The heat-exchanger needs to fit in a compact volume and guarantee effective cooling capabilities to comply with the application’s standard pressure/temperature values, as defined by literature. In particular, it needs to provide a maximum temperature drop in the range of 90°C to 120°C while minimizing the pressure drop (maximum pressure should stabilize in a range between 7 bar to 9 bar). 

Due to the porosity nature of coffee, which largely depends on the particles size and their distribution (typically binomial) and on how the ground is distributed inside the filter during preparation, the variability factors shift across a wide range of possibilities. That makes the challenge even greater, and despite the fact that the experiment time-frame will not allow for a full investigation, our multidisciplinary approach will help to pave the way (i.e., the framework) for future research. 

That is also why the experiment will leverage the capabilities of advanced Topology Optimization software tools combined with Computational Fluid Dynamics and metal 3D printing. This interdisciplinary approach makes it possible to design and test optimal complex geometries in a relatively short amount of time. Consequently, driven by an agile manufacturing approach, the team will perform multiple small/rapid iterations to reach the expected results within the six-month timeframe. On top of rapid prototyping, the use of 3D printing technology throughout the experiment will allow performing an in-depth assessment of the technology (specifically Direct Metal Laser Sintering) as a production process.