Efficient Multi-Objective CFD-Based Optimization Method for a Scroll Distributor

Damian Obidowski, Mateusz Stajuda and Krzysztof Sobczak
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Damian Obidowski: Institute of Turbomachinery, Lodz University of Technology, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
Mateusz Stajuda: Institute of Turbomachinery, Lodz University of Technology, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
Krzysztof Sobczak: Institute of Turbomachinery, Lodz University of Technology, 90-924 Lodz, Poland

Energies, 2021, vol. 14, issue 2, 1-20

Abstract: An efficient approach to the geometry optimization problem of a non-axisymmetric flow channel is discussed. The method combines geometrical transformation with a computational fluid dynamics solver, a multi-objective genetic algorithm, and a response surface. This approach, through geometrical modifications and simplifications allows transforming a non-axisymmetric problem into the axisymmetric one in some specific devices i.e., a scroll distributor or a volute. It results in a significant decrease in the problem size, as only the flow in a quasi-2D section of the channel is solved. A significantly broader design space is covered in a much shorter time than in the standard method, and the optimization of large flow problems is feasible with desktop-class computers. One computational point is obtained approximately eight times faster than in full geometry computations. The method was applied to a scroll distributor. For the case under analysis, it was possible to increase flow uniformity, eradicate separation zones, and increase the overall efficiency, which was followed by energy savings of 16% for the scroll. The results indicate that this method can be successfully applied for the optimization of similar problems.

Keywords: optimization; scroll; CFD; response surface; parametrization; compressor; numerical problem downsizing (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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