A novel random walk algorithm with compulsive evolution combined with an optimum-protection strategy for heat exchanger network synthesis. (1st June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bao, Zhongkai; Cui, Guoming; Chen, Jiaxing; Sun, Tao; Xiao, Yuan
• Is Part Of: Energy. Volume 152(2018)
• Page Start: 694
• Page End: 708
• Publication Date: 2018-06-01
• Subjects: Heat exchanger network -- Random walk algorithm with compulsive evolution -- Optimization -- Stochastic methods -- Optimum-protection strategy; Power resources -- Periodicals; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy consumption -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2018.03.170
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0360-5442

Abstract

Abstract: Random walk algorithm with compulsive evolution is a novel stochastic method with strong global search ability for heat exchanger network synthesis; however, its mutation behavior of accepting bad solutions might substitute excellent solutions with bad ones and consequently cost-optimal structures cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, an optimum-protection strategy is proposed to protect and exploit excellent solutions. In the presented method, a basic population is set to generate numerous candidate solutions based on the evolution principle of original algorithm, where the excellent solutions including current optimums and pseudo optimums are delivered to a protective population. For higher convergence precision, a dimensionality-reduction random walk technique is designed for the protective population to perform a complete local optimization for the protected solutions. The presented method consisting of two populations can maintain the normal evolution of original algorithm and exploit the potentialities of the excellent solutions, which can satisfy the needs of global and local search abilities. Moreover, a leader–follower optimization technique is presented to reduce computational time when considering stream splits. Five different-sized cases available in the literature are systematically examined and some more economical solutions compared to the reported ones are found within reasonable time. Highlights: An optimum-protection strategy is developed for heat exchanger network synthesis. The optimums and pseudo optimums can be protected and exploited. The dimensionality-reduction random walk technique can perform a full local search. A leader–follower optimization technique is proposed to reduce computational time. The proposed method possesses strong abilities in both the global and local search.