Optimal design of plate heat exchangers

In the current paper, it is presented an algorithm for the optimization of heat exchange area of plate heat exchangers (PHE). The algorithm is based on the screening method. For each kind of plate, subject to certain constraints, optimal configurations are found – in case they exist – which present the lowest number of plates and, consequently, the smallest area. Each of these found configurations have local optima characteristics. For all kinds of plates considered, their respective local optima are determined. Comparison of all obtained local optima gives a global one. The differential equations, which are generated in the model development, are solved analytically. A case study is presented to test the applicability of the developed algorithm. Results show coherency with the literature.