Numerical optimization of the shape of mixing vane in nuclear fuel assembly

In the present work, shape of the mixing vane in Plus7 fuel assembly has been optimized numerically using three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes analysis of flow and heat transfer. Standard k-ε model is used as a turbulence closure. The Response surface method is employed as an optimization technique. The objective function is defined as a combination of heat transfer rate and inverse of friction loss. Bend angle and base length of mixing vane are selected as design variables. Thermal-hydraulic performances for different shapes of mixing vane have been discussed, and optimum shape has been obtained as a function of weighting factor in the objective function