152 DESIGN OF THERMAL SYSTEMS

Th~ constraints are an integral part of the statement of the optimiza-

tion prob~em. The objective function without the constraints is meaningless
because tile x' s could all shrink to zero and there would be no cost for
the system. The constraint in Eq. (7.28) requires a positive value of x I
which is the same as requiring the existence of a refrigeration unit. From
heat-transfer considerations the precooler can cool the air no lower than a
temperature of 24°C. Substituting XI = 0 in Eq. (7.28) makes X2 negative,
which is physically impossible. Equation (7.28) does permit x 2 to be zero,
in which case all cooling is performed by the refrigeration unit.
The constraint equation (7.29) imposes a minimum value of the cool-
ing-tower size and cost x 3, As the size of the refrigeration unit and x I
increases, x 3 also increases because of the compression power associated
with the refrigeration unit.

7.13 SUMMARY
While it is true that engineers have always sought to optimize their designs,
it has been only since the widespread application of the digital computer that
sophisticated methods of optimization have become practical for complex
systems. The application of optimization techniques to large-scale thermal
systems is still in its infancy, but experience so far indicates that setting up
the problem to the point where an optimization method can take over rep-
resents perhaps 70 percent of the total effort. The emphasis on optimization
techniques in the next five chapters may suggest that engineers are home
free once they know several methods. Realistically, however, the execution
of the optimization can only begin when the characteristics of the physical
system have been converted into the equations for the objective function
and constraints.

PROBLEMS
7.1. A pair of pumps is available to fill a tank from a constant-level reservoir,
as shown in Fig. 7-3. The pumps may be operated individually or together,
and the objective is to fill the tank using a minimum total amount of energy.
The pump characteristics (head-flow rate) are shown on the graph, and both
pumps have the same efficiency as a function of flow rate. State clearly the
mode of operation of the pumps over the enter filling process that results in
minimum total energy.
7.2. Two heat exchangers in a circulating water loop, as shown in Fig. 7-4,
transfer heat from a fluid condensing at 800e t6 a fluid boiling at 20oe. The
required rate of heat transfer is 65 kW, the U value of both heat exchangers
is 0.03 kW/(m2 • K),the first cost of the heat exchangers is $80/m2 of heat-
transfer area, and the present worth of the lifetime pumping cost in dollars
is 12,OOOw. Develop the objective function for the total present cost of the
system along with any constraint equation(s).