Liquid metal filtration and cleanliness for high performance superalloys

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. The ARCANE research programme is offering a funded PhD project, as described below.

Title: Liquid metal filtration and cleanliness for high performance superalloys

Description: Rolls-Royce plc and the University of Birmingham have developed some understandings/insights and capabilities through prior research, which offers a foundation for a novel PhD project to develop a modelling capability to optimise the design of additive manufactured filters as counter-measures to the formation of oxide stringers in the liquid metal. The PhD candidate, who will study at the University of Birmingham and the University and Rolls-Royce’s joint High Temperature Research Centre, will consider liquid metal filtration methods, cleanliness & flow related casting defects, of high performance superalloy investment castings. This will include; measuring filter effectiveness for oxide removal, CFD modelling of mould flow optimisation, particle capture methods, and issues surrounding the optimisation of filter design.

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.

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

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 believe there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ member of University of Birmingham student and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified applicants, and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups within materials science and engineering.

Funding notes:

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