A new optimization approach for shell and tube heat exchangers by using electromagnetism-like algorithm (EM)

This study proposes a new procedure for optimal design of shell and tube heat exchangers. The electromagnetism-like algorithm is applied to save on heat exchanger capital cost and designing a compact, high performance heat exchanger with effective use of the allowable pressure drop (cost of the pump). An optimization algorithm is then utilized to determine the optimal values of both geometric design parameters and maximum allowable pressure drop by pursuing the minimization of a total cost function. A computer code is developed for the optimal shell and tube heat exchangers. Different test cases are solved to demonstrate the effectiveness and ability of the proposed algorithm. Results are also compared with those obtained by other approaches available in the literature. The comparisons indicate that a proposed design procedure can be successfully applied in the optimal design of shell and tube heat exchangers. In particular, in the examined cases a reduction of total costs up to 30, 29, and 56.15 % compared with the original design and up to 18, 5.5 and 7.4 % compared with other approaches for case study 1, 2 and 3 respectively, are observed. In this work, economic optimization resulting from the proposed design procedure are relevant especially when the size/volume is critical for high performance and compact unit, moderate volume and cost are needed.