Additive manufacture (AM) of graded microstructures for military aeroengine components

This is an industrial collaboration project with DSTL to explore manufacturing processes and materials of the future.

Applications are invited from graduates with a first class, or upper second-class degree in an appropriate discipline such as, materials science and engineering, physics or mechanical engineering for a PhD project on the development of functionally-graded microstructures for military aero-engine components using metal additive manufacturing, also known as metal 3D printing.

Selective laser melting, a metal 3D printing process, involves the use of a laser to melt 2D layers of a 3D shape to build a structure from the bottom-upwards in a layered fashion. It has ben previously used to manufacturing various structures that are used in the defence sector (e.g. aero-engines, missile structures, and armours). A programme of detailed research is required to understand the utility of this technique in the manufacturing of tailored microstructure through controlling the process parameters, to eventually control the mechanical properties and performance. For instance, through controlling the heat input of the process, coarse grain structures can be generated in order to achieve a better high temperature capability. Similarly, through controlling the cooling rates and laser parameters, fine grains can be created, resulting in a higher strength. For further information, the applicants are advised to read this paper https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matchar.2013.12.012.

This PhD project is sponsored by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) through an industrial case award provided by EPSRC.

The student will be based in the advanced materials and processing laboratory, University of Birmingham http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/AMPLab.

Informal enquires about the project can be directed to Professor Attallah ([Email Address Removed])

How to apply:
• Apply directly via the University of Birmingham Postgraduate application system, the Postgraduate portal. (Apply button)
• Please detail the advertised supervisor and project title under the ’Research Information’ section of the application form.