Development of a Novel Smart Coriolis Flow Meter – Fluid Structure Interaction Computational Model. Industry partner: Krohne Limited

This project provides an annual stipend of £19,237. 

Project advert

The Coriolis mass flowmeter (CMF), as one of the best and most accurate flowmeters, is widely used in the water & wastewater industries. CMF determines the mass flowrate based on the phase shift of vibration of the structure. However, the coupling effect of flow performance and vibration of structure, as the underlying mechanism of CMF operation, is not considered in the CMF model due to the mathematical challenge to solve the multiple partial differential equations simultaneously.

With the support of the combined sponsorship from the university and industrial partner, this project aims to develop a novel modelling and analysis approach to address the mathematical and technical challenges of the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) mechanisms globally. The successful PhD candidate will drive the development of the FSI CMF model to simulate the effect of fluid-solid coupling effect on the vibration of the structure. The successful candidate will work with the multidisciplinary academic team in the newly built £117M Dalton Building, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Working with an industrial partner will hugely enhance the student’s capability to apply theoretical knowledge into the different areas.  

Project aims and objectives

This project aims to develop a novel approach to analyse the interaction between the structure of CFM and dynamic performance of the flow. The aim will be achieved through the following objectives:

1. Develop a novel approach to investigate the fluid-solid coupling effect on the performance of the CMF;
2. Using machine-learning (deep learning) methods to develop a predictive model and conduct the sensitivity study to investigate the multiple factors on the performance of flow meter.

Specific requirements of the candidate

Essential Criteria

• BEng/MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Applied Mechanics, or related discipline such as Aeronautic and Aerospace Engineering, Biomedical Engineering (a minimum honours degree at UK first or upper second-class level).
• Experience in computational modelling by using commercial software such as Ansys, Abaqus, SolidWorks,etc.
• Experience in computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modelling or finite element (FE) modelling.
• Solid fundamental knowledge in the fluid mechanics and vibration.
• Willing to travel and attend the meetings with industrial partners on site.
• Should have or willing to work within a multidisciplinary environment.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience of programme coding using commercial software such as Python or Matlab.
• Experience of parametric modelling.
• Evidence of good communication skills in both writing and oral such as presentation in the conference, publication in the peer reviewed journals.

Candidates are strongly encouraged to specifically address the essential criteria outlined in the Person Specification in their statement of purpose letter. 

As a PhD student, you will be expected to actively participate within the programme of study, showing good time management and organisation. You are expected to work upon and further develop initial research questions, completing tasks required to gain a PhD such as attending meetings, regularly reviewing literature, completing pertinent studies, disseminating research works/outputs at appropriate forums and writing a thesis on the topic.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact [email protected] for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in the Department of Engineering (or download the PGR application form).

You should also complete the (PGR thesis proposal and a Narrative CV) form addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have maps to the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest. 

If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section, or email the application form and statement to [email protected].

Closing date: 14 October 2024. Expected start date: January 2025 for Home students and April 2025 for International students.

Please note that Home fees are covered. Eligible International students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding.  

Please quote the reference: SciEng-2024-Coriolis-Flow-Meter