EngD Studentship: Mechanics of Deformation and Induced Surface

Integrity in Micro-cutting (Sponsored by AMRC)

University of Sheffield - Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre

Qualification Type: Professional Doctorate Placed On: 8th May 2019

Location: Sheffield Closes: 6th June 2019
Funding for: UK Students, EU Students
Funding amount: £18,000 annual stipend
Hours: Full Time
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Duration – 4 years

Funding Body - EPSRC and AMRC

Vacancy Information – Applications are invited for a fully funded 4-year EngD studentship covering UK fees and stipend /EU fees only.

Micro-cutting is increasingly used to modify the surface properties of functional surfaces as well as in the generation of mechanical systems for Micro Electro Mechanical Systems
(MEMS). In the latter, the quality of the generated surface can have a significant impact on the functional performance of the produced system. This is also influenced by the
mechanics of deformation at the tool-workpiece interface which is related to the micro-cutting tool geometries and associated features. The size of the removed material during this
process is in the same order as the microstructural constituents of most of metallic materials, therefore the mechanics of deformation during the chip separation and the produced
surfaces are significantly affected due to this size scale. This highlights the importance of the performance of the cutting tools developed for micro-cutting and the interaction of the
cutting edges with the deforming materials.

In order to develop a predictive tool to simulate material deformation as well as cutting tool interactions during micro-cutting, a comprehensive knowledge on mechanics of
deformation during micro cutting is required to understand these interactions. This will enhance the development of new cutting tools as well as provide better prediction of
functional performance in micro mechanical systems.

The research will focus on the following:

Review of the state-of-the-art knowledge in the field of micro-cutting with a focus on micro-milling processes
Design a systematic study to conduct machining trials with the development of required in-house cutting rigs to investigate mechanics of deformation and quantify machining
induced damage during micro-cutting
Conduct a detailed investigation on the required material properties and modelling strategies for the development of micro-material removal modelling tool
Develop a multi-scale predictive tool to simulate material deformation and cutting forces in the selected cutting regime

All applications should be submitted online. See the How to Apply section of the IDC in Machining Science website. Please follow the instructions carefully, and ensure that you
specify which project you are applying for and include in your statement why you are interested in the project and how you will contribute.

Applicants must have, or expect to get, a 1st or good 2:1 degree (or Masters with Merit) in a relevant science or engineering subject such as Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace
Engineering, Materials Science, or Physics.

This project is open to UK and EU applicants who have been resident in the UK for at least 3 years immediately preceding the start of the course. However, we are willing to
consider Overseas applicants, providing there is proof of means to fund the difference between home and overseas tuition fees.

https://www.ms-idc.co.uk/entry-requirements

Candidates must also be able show that their English language proficiency is at a level which allows them to successfully complete the EngD. All applicants require an English
language qualification, typically a GCSE or an IELTS test (a score of 7 or above is required, with a minimum of 6 in each component).

https://www.ms-idc.co.uk/how-to-apply

For an informal discussion, please contact the IDC Centre Team, idc-machining-science@sheffield.ac.uk.

Advert information

Type / Role:

PhDs

Subject Area(s):

Physical & Environmental Sciences

Materials Science
Physics & Astronomy
Engineering & Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering

Location(s):

Northern England