Are you passionate in playing a role in sustainable energy transition and manufacturing by developing innovative technologies for metal powder production? Do you enjoy applying both experimental and computational approaches to solve complex fluid dynamics challenges?
Position PhD-student
Irène Curie Fellowship No
Department(s) Mechanical Engineering
FTE 1,0
Date off 01/12/2024
Reference number V35.7838
We are looking for a talented PhD candidate to join our research team focused on advanced atomization processes for producing high-quality metal powders. This project will combine physical experiments and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling to deepen our understanding of the atomization process—a crucial step in powder metallurgy (PM) and additive manufacturing (AM).
Project description
The production of metal powders for PM and AM requires high sphericity, uniform particle distribution, and optimal size characteristics. Molten metal atomization is the key process that transforms molten material into fine, spherical particles using high-velocity gas streams. This project aims to develop an experimentally validated CFD model for this process, advancing the understanding of the physical and chemical mechanisms involved in close-coupled gas atomization (CCGA).The overall objective of this study is the development of the experimentally validated CFD model for molten metal atomization. To pursue the overall objective, in this project we aim to:
At TU/e, a numerical framework describing the molten metal droplet behavior during gas atomization is under development. This model is crucial as it provides a theoretical basis for understanding and predicting the behavior of molten metal during atomization. The model must include: (i) primary breakup, (ii) secondary breakup, (iii) coupling between primary and secondary breakups.
To validate and refine our CFD model, we need experimental data of spray and droplet characteristics. At Technion, digital inline holography experiments on close-coupled gas atomization (CCGA) have been performed using water and air. The setup and experimental technique will be used to carry out atomization experiments of glycerol/water mixtures (change in viscosity) and solutions with surfactants (change in surface tension). These liquids with different physical properties are used to mimic the typical properties of molten metal. The experiments will provide critical data on velocity and droplet size distributions, as well as the number of droplets per unit volume and their spatial distribution in the spray.
Validation is essential to ensure the CFD model's accuracy and reliability. The gas atomization CFD model developed at TU/e will be validated using the experimental results obtained from DIH at Technion. This validation will confirm the model's ability to accurately simulate the atomization process.
Key Responsibilities:
Why Join Us?
This PhD position offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge research that impacts industries such as additive manufacturing, steelmaking, and energy storage. You will gain access to state-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities and contribute to sustainable, innovative manufacturing technologies.
If you are an enthusiastic researcher with a passion for fluid dynamics and atomization processes, we encourage you to apply.
Project team
You will work with a dynamic team of experts, including Dr. Giulia Finotello and Prof. Niels Deen at TU/e, and Prof. René van Hout at Technion. The research interests of Giulia Finotello include development of advanced experimental techniques and numerical tools to investigate spraying dynamics. Prof. René van Hout is an expert in multiphase flow and particle behavior in turbulent flows. He specializes in advanced experimental techniques such as Particle Image Velocimetry and digital holography. This collaboration will enable the development of a robust, experimentally validated multiphase and multi-scale CFD model for molten metal atomization.
As part of the EuroTech PhD program you will collaborate with Technion - Israel Institute of Technology in the group of prof. van Hout. Due to the situation in the region, a stay in Technion is not compulsory, and the possibility to perform it (6 to 12 months) will be evaluated in the future. This project is also supported by the Eindhoven Institute for Renewable Energy Systems EIRES, and you will become an active member of the EIRES community!
Talented, enthusiastic candidates with excellent analytical and communication skills holding a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, Chemical Engineering or related fields are encouraged to apply. The following skillsets are required:
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:
More information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact
Giulia Finotello, Assistant Professor, G.Finotello@tue.nl.
Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR advice, HRadviceME@tue.nl or +31 40 2475902.
Please visit www.tue.nl/jobs to find out more about working at TU/e!
Application
We invite you to submit a complete application by using the 'apply now'-button on this page.
The application should include a:
We look forward to your application and will screen it as soon as we have received it. Screening will continue until the position has been filled.
We are an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude.
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