Genetic algorithm for the design and optimization of a shell and tube heat exchanger from a performance point of view

A new approach to optimize the design of a shell and tube heat exchanger (STHX) is developed via a genetic algorithm (GA) to get the optimal configuration from a performance point of view. The objective is to develop and test a model for optimizing the early design stage of the STHX and solve the design problem quickly. GA is implemented to maximize heat transfer rate while minimizing pressure drop. GA is applied to oil cooler type OKG 33/244, and the results are compared with the original data of the STHX. The simulation outcomes reveal that the STHX's operating performance has been improved, indicating that GA can be successfully employed for the design optimization of STHX from a performance standpoint. A maximum increase in the effectiveness achieves 57% using GA, while the achieved minimum increase is 47%. Furthermore, the average effectiveness of the heat exchanger is 55%, and the number of transfer units (NTU) has improved from 0.475319 to 1.825664 by using GA.