EngD studentships
Residual stress characterisation in forgings for aeroengine application
The development of more advanced nickel-base superalloys with improved high temperature mechanical properties has required the development of advanced thermo-mechanical processing routes. These have been developed to optimize component mechanical properties, whilst avoiding the generation of large residual stresses, which may cause catastrophic failure of component during heat treatment or distortion during machining operations, hence increasing scrap rate. Considering the costs of such highly engineered aerospace components this is clearly a very undesirable outcome.
For this reason it is important to develop a better understanding of how the residual stresses are generated during the forging and subsequent thermal processing steps. By understanding the stresses that develop at each stage of the manufacturing process it will be possible to develop more advanced, "smart" cooling processes.
At the same time, it is necessary to develop better strategies to mitigate arising stresses during subsequent annealing heat treatments without compromising the highly sensitive superalloy microstructures and mechanical properties.
The project will provide a fundamental underpinning to current efforts aimed at improving residual stress and life component prediction capabilities within Rolls-Royce and their supply chain. Some of the experiments required for this project will be carried out at large scale research facilities using neutron diffraction.
Degree Type
4 year EngD
Eligibility
Minimum 2.1 or MSc
Funding
EngD studentship with £5k top up for student from Rolls-Royce. Funding for UK students only.
Start Date
Not later than 01.10.2008
Application Deadline
31.07.2008
Reference
EngD/07/MP/01
Supervisor Contact Details
For further information about the project, please contact:
Email: michael.preuss@manchester.ac.uk
Tel: 0161 3063560
Admissions Contact
Postgraduate Team, School of Materials
Email: pg-materials@manchester.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)161 306 4824
How to Apply
You can apply for postgraduate opportunities online quoting the project reference number.