ABSTRACT
The important terms that arise in the design and optimization of thermal systems have been defined and discussed in the preceding chapter. We are concerned with thermal systems that are governed by considerations of fluid flow, thermodynamics, and heat and mass transfer. The interaction between the various components and subsystems that constitute a given system is an important element in the design because the emphasis is on the overall system. Additional considerations, that may not have a thermal or even a technical basis, also have to be included in most cases for a realistic and successful design. Though selection of components or devices may be employed as part of system design, the focus is on design and not on selection. Similarly, analysis is used only as a means for obtaining the inputs needed for design and for evaluating different designs, not for providing detailed information and understanding of thermal processes and systems. The synthesis of information from a variety of sources plays an important part in the development of an acceptable design. With this background and understanding, we can now proceed to the basic considerations that arise in the design process.
