(581c) Beyond the Optimization in Shell and Tube Heat Transfer Exchanger

The applications of optimization tools in heat transfer equipment design are widely known and accepted by academia and industry. However, designs obtained by optimization tools cannot always be built or work with the efficiency predicted in the optimization models. In the present work, optimization through various methods was employed for a shell and tube heat exchanger equipment design, the optimal result was subsequently validated with simulation using the Aspen Exchanger Design & Rating (EDR V14) tool. The optimization offers an approximation of the shell and tube exchanger's correct design. Nevertheless, the optimization process does not include information about vibrational analysis or hydraulic details provided by the detailed simulation, and, in a lot of scenarios, the obtained optimal design did not pass the vibrational analysis and other design tests. Consequently, the optimization process in heat transfer equipment design must be reinforced with a final stage which includes the optimal design validation employing simulation tools such as the EDR V14 tool. This stage will allow the user to guarantee the real efficiency of the optimal design proposed.