Topology optimization of a suction muffler in a fluid machine to maximize energy efficiency and minimize broadband noise

• An integrated design method for a suction muffler in a compressor was suggested.
• Topology optimization was used in the integrated design method.
• Input impedance was used in the target acoustical resonance frequency design problem.
• An optimal suction muffler design was physically explained.
• The sequential optimization method was suggested.

A suction muffler used in a fluid machine has three functions: noise reduction; minimizing pressure drop and improving energy efficiency using acoustic effects. However, no method of suction muffler design considers all three of these functions concurrently. Therefore, in this study, we attempt to provide an integrated design method of a suction muffler in a fluid machine that considers all three functions. The topology optimization method for acoustic and fluid systems was applied to an integrated design. However, the interaction between fluid and acoustic was not considered. In addition, the acoustic input impedance of a suction muffler was used for a specific acoustical resonance frequency to improve the energy efficiency of a fluid machine. Finally, the sequential optimization method based on physical investigations was proposed to satisfy several design criteria. The proposed method was applied to the suction muffler in refrigerator׳s compressor.