Using CFD and genetic algorithms, baffle design in a parallel heat exchanger header is numerically optimized

Abstract

One of the primary causes of the decrease in thermal performance in a parallel heat exchanger is
the maldistribution of refrigerant flow. This work presents a numerical technique to automatically calculate the
height of the baffles to maximize the two-phase flow refrigerant's distribution inside the heat exchanger header.
Using a genetic algorithm and a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, this technique simultaneously
generates the ideal dimensions of several baffles. According to the numerical results, compared to the original
design, the maldistribution of flow might be reduced by up to nine times. Additionally, this framework has the
potential to increase the design space, making it a valuable tool for improving header designs that employ in parallel heat exchangers.