A Multi-scale model to predict porosity formation within TIG welding operations

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding processes are commonly used across a number of industries, including aerospace and power generation, due to their low equipment costs and high-integrity welds. The modelling of welding operations has become of considerable importance to industry, as it allows for a more efficient identification of the necessary processing parameters to generate a weld with the required microstructure and integrity.

Physics-based modelling approaches for welding applications are being developed. These physics-based approaches allow for the most detailed modelling capability, and in turn the most accurate predictions regarding the weld pool features. As porosity is such a critical, life-limiting feature that can arise during a weld, the understanding of porosity formation and its causes is highly desirable to industry.

The intention for the PhD student is to develop the current physics-based weld modelling capability, such that it makes accurate predictions for a TIG welding process, and can consider the true physical phenomena that lead to regions of porosity forming within the welded structure. This will be achieved through the development of a multiscale materials modelling approach which will be used to develop component level models of the process.

The PhD candidate will be required to have an undergraduate degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical or Civil Engineering, Physics or any other physical science subject. The candidate will need to have a good understanding of metallic alloy systems, a level of proficiency with computer programming and a knowledge of coding languages, and good numeracy skills.