Thermodynamic and Economic Optimization of Plate-Fin Heat Exchangers Using the Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm

Abstract

The present study demonstrates the successful application of the grasshopper optimization algorithm (GOA) to the thermodynamic and economic modeling and optimization of cross-flow plate-fin heat exchangers with offset strip fins. To this end, the ε-NTU method was played to determine the efficiency and pressure drop. Seven parameters, namely the exchanger length at hot and cold sides, number of hot-side layers, fin frequency, fin-strip length, fin thickness, and fin height, constitute the design parameters for the optimization of the heat exchanger. The efficiency of the heat exchanger, the entropy generation, and the total annual system cost were considered the objective functions. Accordingly, the optimization of each objective function was investigated separately. The efficiency and accuracy of the proposed algorithm were validated using two examples from the literature. Comparison between the obtained results and those in the previous studies indicates that GOA performed better in minimizing total annual cost and entropy generation and maximizing efficiency.