Framework for manufacturing prognostics PhD

This PhD project aims to address one of the key challenges in the manufacturing industry, the increase in productivity by utilizing the equipment with its optimum performance and without any stoppages.

However, in most of the industries, OEM specifications are used to maintain the equipment’s/machineries which are often based on schedules and preventive strategies. It has been observed that equipment’s or machine components are maintained on these schedules even without a need of repair or replacement. In addition, the stoppages to execute the schedules strategies also increase the production cost and reduce the true potential of the productivity. In this PhD research, a framework for manufacturing prognostics will be proposed to address the mentioned challenge with a focus on manufacturing industries located in Kuwait. The framework will connect productivity, cost, equipment workability, and product quality. The utilization of near real time equipment inspections and its impact on production will be quantified. The proposed framework validation will be achieved by implementing it on a selected manufacturing sector.

At a glance

Application deadlineOngoing
Award type(s)PhD
Duration of award3 years
EligibilityUK, EU, Rest of world
Reference numberSATM449 & SATM450

Supervisor

Dr Muhammad Khan

About the host University and Through-life Engineering Services (TES) Centre

Cranfield is an exclusively postgraduate university that is a global leader for transformational research and education in technology and management. Research Excellence Framework 2014 (REF) has recognised 81% of Cranfield’s research as world leading or internationally excellent in its quality. Every year Cranfield graduates the highest number of postgraduates in engineering and technology in the UK (Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency Ltd). Cranfield Manufacturing is one of eight major themes at Cranfield University. The manufacturing capability is world leading and combines a multi-disciplinary approach that integrates design, technology and management expertise.

We link fundamental materials research with manufacturing to develop novel technologies and improve the science base of manufacturing research.

The Through-life Engineering Services (TES) Centre are among the world leaders in through-life approaches for high value systems, Condition monitoring, Damage tolerance, Asset management. TES was developed with the support of EPSRC grant of £ 11 million with the aim to develop research excellence and address the research problems in the sector of Through-life Engineering services. TES Centre is providing its state of the art academic and research services to industrial clients such as Boeing, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Meggitt, Thales, MOD, Bombardier, QinetiQ, Thales, Network Rail, Schlumberger and Alstom.

Entry requirements

A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area.
A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 6.5).

Also, the candidate is expected to:

Have excellent analytical, reporting and communication skills
Be self-motivated, independent and team player
Be genuine enthusiasm for the subject and technology
Have the willing to publish research findings in international journals

Funding

Self-funded.

Explore financial support opportunities in our funding finder.

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Cranfield University is located at the very heart of the UK – within the innovation triangle between London and the cities of Oxford and Cambridge.

Our central location provides easy access from the M1, excellent main line rail service as well as proximity to key international airports. Set in rolling countryside, Cranfield offers a rich, rural landscape complemented by thriving towns and picturesque villages.

Road: We are just 10 minutes from Junctions 13 and 14 of the M1 motorway. There is free parking on campus.
Rail: Milton Keynes or Bedford
Air: London Luton (22 miles), Heathrow (50 miles) or Birmingham (70 miles).

View our location maps.

How to apply

Before completing the application documentation please contact Dr Muhammad Khan for an initial informal discussion about this opportunity. Please include the keyword PhD Studentship-Self Funding in the subject field.

If you are eligible to apply for this research studentship, please complete the online application form relevant to your start date.