The research in this doctoral opportunity will numerical assess single/multiple point wear in mechanical contacts and its relation with airborne friction noise.

Friction noise and wear phenomena are inevitable in machine components even working in normal operational conditions. Surface degradation, at the mechanical contacts due to wear, has an impact on the noise emitted because of the rapid release of energy from localized sources within a material. Severity of surface degradation can change the noise spectrum, and hence an analysis of emitted noise can lead to the possible health diagnosis of machine components.

Researchers have shown the empirical trend modelling between noise signals and the wear in terms of accumulated signal energy and changes in spectrum amplitude. However, due to complexities in wear tribo-mechanics, it is still a challenge to numerically generate friction noise even for a single mechanical contact which is under degradation due to wear phenomenon.

In this research, numerical modelling will be performed for assessing the relationship between the friction noise and wear in mechanical contacts. Asperities of contacts will be tangentially loaded in such a manner that one of the contact asperity will be assumed as static and the other will create sliding effect for the wear. The materials selection will also allow to assume that one of the material asperity will be worn out while other will be responsible for the generation of the compression wave in the air medium. Later, this compression wave will be used to generate the friction noise, which will further be used to investigate the wear in contact.

About Cranfield

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.

At a glance

  • Application deadlineOngoing
  • Award type(s)PhD
  • Duration of award3 years
  • EligibilityUK, EU, Rest of world
  • Reference numberSATM0021

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Entry requirements

  • A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area (e.g. aerospace, automotive, mechanical, and  manufacturing) with a minimum 60% mark in the Project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average
  • The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a three-year period of study
  • A minimum of English language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 6.5).

Also, the successful 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 journal.

Funding

Self-funded

Cranfield Doctoral Network

Research students at Cranfield benefit from being part of a dynamic, focused and professional study environment and all become valued members of the Cranfield Doctoral Network. This network brings together both research students and staff, providing a platform for our researchers to share ideas and collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. It aims to encourage an effective and vibrant research culture, founded upon the diversity of activities and knowledge. A tailored programme of seminars and events, alongside our Doctoral Researchers Core Development programme (transferable skills training), provide those studying a research degree with a wealth of social and networking opportunities.

How to apply

Before completing the application documentation please contact Dr Muhammad Khan for an initial informal discussion about this opportunity.

For further information contact us today:
T: 44 (0)1234 758450
E: study@cranfield.ac.uk