Analysis and multi-response optimization of two dew point cooler configurations using the desirability function approach
Amel F. Boudjabi, Chadi Maalouf, Tala Moussa, Djallel Abada, D. Rouag, Mohammed Lachi, Guillaume Polidori
Abstract
Due to climate change and hot summers in most of Algeria’s regions, air conditioning has become a thorny issue, resulting in excessive energy consumption. This research focuses on the implementation of dew point evaporative coolers as an alternative to conventional air conditioners. The desirability function approach is used to predict the optimal operating parameters and compare the thermal performance and water consumption of two dew point cooler configurations (counter flow-regenerative cooler and combined parallel–regenerative cooler) under different climatic conditions in Algeria. A numerical model is developed and validated using literature data for regenerative and combined dew point evaporative systems. Parametric analysis and multi- to single-objective optimization simulations were performed with the GenOpt simulation software, identifying the most influential parameters and predicting the optimal conditions for both configurations. The findings suggest that the optimal channel spacing, working air ratio, and primary air velocity are identical for both technologies. However, the cooling capacity and the coefficient of performance of the combined parallel–regenerative cooler are higher in drier climates. When both technologies are compared at nearly equal dew point efficiency, the combined configuration improves cooling capacity by 5%, while increasing water consumption by about 40%. This study provides a useful method for assessing cooling capacity and adapting suitable dew point technology to various climates and cities.