PhD Studentship - Predicting ducted propeller tip gap noise effects

Supervisory Team: Prof P.Joseph, Prof S.R.Turnock and Dr C.C.Parachuri

Project description

Do you want to help make the ocean's quieter?

The world's oceans have become increasingly noisy as the size, number and power of ships has increased. The International Maritime Organisation is looking to control ship operations to reduce noise levels. Naval Architects need better tools so that ships can both have high efficiency and reduce current noise levels.

A key noise source is that generated by propeller flow. The challenge of this PhD research programme is to answer the question of how we can design quieter propellers. In particular those which use electric rim drives. To do this we need to better understand the flow physics around blades and in a variety of gaps. Current methods for analysing the flow neglect important mechanisms. The puzzle here is to develop a new approach that combines the high resolution possible with unsteady Computational Fluid Dynamics techniques, such as Large Eddy Simulation, with better physics models. These models need to be able to capture surface effects on the behaviour of sound waves in close proximity to a surface and exchange data with a turbulent flow field. We will use experimental data from our new national anechoic wind tunnel facility to validate our predictions but the focus will be on finding computational methods that can be used by propeller designers

We are looking for a candidate who enjoys solving problems, likes to work as part of a diverse team, enjoys the intellectual excitement of finding original approaches, wants to learn new techniques and approaches as well as helping to make the oceans quieter.

You will have a strong first degree in engineering, physics or mathematics. An ability to communicate, and confidence in learning new computing skills. This studentship is fully funded through the EPSRC iCASE scheme, sponsored by Dstl so there are some national eligibility restrictions. The work needs to start by September 2021 or earlier. Advanced skills in this area are in high demand worldwide, especially as the world's shipping fleet has to rapidly decarbonise.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Stephen Turnock, Maritime Engineering, Email: srt@soton.ac.uk , Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 2488.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a high UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received at latest by 20th July 2021 and be able to start by 1st September 2021.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £15,609 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.

How To Apply

Applications should be made online. Select programme type (Research), 2021/22, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time). In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Prof P.Joseph

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts to date

Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

We aim to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.