Application of response surface methodology in the parametric optimization of a pin-fin type heat sink

In this paper, an effective procedure of response surface methodology (RSM) has been successfully developed finding the optimal values of designing parameters of a pin-fin type heat sink (PFHS) under constrains of mass and space limitation to achieve the high thermal performance (or cooling efficiency). Various design parameters, such as height and diameter of pin-fin and width of pitch between fins are explored by experiment. The thermal resistance and pressure drop are considered as the multiple thermal performance characteristics. Experiments are performed by a standard RSM design called a central composite design (CCD). The results identify the significant influence factors to minimize thermal resistance and pressure drop. The obtained optimal designing parameters have been predicted and verified by conducting confirmation experiments. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.