Modelling and measurement of oil-water two-phase flows

Duration: Full Time 3 years Fixed Term

Application deadline: 31st May (starting September 2016)

Informal enquiries are essential before application; contact Andrew Hunt to discuss this opportunity.

Congratulations on taking your first steps toward a Research Degree with Coventry’s Faculty of Engineering, Environment and Computing. As an ambitious and innovative University, we’re investing an initial £100m into our new research strategy, ‘Excellence with Impact’. Through original approaches from world-leading experts, we’re aiming for our research to make a tangible difference to the way we live. As a research student you are an integral part of Coventry’s lively and diverse research community and contribute to our reputation for excellence. With our exceptional facilities and superb support mechanisms you are afforded every opportunity for academic success.

THE PROJECT
Flows of mixtures of oil and water are important in processes as diverse as oil production and food processing. Modelling these flows is complex and involves fluid mechanics at a variety of scales. In oilfield flow conditions most modelling and measurement has been based on gas-liquid flows, often derived originally from steam-water studies in other industries. These historical models and correlations are not necessarily applicable in large-scale flows typical of those in industry.

Advances in flow measurement techniques, particularly in industrial process tomography, mean that a whole new range of information is available about real flows in industrial installations.

This project will use electrical tomography to measure detail characteristics of oil-water flows, typical of modern and future heavy oil production. Drawing on extensive research already underway in the group, that experimental information will be used to derive new and improved models of these complex flow.

ABOUT THE CENTRE/DEPARTMENT
The Flow Measurement and Fluid Mechanics Faculty Research Centre undertakes fundamental and applied research into industrially-relevant complex flows including:

-Smart Pipes, Vessels and Advanced Sensors
-Process Tomography and Process Nowcasting
-Fluid Mechanics of Complex Flows
-Advanced Computing
-Clean Combustion
-Reservoir modelling

Flow measurement is an integral and vital part of many industrial processes. Plant control, product quality and safety systems are often underpinned by the need to measure flows of liquids, gases and solids. Trade of fuels, industrial feedstock and chemical products relies on accurate measurement of flow. Flow measurement is an essential element of all modern industrial societies.

SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS
Successful applicants will have:

-A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the Project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average, or
-A Masters Degree in a relevant subject area will be considered as an equivalent. The Masters must have been attained with overall marks at merit level (60%). In addition, the dissertation or equivalent element in the Masters must also have been attained with a mark at merit level (60%).
-The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a prescribed period of study
-Language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).

Additionally

-knowledge and/or experience in the subject
-a good knowledge of flow measurement
-experimental, modelling or analytical experience
-experience of (or a willingness to quickly learn) about fluid mechanics.

ELIGIBILITY & APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Application Procedure:

To apply, you must submit an application form and covering letter, plus a 2000-word proposal addressing the research theme.

Application information can be found in our how to apply section. Before completing the application please contact Andrew Hunt (cc'ing [Email Address Removed] when you do) for an initial informal discussion about the opportunity.

Eligibility:

All UK/EU/International students are eligible to apply that meet the academic requirements, the eligibility criteria can be found here: http://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-students/research-entry-criteria/?id=88841