Convective heat-transfer in turbulent boundary layers

Supervisory Team:   Bharathram Ganapathisubramani and Sean Symon

Project description

The electrification of aircraft as an enabler for achieving our Net-Zero ambitions has been increasingly studied in recent years. The addition of new electrical components as part of the power train in electric (hybrid) aircraft increases the overall propulsion efficiency, but the heat generated by these additional systems must be removed. In fact, designing an efficient thermal management system poses one of the major challenges for (hybrid)electric aircraft. One possible avenue to remove excess heat is through the turbulent boundary layers that are flowing over the wings or the fuselage of the airframe. In fact, convective heat transfer in turbulent boundary layers is a critically important area for a variety of applications ranging from cooling of high-power electronics to turbomachinery. To develop new innovative thermal management solutions, we need to understand the mechanisms for convective heat transfer of turbulent boundary layers for different operating conditions and the trade-offs involved in using the boundary layers for heat transfer. In this exciting experimental project, we aim to explore the mechanisms of convective heat transfer in turbulent boundary layer flow at high Reynolds numbers in varied configurations. The candidate will be expected to develop a new test facility within our high Reynolds number boundary layer wind tunnel where convective heat-transfer measurements can be made using optical as well we traditional surface-based methods. This will be combined with flow measurements using 2D and 3D optical velocimetry techniques to understand the role of flow structures on heat transfer. We will then aim to develop new passive and active control strategies for heat transfer enhancement.

We aim to build a diverse and inclusive team to tackle challenging problems where we develop new skills and expertise in our team members. Therefore, the project will be open-ended, and the details will be tailored to suit you. You will have a unique opportunity to work alongside other team members (PhD students and postdoctoral researchers) with different backgrounds and experience. You will the unique opportunity to be trained in using state-of-the-art diagnostics and advanced data-analysis methods that will enable you to pursue a career in academia or industry. Finally, you will be able to travel to international conferences to present your work and develop new collaborations with research groups around the world.

Further information on the type of projects carried out in our lab as well as information on current lab members can be found on our website (https://generic.wordpress.soton.ac.uk/bharath-lab/).

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent) in Engineering with the motivation to do experimental work.

Closing date: 31 August 2024 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £18,622 per annum for up to 3.5 years.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Bharathram Ganapathisubramani

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]