Multi-objective Reliability-Based Design Optimization of Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers Using Combined Subset Simulation Method and Naive Bayes Algorithm

In today’s advanced world, optimization of energy systems to reduce energy consumption and costs in the industrial area has received much attention. Meanwhile, the optimal design of energy consuming components and equipment plays an influential role in this process. Shell and tube heat exchangers (STHE) are used as the most common type of heat exchangers in many industries, so optimal design of this equipment in order to save design and operation costs is important. Due to the nature of the problem, various environmental and structural parameters play a role in the final design, which causes many uncertainties in the design process of this equipment. Therefore, in this study, the optimal design of STHE with a multi-objective approach including minimizing costs and maximizing the reliability index was investigated. For this purpose, a new hybrid method including Naive Bayesian and subset simulation method is proposed. The redesign results show that the developed framework has the promising potential to enhance computational time efficiency with high accuracy for the multi-objective reliability-based design optimization of STHE. Moreover, the curve of Pareto front and a set of robust design values of STHE are obtained for the high-safety level design of STHE. According to the results, considering the uncertainties during the design lead to a safe and robust model. Since design uncertainty is unavoidable, the results are closer to reality and show greater accuracy.