Study of mixed materials heat exchanger using optimization techniques

Purpose: This paper aims to examine total annual cost from economic view mixed materials heat exchangers based on three optimization algorithms. This study compares the use of three optimization algorithms in the design of economic optimization shell and tube mixed material heat exchangers. Design/methodology/approach: A shell and tube mixed materials heat exchanger optimization design approach is expanded based on the total annual cost measured by dividing the costs of the heat exchanger to area of surface and power consumption. In this study, optimization and minimization of the total annual cost is considered as the objective function. There are three types of exchangers: cheap, expensive and mixed. Mixed materials are used in corrosive flows in the heat exchanger network. The present study explores the use of three optimization techniques, namely, hybrid genetic-particle swarm optimization, shuffled frog leaping algorithm techniques and ant colony optimization. Findings: There are three parameters as decision variables such as tube outer diameter, shell diameter and central baffle spacing considered for optimization. Results have been compared with the findings of previous studies to demonstrate the accuracy of algorithms. Originality/value: The present study explores the use of three optimization techniques, namely, hybrid genetic-particle swarm optimization, shuffled frog leaping algorithm techniques and ant colony optimization. This study has demonstrated successful application of each technique for the optimal design of a mixed material shell and tube heat exchanger from the economic view point.