Systematic micro heat sink optimization based on hydrofoil shape pin fins

Abstract

Multi-objective optimization of the hydrofoil shaped pin fins for micro heat sinks was studied. Optimization tool utilized a multi objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) and a numerical model that was validated against previously obtained experimental single-phase heat transfer results on a hydrofoil shape micro scale pin fin. The numerical model was built using StarCCM + software. Several turbulence models were examined against single-phase experimental data and the Lag-EB k-epsilon turbulence model was chosen for validation. Optimization tool varied the shape of the hydrofoil pin fin through flexible parametrization utilizing an ellipse and polynomials. An algorithm coupling pin fin parametrization code, validated the 3D CFD solutions and a MOGA interface was implemented. Subsequently, multi-objective optimization was performed to maximize the heat transfer coefficient while minimizing pressure drop. A broad range of novel geometries were obtained with a tradeoff between thermal and hydraulic performance for low Reynolds number. Novel pin fin shape, bird design, is proposed as a result of the study. Additional 3D steady state conjugate CFD simulations including the bird design pin fin were performed using already verified setup, and it was shown that the enhancement in the average heat transfer coefficient dominates over the pressure drop increase at higher Reynolds numbers.