Optimizing the Mechanical Performance of 3D Printed Aluminium Alloys Using Multiscale Experimental and Computational Techniques

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, is a novel method of making three dimensional (3D) components in layer by layer fashion.

Selective laser melting (SLM) is one of the most promising metal AM methods where 3D components are fabricated by using a high-energy laser beam to fuse the pre-deposited metal powder. The interest in SLM is growing within a number of industrial sectors (i.e., aerospace, medical, oil & gas, marine and defence etc.) due to its ability to produce complex netshape components directly from a CAD model allowing for increased design freedom without the constraints of traditional methods. Hence, this makes SLM a key method of a great potential in reducing manufacturing cost in comparison with conventional manufacturing techniques. There is currently a lack of knowledge regarding the influence of process variables on the integrity and properties of as-fabricated material. Hence, determining unknown relationships between material performance and process parameters remain a primarily important engineering task which currently represents barrier to extensive use of this technology, especially in safety-critical applications. Successful establishment of these relationships will provide a robust platform for the optimisation of SLM parameters to manufacture parts with target design properties.

The overall aim of this project is to develop an effective combination of experimental and computational methods to establish the relation between pre- and post-process parameters and their ultimate effects on the mechanical behaviour of SLMed aluminium alloys. Hence, tailored fatigue life and residual stresses can be obtained by optimizing these process parameters so that laser melting of aluminium alloys can open up completely new possibilities and applications across many industries. To achieve our goal, in-situ experimental techniques such as X-ray micro computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy will be employed

The successful candidate should have (or expect to achieve) a minimum of a UK Honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent) in Engineering, Applied Physics or Applied Mathematics.

Enthusiasm, can-do attitude and strong skills in solid mechanics, and experimental and numerical techniques (or strong motivation to learn these), and willingness to preform experiments are a must. Preference will be given to an applicant who can demonstrate both a clear research potential and their suitability for research in this project.


The start date for the project is 1 September 2018. The advert will be removed if a suitable candidate is found before the advertised closing date, so an early application is advised.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Formal applications can be completed online: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/postgraduate/apply. You should apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering, to ensure that your application is passed to the correct person for processing.

NOTE CLEARLY THE NAME OF THE SUPERVISOR AND EXACT PROJECT TITLE YOU WISH TO BE CONSIDERED FOR ON THE APPLICATION FORM.

Informal inquiries can be made to Dr M Kartal ([Email Address Removed]) with a copy of your curriculum vitae and cover letter. All general enquiries should be directed to the Postgraduate Research School ([Email Address Removed]).