PhD Studentship: Comprehensive Elasto-viscoplastic Models for Ni-base Superalloys - for Industrial Casting Modelling Applications

ARCANE is a collaborative research project across three leading UK universities and Rolls-Royce plc. The project aims to develop the state-of-the-art scientific understanding of nucleation defect formation within directionally solidified single crystal (SX) castings, and their role in the reduction in mechanical performance, through novel experimental methods, computational materials engineering modelling tools and machine learning methods. The project brings together world-leading experts in both academia and industry, across fields including superalloy metallurgy, microstructure characterisation, investment casting processing, computational modelling of casting processes at a macro-scale / component level and at a dendritic growth level, and machine learning methods for process optimisation.

Title: Comprehensive elasto-viscoplastic models for Ni-base superalloys for industrial casting models

Description: A ‘Comprehensive’ material model for investment casting simulation requires data across a wide range of operating temperatures (from room temperature up to pouring temperature) and at appropriate cooling rates seen in SX casting. For industrial application, the developed elastic-viscoplastic materials models should be implemented via FE simulation code User Functions by the PhD candidate. The PhD project, based at Rolls-Royce and the University of Birmingham's joint High Temperature Research Centre (HTRC) will involve experimental measurements of high temperature behaviour. The desired end-product of the PhD project is industrial application (runtime and resource restrictions) for prediction of conditions likely to cause RX during heat treatment. Quantification of errors associated with implementation in an industrial setting would be important.

Candidates should have a 1st class or 2:1 Undergraduate degree or a Masters degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, or within a related Science & Engineering discipline. A background in microstructural characterisation, computational modelling methods, and/or advanced mechanical testing would be advantageous.

The School of Metallurgy & Materials at the University of Birmingham is committed to promote diversity, equality and inclusivity within our staff and student populations. We aim to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups within materials science and engineering.

To apply for this PhD studentship, please provide: curriculum vitae (CV), Cover Letter summarising your research interests and suitability for the position, and the contact details of two Referees. Please send to Professor Nick Green, the Principal Investigator for the Prosperity Partnership ARCANE project, at the project’s dedicated contact email: ARCANE@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

Funding notes:

The project is funded by the UKRI EPSRC Prosperity Partnerships award. UK Home students are eligible for the full funding package.

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