Lattice Boltzmann method for shape optimization of fluid distributor

• A LBM-based algorithm for shape optimization of fluid distributor.
• Designed and optimized an arborescent fluid distributor.
• A good ability in reducing pressure drop in the proposed method.
• Improved performance observed for the optimized distributor.

The shape optimization of a flat-type arborescent fluid distributor is studied for the purpose of process intensification, in which a shape optimization algorithm based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) (Wang et al., 2010) is adopted with the objective of decreasing the flow resistance subject to the constraint of a constant fluid volume. Prototypes of the initial distributor as well as the optimized one are designed. Fluid distribution and hydraulic characteristics of these distributors are investigated numerically. Results show that the pressure drop of the optimized distributor is between 15.9% and 25.1% lower than that of the initial reference while keeping a uniform flow distribution, demonstrating the process intensification in fluid distributor, and suggesting the significance of the proposed optimization algorithm in engineering optimal design.