Research Theme: Dynamics, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment

Deadline: Applications will be accepted at any time until the position is filled

Wind turbines are often sited in remote locations where they are exposed to adverse weather conditions and the blades are prone to ice formation. Resulting damage and/or costly shutdowns must be avoided by effective ice protection systems which are typically thermally based and consume significant power during operation. This project will develop an innovative low power de-icing system that exploits guided ultrasonic waves to remove ice from the blades’ leading edge and low frequency vibrations to de-ice elsewhere. The project will involve modelling and analysis of vibration and wave propagation phenomena to optimise for debonding of ice whilst safeguarding the integrity of the composite structure. Some experimentation will also be undertaken for model validation purposes.

Applicants should have a good first degree and/or Master's degree in mechanical, aeronautical or related engineering subject and have the organisational skills and initiative to carry out independent research. The successful applicant will join the Dynamics Group of the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, University of Southampton but will spend the majority of their time at the National Structural Integrity Centre (NSIRC) at Granta Park, Cambridge.

The funding covers EU/UK fees and stipend. Overseas students may have to cover the difference between EU/UK fees and international fees.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Tim Waters, Email:tpw<στο>isvr.soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 23 8059 4979.