract

The aquatic plant identified as the water hyacinth spreads fast and has entered water bodies all aroundtheworld. Wheneveritexpandsunchecked,itclogs lakes and rivers, affects local ecosystems, and produces complications for people by being in the means of transportation,boating,andfishing.Conventionalremoval techniques, including chemical treatments and hand extraction, have shown to be labour- intensive, harmful to the environment, and frequently ineffective over time. A more long-term solution to this issue is provided by mechanical water hyacinth removers, whose development and efficacy are examined in this article to address the challenges posed by water hyacinth infestations, we are developingamechatronicssystemdesignedfortheefficient removal of aquatic plants using a combinationof conveyor belts and cutters. In this paper, we have designed and fabricated a prototype of a water hyacinth remover. The design process involved creating and analysing key componentssuchastheshaft,conveyorsystem,floatersand cutters. We also designed both the primary frame and the secondary conveyor frame. The motor selection was based on detailed design calculations to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, we have integrated a wireless Wi-Fi connection to enhance operational control and monitoring of the system.

Introduction

Water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant native to South America, causes significant ecological disruption worldwide by clogging rivers and waterways, affecting navigation, oxygen levels, and aquatic life. Despite its ornamental origins, it has become a notorious invasive weed, known by various regional nicknames due to its aggressive spread and negative impact.

Current removal methods are often inefficient, costly, or environmentally harmful. This research proposes a new boat-mounted mechanical system designed to efficiently remove water hyacinth from water bodies. The system integrates mechanical components such as a cutter, conveyor belt, storage tank, floaters, propellers, and electronic controls (ESP8266 microcontroller and motor drivers). The prototype was built and tested in real conditions, demonstrating effective removal and remote operation.

The literature review highlights various approaches, including mechanical, biological, chemical control methods, and innovative uses of water hyacinth in bioremediation, biofuel, and industrial applications. The study emphasizes a sustainable, integrated approach to managing water hyacinth, balancing environmental, economic, and operational factors.

Design calculations confirm the suitability of chosen motors and components. Field tests on the Pawna River, India, confirmed the prototype’s functionality and effectiveness, showing promise for large-scale application in maintaining waterway health and supporting ecological conservation.

Conclusion

The creation of the water hyacinth remover shows how mechanical design and electronic control systems may be successfully integrated to solve the problem of removing aquaticvegetation.Thesystemachievesoperationalefficiency by fusing a well-structured bottom assembly for mobility and controlwithasturdyupperassemblyforcollectingandstorage. TheuseoftheESP8266microcontroller,L298Nmotordrivers, and 100 RPM DC motors ensure precise automation and movement. Powered by a 12V Lithium-ion cells with a regulated voltage supply, the system is reliable and adaptable for real-world applications. This work provides a practical solutiontomanagingwaterhyacinthinfestations,contributing to improved waterway maintenance and environmental management.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Swati Bhisikar, Pranjal Dhoke, Swapnil Barude, Ramkrushna Solanke. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.