Multi-objective optimization of a honeycomb heat sink using Response Surface Method

Abstract

Abstract The aim of this study is to find optimum values of design parameters of a heat sink having hexagonal aluminum honeycomb fins by using the Response Surface Method (RSM) and the Pareto based multi-objective optimization. In this context, fin height ( H ) , fin thickness ( t ) , longitudinal pitch ( S y ) , angle of attack ( θ ) and Reynolds number ( R e ) are selected as design variables while Nusselt number ( Nu ) and friction factor ( f ) are chosen as objective functions. Firstly, the RSM with the face centered central composite design (FCCCD) has been employed to construct mathematical models required in multi-objective optimization problem definition. In the next step, accuracy and validity of these mathematical models are proved both statistically and experimentally. Finally, a Pareto based multi-objective optimization study has been conducted to determine optimum values of the design parameters that maximize Nu and minimize f . It is concluded that Pareto solution set obtained provides important insights into the design parameters and allows designers freedom to make a selection among the optimal solutions.