Abstract
Shape of a multi-blades centrifugal fan is optimized by response surface method based on three-dimensional Navier-Stokes analysis. For numerical analysis, Reynolds-averaged Wavier-Stokes equations with standard $k-{\varepsilon}$ turbulence model are transformed into non-orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system, and are discretized with finite volume approximations. Due to the large number of blades in this centrifugal fan, the flow inside of the fan is regarded as steady flow by introducing the impeller force models for economic calculations. Optimizations with and without constraints are carried out. Design variables, location of cur off, radius of cut off, expansion angle of scroll and width of impeller were selected to optimize the shapes of scroll and blades. Data points for response evaluations were selected by D-optimal design, and linear programming method was used for the optimization on the response surface. As a main result of the optimization, the efficiency was successfully improved. The correlation of efficiency with relative size of inactive zone at the exit of impeller is discussed as well as with average momentum fluxes in the scroll.
