BCAST/ Investigation of deformation modes in the development of manufacturing-induced property enhanced AA6xxx series Aluminium Alloys
Applications are invited for an EPSRC iCASE funded PhD studentship at BCAST for the project: Investigation of deformation modes in the development of manufacturing-induced property enhanced AA6xxx series Aluminium Alloys, starting 1 October 2024. Successful applicants will receive an elevated annual stipend (bursary) of approximately £23,000, plus payment of full-time Home/EU tuition fees for a period of 48-months (4 years).
Project Details
This project is in partnership with Constellium who are leading the way in lightweighting the future generations of sustainable vehicles by the development of high strength AA6xxx series aluminium extrusion alloys, with tensile yield strength (Rp0.2) above 400MPa and >10% elongation. Innovative thermomechanical processing routes have been developed to achieve the best combinations of strength, ductility and crack resistance and further reduce weight. The process involves a pre-aging step carried out after extrusion and quenching followed by a plastic deformation processing step and subsequently a post-deformation artificial ageing. The deformation process increases dislocation density by interaction with the precipitates formed during pre-ageing.
We are looking for someone to drive forward the development of the thermomechanical processing technique by investigating the affect different deformation modes (e.g. stretching, electromagnetic pulse forming, cycle deformation, etc.) have on the final mechanical properties. In particular how forming processes used in the manufacturing of complex components can be utilized to induce beneficial mechanical property increases.
BCAST is a specialist research centre focusing on light metallic material related research with an international reputation and hosts the UKRI Interdisciplinary Centre for Circular Metals. BCAST is well equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for metal processing, materials characterization and solidification science. We cover fundamental research, technological development and industrial applications in the field of processing and solidification of light metals. For more information see .
The successful applicant will receive training in the use of the facilities for metal processing as well as the characterization facilities to understand the fundamental science behind this exciting new industrial process. The research conducted as part of this PhD programme will directly contribute to the activities of the Constellium University Technology Centre (UTC) established with BCAST and form part of the ongoing strategic alliance between the two parties.
Please contact Prof. Geoffrey Scamans (geoffrey.scamans@brunel.ac.uk) or Dr. Zaidao Li (zaidao.li@constellium.com ) to find out more about the project or to arrange an informal discussion about the studentship.
Skills and Experience
Applicants should have a background in metallurgical or mechanical engineering with familiarity and interest in metals and alloys and their processing.
The applicant will need to demonstrate a high level of motivation as well as the ability to study independently and think critically and should also be able to collaborate with others and communicate effectively, orally or in writing.
Eligibility
Applicants will have or be expected to receive a minimum 2:1 or 1st class degree in Engineering. A Masters qualification is an advantage but not essential.
To be eligible to apply for this studentship, applicants should be “UK Residents” as defined by the EPSRC. Please check your suitability
To be treated as a home student, candidates must meet one of these criteria:
- Be a UK national (meeting residency requirements)
- Have settled status
- Have pre-settled status (meeting residency requirements)
- Have indefinite leave to remain or enter.
How to apply
Please e-mail your application comprising of all the documents listed below to cedps-pgr-office@brunel.ac.uk by Noon on 15 March 2024:
- Your up-to-date CV;
- A one A4 page personal statement setting out why you are a suitable candidate (i.e.: your skills and experience);
- A copy of your degree certificate(s) and transcript (s);
- Names and contact details for two academic referees;
- Evidence of English language capability to IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in all sections), if applicable
Interviews will start from the second week of April 2024