Application of Numerical Optimization Technique to Design of Forward-Curved Blades Centrifugal Fan

This paper presents the response surface optimization method using three-dimensional Navier-Stokes analysis to optimize the shape of a forward-curved blades centrifugal fan. For numerical analysis, Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations with k-ε turbulence model are discretized with finite volume approximations. In order to reduce huge computing time due to a large number of blades in forward-curved blades centrifugal fan, the flow inside of the fan is regarded as steady flow by introducing the impeller force models. Three geometric variables, i.e., location of cut off, radius of cut off, and width of impeller, and one operating variable, i.e., flow rate, were selected as design variables. As a main result of the optimization, the efficiency was successfully improved. And, optimum design flow rate was found by using flow rate as one of design variables. It was found that the optimization process provides reliable design of this kind of fans with reasonable computing time.