A novel objective function for design optimization of shell and tube heat exchangers

Design and optimization of shell and tube heat exchanger (STHX) is a challenging task for engineers. Often the optimization search space is multidimensional and several design requirements and variable limits have to be addressed. This paper introduces a new approach for integrating design efficiency constraint into the optimization cost-based objective function. This approach enables the evolutionary algorithms to better evaluate inferior and even unacceptable solutions and appropriately use them in the search for superior solutions. Adjustable parameters of the new objective function enables the engineers to apply their design preferences. Performance of the proposed objective function is examined for design optimization of a STHX in this study. Through comprehensive simulations, it is found that optimization using the proposed objective function always locates globally optimal solutions in the multidimensional search space. Furthermore, it offers alternative solutions which are more attractive in terms of total cost of STHX.