Multi Objective Optimization of Shell & Tube Type Heat Exchanger by Genetic Algorithms

Heat exchangers are one of the mostly used equipment in the industries. Heat exchangers are the device which are used to transfer heat between two streams. Among various heat exchanger shell and tube type heat exchangers have been widely used equipment in power plants, petroleum refining, steam generation and many more providing relatively large ratios of heat transfer area to volume and weight and way of easy cleanliness. Due to their wide utilization and acceptance, their cost minimization is an important objective. Pressure drop and area required for a certain amount of heat transfer, provides an indication about power requirements and capital cost (Running cost) of a heat exchanger. This paper deals with optimization of shell and tube heat exchanger for its length and total cost (including running cost and capital cost) by optimizing tube outside diameter, baffle spacing and shell inside diameter by implementing software based (MATLAB) multi-objective genetic algorithm. The other purposes of this paper are to deliver information on construction, design and operation of heat exchangers with theoretical demonstration of how to apply theories of heat transfer and fluid mechanics and how to find solutions for practical problems which are due to design, material selection, accommodating of heat exchangers.