Three-dimensional flow analysis and numerical optimization methods are presented for the design of an axial-flow fan. Steady, incompressible, three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations are used as governing equations, and standard k- ${varepsilon}$ turbulence model is chosen as a turbulence model. Governing equations are discretized using finite volume method. Steepest descent method, conjugate gradient method and BFGS method are compared to determine the searching directions. Golden section method and quadratic fit-sectioning method are tested for one dimensional search. Objective function is defined as a ratio of generation rate of the turbulent kinetic energy to pressure head. Two variables concerning sweep angle distribution are selected as the design variables. Performance of the final fan designed by the optimization was tested experimentally.