AddressThe research work will centre on three main technical areas:
- Dynamic characterisation of real (production) inertia and linear Friction Welding machines at Rolls-Royce and the development of predictive models that allow local (near weld) boundary conditions to be approximated from machine data reports.
- Design and development experimental methods that allow for flow stress and damage characterisation in Nickel and Titanium alloys under Friction Welding representative loading conditions.
- The characterisation of post weld material and structure conditions (residual stresses and microstructure, for example) using a variety of experimental techniques.
Candidates must have extensive and demonstrable experience in mechanical characterisation of both materials (ideally Nickel and Titanium alloys) and systems. Experience with Friction Welding processes and an appreciation of the complications/nuances associated with them is highly desirable.
Candidates should have a good understanding of deformation mechanisms in metallic materials across a range of loading conditions appropriate to the Friction Welding processes. They should have the ability to use programming software (e.g. Matlab and Python) for the modelling and analysis of engineering systems and components. Demonstrable machine learning experience is essential. Candidates should also be able to demonstrate experience in engineering design. Candidates must have or be near completion of a PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, ideally in a field closely related to mechanical characterisation of engineering systems and/or material characterisation.
Candidates will need to be able to undertake high-quality research and carry out communication and knowledge disseminations activities (which include writing reports writing journal publications, presenting at conferences, and attending networking events) with minimal supervision.
