Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
Project Title / Reduction of tip and end-wall losses in compressors using macro/micro surface structures (Fully Funded Home Student Award)Lead Supervisor / Dr Shan Zhong
Co-Supervisor(s) / Prof Lin Li
Programme / PhD in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering
Research Theme / Aerospace
Description / In pursuit of higher efficiency, wider operating range and more compact components, methods capable of reducing pressure losses in turbomachines are constantly being sought. This research project aims to achieve a significant reduction of end-wall loss and tip leakage loss in compressors using micro/macro surface structures. At the beginning of the project, the surface features will be designed with the aid of numerical simulations and be manufactured using advanced manufacturing techniques. A series of carefully designed experiments will then be carried out in a linear cascade to investigate the effect of changing pattern geometry on end-wall losses and tip losses, to identify the optimal geometry for given incoming flow conditions and to establish the physical flow mechanisms at play. Based on the experimental results, design guidelines for selection of surface structures for practical settings will be also developed.
The successful candidate will work under the direction of an academic supervisory team with a combined research expertise in aerodynamics and manufacturing. This project will be undertaken in close collaboration with a leading industrial company in the UK, offering a unique opportunity of transferring research findings into innovative engineering designs.
To apply, please send your CV to Dr Shan Zhong, .
Skills required / Experiences with and enthusiasms about experimental work are required. Experiences with CFD are desirable but not essential.
Entry requirements can be found by selecting the relevant PhD programme at this link:
http://www.mace.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/degree/
Industrial Links / EPSRC industrial CASE award
The studentship covers the home student tuition fees and an annual stipend at the standard EPSRC rate for 3.5 years (£14,553 per year). Due to the nature of the funding, only home students will be eligible to this studentship.
Closing date for applications* / 30 April 2017
Project specific enquiries* / Preference will be given to candidates who are about to complete or have completed a Bachelor or Master degree in Engineering with a 2:1 (honors) or above.
General enquiries:
General enquiries relating to the postgraduate application process within Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering should be directed to:
Ruth Whelan - Senior PG Recruitment & Admissions Administrator
Tel: +44(0)161 275 4345
Further information about how to apply can be found at:
http://www.mace.manchester.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/apply/