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  Advanced modelling of turbulent spray flames in aero gas-turbines with liquid bio-fuels


   Faculty of Engineering, Environment & Computing

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  Dr E Abtahizadeh  Applications accepted all year round

About the Project

Duration: Full Time 3 years Fixed Term

Application deadline: Application deadline: This opportunity will only remain open until a suitable candidate is identified- early application is therefore advised. Standard University research application closing dates apply.

Informal enquiries are essential before application; contact Dr. Ebrahim Abtahizadeh 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
Aviation industry relies highly on combustion of liquid fuels due to their reliability, high energy density, simplicity of handling and storage. Burning of traditional liquid fuels emits significant amount of harmful pollutants such as CO2, NOx and soot. Liquid bio-fuels have been introduced as an alternative source of energy which results in significantly lower carbon footprint in the environment.

Modelling of turbulent spray flames involve several complexities due to various physical phenomena that come into play. The liquid fuel stream is initially disintegrated into ensemble of droplets. Afterwards, instabilities at the liquid-gas interface of droplets lead to their break-up. Droplets are then evaporated and subjected to turbulent dispersion.

Main goal of this research is to develop a reduced and efficient model for turbulent spray flames of liquid bio-fuels in aero gas-turbines. This will enable us to reduce CO2 emissions significantly and take full advantage of CO2-neutral combustion of bio-fuels in aero-engines. To this end, first, a flamelet-based model will be developed to account for the combustion of evaporating droplets. Afterwards, the developed model will be implemented within LES and will be coupled to a Lagrangian model in order to simulate the turbulent spray flames. Finally, an extensive analysis will be performed on results. The candidate is expected to submit a successful PhD dissertation with numerous high-quality publications.

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 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%) minimum. In addition, the dissertation or equivalent element in the Masters must also have been attained with a mark at merit level (60%) minimum.
-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:

-A solid background in the field of combustion, turbulence and multiphase flows
-Experience of programming in Fortran or C++, and using of Openfoam
-Modelling experience in the field of turbulent spray flames
-A willingness to quickly learn about flamelet-based reduction techniques

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 Dr. Ebrahim Abtahizadeh (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

Funding Notes

Award Details: Full studentships available for outstanding candidates/ Self-funded candidates also considered

Eligibility: UK/EU/International students with the required entry requirements