Genetic algorithm shape optimisation of a natural air circulation heating oven based on an experimentally validated 3-D CFD model

This paper presents the shape optimisation of a natural air circulation heating oven based on an experimentally validated 3-D CFD model. The oven is designed to store laboratory samples and products at high, constant and spatially uniform temperature conditions. Thus, the aim of the proposed optimisation procedure, which uses the genetic algorithm (GA), is to improve the spatial uniformity of temperature within the storage space. The objective function (OF), which is defined as the maximum difference between the temperatures in the geometric centre and one of the corners of the chamber, is minimised. The OF is computed using a mathematical model that is validated with a set of thermocouples and Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), which capture the spatial temperature and velocity fields, respectively. The model is applied to the 3-D geometry of the real oven. Based on the results of the model, two optimisation procedures are performed to optimally position the electric heater and air distribution gaps using simplified geometries of the device. The optimised solutions are then applied to the real 3-D model and show a substantial improvement in the uniformity of the temperature field in the storage chamber.