Modelling and understanding of Materials Micro structures influence on Micro Electro Discharge Machining

Needs and challenges: Advances in Micro Electro Discharge Machining (μEDM) are significantly limited by the lack of understanding and control of various random factors, which cannot anymore be considered negligible due to the scale of the machining. In particular, variations in sub-micro material properties need to be taken into consideration. However, analytical models representing accurately the physical behaviour of EDM at the micro scale remains to be developed.

The main aim of the proposed research is to investigate the influence of various material micro structures on μEDM, to gain a better understanding of the μEDM process. A secondary aim will be to develop a modelling approach for predicting the machining response (Accuracy, repeatability, geometries, removal rate…) as a function of materials micro structures.
Data will be collected using in house state of the art equipments (μEDM machines, metrology) and using the support of machine tool manufacturers.

During this PhD you would be required to undertake high quality research within the theme of Micro/nano manufacturing. You will be required to present the results of your research through publications and presentations at seminars, conferences and other events.

Informal enquiries may be made to Dr Samuel Bigot ([Email Address Removed]). For further information about Cardiff School of Engineering and the Institute of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, see http://www.engin.cf.ac.uk/research/resInstitute.asp?InstNo=15

The successful candidate will need to have an academic grounding in Engineering (Manufacturing or Material Science), a first-class or 2.1 Honours degree. Candidates whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 600).

When applying please state the name of the supervisor(s) in the "prospective supervisor" section of the application