Advanced Numerical Methods for the Characterisation of Additively Manufactured Surface Texture

AM offers a number of advantages over conventional manufacturing techniques. AM products are built layer by layer. The surface topography of the previous layer will affect the succeeding layer. Therefore, the quality of each layer surface has a significant influence on manufacturing precision as well as the mechanical and material properties of the built component. This project will develop advanced numerical methods for the characterisation of various process signature features on the layer surfaces, and explore the link between the signature features and AM processes/AM product functionality.

This PhD project will investigate advanced characterisation methods for surface texture produced by additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, with the aim to link AM surface texture to AM process control and AM product functionality. This will result in an increased uptake of AM technologies into a wider range of applications. It will be achieved through fulfilling the following two objectives:

1) To develop advanced numerical characterisation methods for AM surface texture; and
2) To investigate the relevance of AM surface to AM process control and AM component properties.

The student will carry out his/her research both at the EPSRC Future Metrology Hub within the University of Huddersfield. The EPSRC Hub sets out to create ground breaking embedded metrology and universal metrology informatics systems to be applied throughout the manufacturing value chain as an essential tool to achieve significant growth and productivity gains in UK manufacturing.

Applicants must:
1. Hold a high-grade qualification, at least the equivalent of a UK First or 2:1 class degree or MSc with distinction in engineering, physics or related disciplines
2. Be proficient in both written and spoken English, and possess excellent presentation and communication skills
3. Relevant knowledge of materials is preferred.

Application procedure:
Interested applicants should send an up-to-date curriculum vitae to to Prof. Jiang ([Email Address Removed]), Dr. Lou ([Email Address Removed]) and Dr Zeng ([Email Address Removed]). To apply this studentship, the candidate should follow the instruction on hud.ac.uk/materialsdtp and submit the application form to [Email Address Removed].

Note:
Due to the funding resources, the candidates are restricted to Home/EU students. Only very excellent International students can be considered.