Design Optimization of Heat Exchangers for Aero Engines With the Use of a Surrogate Model Incorporating Performance Characteristics and Geometrical Constraints

The present work is focused on the optimization of the performance characteristics of a recuperator specifically designed for aero engine applications, targeting the reduction of specific fuel consumption and taking into consideration aero engine geometrical constraints and limitations. The recuperator design was based on the elliptically profiled tubular heat exchanger which was developed and invented by MTU Aero Engines AG. For the specific fuel consumption investigations the Intercooled Recuperated Aero engine cycle, combining both intercooling and recuperation, was considered. The optimization was performed with the development of a recuperator surrogate model, capable to incorporate major recuperator geometrical features. A large number of recuperator design scenarios was assessed, in which additional design criteria and constraints were applied. Thus, a significantly large recuperator design space was covered resulting to the identification of feasible recuperator designs providing beneficial effect on the Intercooled Recuperated Aero engine leading to reduced specific fuel consumption and weight.