This project is based at the Department of Materials at the University of Sheffield, and is sponsored by Rolls Royce. We are seeking a UK national or candidate with Indefinate Leave to Remain in the UK with a 2.1 or 1st class degree in a STEM discipline.
Over recent years, researchers at The University of Sheffield have developed a solid-state processing route that converts titanium alloy powder into fully dense billets with as-forged properties. Excellent mechanical properties are generated through the rapid sintering process - field-assisted sintering technology (FAST). FAST is different from conventional sintering methods as a current flows between shaped graphite dies through the powder to achieve a Joule heating effect instead of using an external heat source. The Sheffield Titanium Alloy Research group have demonstrated the consolidation of a range powders and machined swarf in a range of titanium alloy chemistries. The process produces densities comparable to hot isostatic pressing (HIP), however the advantages of FAST include consolidation times of up to 1 hour (as opposed to 4 hours in HIPing) and shaped preforms without the need for canning.
This project aims to take a range of waste titanium alloy powders (and particulates) of different chemistries and through controlled blending and the unique FAST electric processing, generate enhanced mechanical properties in near net shape components that exceed those achieved through conventional wrought processing routes. You will use multi-physics, finite element and thermodynamic modelling software to produce predictive models for industrial scale FAST derived components. With our industry partners, the technology will be demonstrated through a shaped, functionally-graded component where a combination of different titanium alloys and a defined blend with enhanced properties will be generated and tested.
The project will utilise state-of-the-art advanced metals processing facilities at the Henry Royce Institute. You will work within a dynamic, interdisciplinary research group who are developing a range of sustainable solid state processing technologies. The objectives at the end of the project will be to transfer the knowledge to the High Value Manufacturing Catapult Centres for large scale exploitation into industry.
Through the EngD you will be gain valuable and career defining experience in titanium metallurgy, process modelling, FAST, thermomechanical processing, mechanical testing, a range of characterisation techniques (electron microscopy, XRD), finite element modelling, physics-based modelling and thermodynamic modelling. You will be expected to present results to Rolls-Royce on a monthly basis and engage with their materials capability team.
The Centre for Doctoral Training in Advanced Metallic Systems is a partnership between industry and the Universities of Sheffield, Manchester and I-Form Advanced Manufacturing Centre, Dublin. CDT students undertake a 4-year doctorate with an in-depth compulsory technical and professional skills training programme. Please review our training programme, application process and full entry requirements at www.metallicscdt.co.uk.
For more information on the research scope of the project please contact Martin Jackson at [Email Address Removed]. Informal enquiries about the CDT training programme should be sent to [Email Address Removed].
Please note that this project will close before the advertised end date if a suitable applicant is secured. We suggest that you do not delay submitting your PGR application to the University of Sheffield.
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