Dr I Pinson
No more applications being accepted
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
Corrosion of structures is one of the leading causes of failure or premature deterioration of steel structures. Monitoring of critical areas of structures is often carried out at intervals using ultrasonic thickness gauges, but this is not always possible in extreme conditions. The use of permanently attached ultrasonic sensors has become more common recently but these have to be attached to the structure with mechanical devices which can relax and limit the attachment life.
TWI developed a concept of using a magnetic device which would both attach itself to a steel structure and use the magnetism to measure thickness. The concept was developed to a prototype device with wireless data transmission, however further development could be carried out to improve the accuracy and to extend the range of applications of the device.
• A study of the magnetic properties of different steels at a range of temperatures will be required in order to study the influence of parameters such as sensitivity, thickness etc. on the system response.
• Influence of different type of corrosion material on the sensor.
• Design of a high temperature sensor using Alnico permanent magnets.
• Design an underwater sensor using a different technology to transmit data.
Electronics should be tested and verified at different temperatures allowing several temperature profile applications.
This research work requires dedicated signal processing electronic, finite element modelling and mathematical algorithm development skills. Extensive experimental tests need to carried out which can be a validation for the models and improvement of the system.
** The project will be run in parallel with “Development of cost effective permanently installed corrosion monitor system using permanent magnet”
About Industrial Sponsor
The Lloyd’s Register Foundation funds the advancement of engineer-related education and research and supports work that enhances safety of life at sea, on land and in the air, because life matters. Lloyd’s Register Foundation is partly funded by the profits of their trading arm Lloyd’s Register Group Limited, a global engineering, technical and business services organisation.
Academic Requirements
Candidates should have a relevant degree at 2.1 minimum, or an equivalent overseas degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or another scientific field that includes digital signal processing. Candidates with suitable work experience and strong capacity in machine learning, programming or signal processing are particularly welcome to apply. Overseas applicants should also submit IELTS results (minimum 6.5) if applicable.
About NSIRC
NSIRC is a state-of-the-art postgraduate engineering facility established and managed by structural integrity specialist TWI, working closely with lead academic partner Brunel University, the universities of Cambridge, Manchester, Loughborough, Birmingham, Leicester and a number of leading industrial partners. NSIRC aims to deliver cutting edge research and highly qualified personnel to its key industrial partners.
http://www.nsirc.com/
Funding Notes
Up to £24k in scholarships
This project is funded by Lloyds Register Foundation, TWI and academic partners. The studentship will provide successful Home/EU students with a stipend of £16k/year and will cover the cost of tuition fees. Overseas applicants are welcome to apply, with total funding capped at £24k/year
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