Abstract: As node-wise non-structural superstructure model is applied to heat exchanger network optimization, heat exchanger crossover may appear. It is found that crossover structure causes an increase of total heat transfer area for heat exchange unit with same heat loads. At the same time, it reduces obviously computational efficiency of the algorithm. A vertical node-wise non-structural superstructure model is established. Compared with node-wise non-structural superstructure, the vertical node-wise non-structural superstructure model reduces computational complexity in the optimization process and eliminates adverse effects of crossover structure, which improves efficiency and accuracy of optimization. Finally, optimization performance of RWCE algorithm based on vertical non-structural superstructure model is analyzed in two examples. The results are superior to those in literature.