PhD Engineering Studentship: Analysis and Optimization of Friction Damping Devices for Gas-turbine Bladed Disks

A 3.5 year PhD Engineering studentship under the supervision of Dr Evgeny Petrov.

Blade vibrations in compressor and turbine bladed disks are one of the critical issues in designing gas-turbine engines. The variable rotation speeds, complex loading and operating conditions cause significant blade vibrations. These vibrations, if not properly controlled and reduced, can lead to premature blade failure due to high-cycle fatigue, reducing the efficiency and safety of the gas-turbine engines. The development of robust damper devices that reduce the vibration levels is of paramount importance. 

This project is intended to perform numerical studies and develop a methodology for the numerical analysis aimed at the effective damping of resonance regimes in bladed disks of gas-turbine engines using friction dampers. The multi-harmonic nonlinear vibrations of bladed disks with friction dampers will be studied and optimised to reduce the vibration stresses. The overall goal is to develop and gain insight into the effects of friction dampers of different designs, and to develop approaches for effective damping of resonance vibrations across a wide range of possible vibration modes in bladed disks.   

The PhD studies will be performed within a research project fully funded by a respected gas-turbine engine company and in close cooperation with it.  The results will allow the industrial customer to make effective design decisions aimed at increasing the lifetime and efficiency of gas-turbine engines.  

Funding

As a recipient of this studentship, you will receive: 

• a tax-free stipend at the standard rate for 3.5 years- currently £20,780 pa for 25/26 
• a fee waiver at the UK or international rate for 3.5 years 
• a one-off Research and Training Support Grant of £2,000 

Eligibility

The PhD position would suit motivated candidates with knowledge and interest in structural dynamics, finite element analysis, programming and numerical methods. Applicants are expected to have achieved or be about to achieve a First-class honours MEng/MSc degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering or other related courses.  

The University of Sussex believes that the diversity of its staff and student community is fundamental to creative thinking, pedagogic innovation, intellectual challenge, and the interdisciplinary approach to research and learning. We celebrate and promote diversity, equality and inclusion amongst our staff and students. As such, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. 

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, although the selection process will start from 1st July 2025. 

How to apply

Apply online for a full time PhD in Engineering (SEP2025) using our step-by-step guide. 

For project-specific queries, please email y.petrov@sussex.ac.uk.

For general application queries, please email phd.engineering@sussex.ac.uk.

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