Multi-objective optimization of mixed convection air cooling in an inclined channel with discrete heat sources

In this paper, a multi-objective optimization of mixed convection air-cooling of two identical discrete heat sources mounted in an inclined channel is conducted to obtain the optimal design parameters, using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and desirability function approach. Reynolds number (Re), inclination of the channel (r) and the width of the discrete heat source (b) are selected as the input parameters. The computational simulations are done for different Reynolds numbers (25-Re-250), inclination angles of the channel (0o-r-360o) and the width of the heat source (5-b-10 mm). A central composite design (CCD), which comes under the RSM approach, with design parameters was used for analysis of variance (ANOVA). A second-order regression models were developed to correlate the design parameters (Re, r and b) with mean Nusselt number (Nu) and maximum temperature (TMax). The optimum values of design parameters produce the lowest value of maximum temperature (TMax) with a higher mean Nusselt number (Nu) are Reynolds number (Re)=209.94, inclination angle of the channel (r)=330o and heat source width (b)=5.13 mm.