With the mesh generation method based on fin passages and element control equation

a new three-dimensional distributed-parameter model for compact heat exchangers was developed.On the basis of this model and the principle of minimum entropy generation

an optimization methodology was realized with genetic algorithm(GA)

by which the geometry dimension of the heat exchanger and the fin surface type and sizing can be optimized simultaneously.The distributed-parameter model which takes account of the variation of local fluid physical properties in the heat exchanger can be applied to wet conditions or phase-change conditions.Moreover

because it avoids the complexity of CFDmethod and shortens the computer execution time greatly

the optimization based on distributed-parameter model is very practical.This optimization methodology can be extended to other kinds of heat exchangers and heat sinks.