Advanced non-contact surface temperature measurement for hot forming applications

This is a call for a funded PhD studentship at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Strathclyde, in the area of novel non-contact surface temperature measurement.

Advanced manufacturing of formed metal components often occurs at temperatures in excess of 1000 °C. The reliable determination of the temperature of a part, and of the mould, during processes such as super plastic forming or forging is critical to its success. Uncertainty tolerances can be as low as ±5 °C or 0.5% of temperature. Poor thermal control can result in component structural weakness, early failure and poor dimensional integrity. For this reason additional and time consuming material analysis if often needed to determine if the product is fit for purpose. This in turn can lead to a significant level of scrap.

The aim of this project is to address a pressing industrial need for improved non-contact surface temperature measurement, and specifically - for the first time - to establish in-situ traceable* temperatures. Specifically, to:

develop optical and/or laser based novel techniques that are capable of remotely measuring the component (and mould) surface temperature even in the presence of high levels of background thermal radiation and when the surface emissivity is unknown
integrate the new technique with thermal imaging such that reliable and traceable 2D temperature maps of the component (and mould) can be obtained
construct one or more finite element thermal radiation models to demonstrably establish traceable low uncertainty surface temperatures in a specific industrial environment
The project will build on existing expertise in reliable applied thermometry at NPL - the UK’s national measurement institute in London. Novel instrumentation will be developed in cooperation with NPL and be deployed on a full scale high temperature forge operating at the Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) at the University of Strathclyde.

*Traceable means that the temperatures will be reliably linked to the ITS-90 (the temperature scale currently in use around the world) by an unbroken chain of validated measurements.

Candidates are required to hold a first or second class Honours degree (minimum 2.1) or MSc with Distinction in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electronic/Electrical Engineering or a related and relevant degree. Practical experience, particularly in design and use of optical systems and exposure to photonics, industrial engineering, manufacturing systems or measurement systems as part of undergraduate or postgraduate studies would be of benefit. Candidate must be willing to write software and in particular experience of Labview would be an advantage.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate enthusiasm, creativity, resourcefulness and a mature approach to learni