초록
In this paper, the response surface method using three-dimensional Navier-Stokes analysis to optimize the shape of a multi-blade centrifugal fan, is described. For numerical analysis, Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations with standard k - c 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. Linear Upwind Differencing Scheme(LUDS) is used to approximate the convection terms in the governing equations. SIMPLEC algorithm is used as a velocity-pressure correction procedure. 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. It was found that the optimization process provides reliable design of this kind of fans with reasonable computing time.