Supervisory Team: Robert Wood, Georges Limbert and Dave Stewart (RRSL)
Project description
Hard facing alloys, such as those used in nuclear power plant, are composite materials comprising carbides (and other hard phases), in galling resistant metallic matrices. Examples include the cobalt-based alloys, however due to cobalt activation by a neutron flux, iron-based hard facings are now in development and deployment. Whilst the role of the matrix has been more extensively studied, the role of the hard phase is less well understood, but evidence suggests that increasing the hard phase content increases the galling resistance of the alloy – albeit at the expense of ductility etc. This project aims to identify the role and mechanism by which hard phase support galling resistance to support the production of a microstructural model which allows the role of the hard phase to be investigated under a range of operating loads informed by experiments. This project will be sponsored by Rolls-Royce Submarines, Derby and the student will receive invitations to their annual sponsored student conference. The student would have support to attend two international conferences and would gain skills in surface engineering, advanced experimental techniques, modelling and research-industry interactions.
If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Robert Wood, nCATS Research Group, Email: [email protected] , Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 594881.
Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).
Closing Date : Applications should be received no later than 31 March 2024 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.
Funding: Funding for tuition fees and a living stipend are available on a competitive basis. Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
How To Apply
Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) . Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Robert Wood.
Applications should include:
Research Proposal
Curriculum Vitae
Two reference letters
Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date
For further information please contact: [email protected]
The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.