Name of School Contact: Dr Robert Richardson

Telephone and email: R.C.Richardson<στο>Leeds.ac.uk; +44 (0)113 3432156

Website: www.engineering.leeds.ac.uk/idro/

Degree level: Research postgraduate

Scholarship type: Home/EU

Number: 1

Fees: £3,975

Maintenance: £13,863

Funding type: Research Council

National Grid Gas Transmission is moving away from predictive asset type modelling towards condition based monitoring of its critical assets. This is particularly important because these assets are ageing and many have already reached the end of their intended asset life. There is currently no available technology which can in line inspect below ground pipework on at high pressure installations (AGIs). Pipework on AGIs can be operated pressures up to 100 Bar(g), and site configurations involve complex geometries which are not possible inspect using conventional Pipeline Inspection Gauges (PIGs).

Current methods of inspection for below ground pipework on AGIs involve visual inspection via excavation which is both financially and environmentally expensive. This work will generate new learning for associated with novel techniques for robotics locomotion in extreme environments that will be of benefit to all gas transporters in UK and internationally.

The project will involve the analysis, design, fabrication and testing of robotic systems to inspect high pressure gas lines. 

A successful candidate is expected to have excellent design and analysis skills ideally with experience of mechatronic or robotic systems. They will have experience of Solidworks, Labview, and Matlab (or related software). The candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to confidently present ideas to both a technical and non-technical audience. The candidate will be expected to spend a period of time working with National Grid Transmission and be able to work effectively in an industrial environment.

The project will take place within the EPSRC National Facility for Innovative Robotic Systems – a world class national facility dedicated to the physical realization of a new generation of robotic systems.

Please contact Dr Richardson (R.C.Richardson<στο>leeds.ac.uk) to discuss this project further informally.

Value: This studentship is for 3.5 years and will cover EU/UK tuition fee rate (£3,975) as well as providing an annual stipend of approximately £13,863 per year.

The successful candidate would be expected to start in October 2014, for a period of 42 months.

How to apply:

Formal applications for research degree study should be made on-line through the University's website. Please state clearly on the funding section of the application form that you wish to be considered for the “In Line Robotic Inspection of High Pressure Installations”. In the research information section please state the name Dr R Richardson.

Minimum Academic Requirements (if English is not your first language, then candidates must also meet the University’s English language requirements):

Applications are invited from candidates with or expecting a 1st or 2:1 Honours Degree or/and distinction at Masters degree level, in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics.

Any Additional Requirements:

UK applicants will be eligible for a full award paying tuition fees and maintenance. European Union applicants will be eligible for an award paying tuition fees only, except in exceptional circumstances, or where residency has been establish for more than 3 years prior to the start of the course. Please see the link: www.epsrc.ac.uk/funding/students/Pages/eligibility.aspx