Investigate sub surface damage and its impact on structural dynamic behaviour PhD

The research in this doctoral opportunity will analytical and numerically model the changes in modal responses of a structure under thermo-mechanical loads.

Sub-surface fatigue in mechanical structures affecting their fundamental modes within conventional sensing limits. As per published research, these effects are mostly investigated under dynamic loads on different boundary conditions. Analytical, numerical and empirical studies clearly indicate that the dissipated strain energy during crack propagation affects the modal values of the structure. However, there is still need to perform comprehensive research that can relate the mentioned parameters specifically under thermo-mechanical loads. The cyclic thermal loads along with dynamic loading may represent a more practical loading scheme as experienced on mechanical components or structures.

In this research, analytical and numerical modelling will be performed on a structure with different boundary conditions. The structure will be loaded at resonance with a cyclic thermal load applied at the ends. The changes in the modal responses of the structure will be determined during the subsurface crack initiation and propagation. The results will then be compared with the available empirical studies in the literature.

Cranfield is an exclusively postgraduate university that is a global leader for transformational research and education in technology and management. Research Excellence Framework 2014 (REF) has recognised 81% of Cranfield’s research as world leading or internationally excellent in its quality. Every year Cranfield graduates the highest number of postgraduates in engineering and technology in the UK (Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency Ltd). Cranfield Manufacturing is one of eight major themes at Cranfield University.

The manufacturing capability is world leading and combines a multi-disciplinary approach that integrates design, technology and management expertise. We link fundamental materials research with manufacturing to develop novel technologies and improve the science base of manufacturing research.

The Through-life Engineering Services (TES) Centre are among the world leaders in through-life approaches for high value systems, Condition monitoring, Damage tolerance, Asset management. TES was developed with the support of EPSRC grant of £ 11 million with the aim to develop research excellence and address the research problems in the sector of Through-life Engineering services. TES Centre is providing its state of the art academic and research services to industrial clients such as Boeing, BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Meggitt, Thales, MOD, Bombardier, QinetiQ, Thales, Network Rail, Schlumberger and Alstom.