An automated framework coupling DAKOTA with OpenFOAM for optimizing heat transfer in corrugated channels under pulsating flow conditions
Résumé
This study presents a robust optimization methodology that couples a high-fidelity OpenFOAM solver with the DAKOTA optimization toolbox to maximize the thermal performance of corrugated heat exchangers under pulsating flow conditions. An Efficient Global Optimization (EGO) method is utilized to identify optimal pulsating flow parameters (frequency and amplitude) that maximize the Thermal Performance Factor (TPF). The optimization framework automatically explores the design space across various Reynolds numbers (2370-5379), allowing for the discovery of optimal configurations with minimal human intervention. The results demonstrate that the methodology successfully identifies configurations that enhance the TPF by up to 103% at a Reynolds number of 2370, with optimal pulsating parameters of f=31.4 Hz and A=0.89. A detailed flow field analysis reveals that pulsation-induced turbulence effectively interrupts the thermal boundary layer, particularly at Reynolds numbers equal to 2370. However, the effectiveness of pulsating flow diminishes at higher Reynolds numbers, where the flow is inherently more turbulent. These findings help researchers or engineers design and operate more efficient heat exchangers and provide valuable insights for future research.