PhD Studentship: Theoretical and experimental investigation of screw compressor bearings for their comprehensive modelling

This PhD studentship is funded by CERES - Industrial Consortium for Compressors and Expanders in Future Energy Systems, started by The Centre for Compressor Technology.

Applications are invited for a PhD studentship in the Department of Engineering. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on Theoretical and experimental investigation of screw compressor bearings for their comprehensive modelling.

Pressure forces acting on positive displacement compressor rotors are substantial compared with turbomachinery.  Bearings are therefore a key component of rotary positive displacement machines where both the high axial and radial loads must be supported.  There are several bearing types available to carry such high pressure forces, with rolling element and hydrodynamic bearings commonly used in screw compressors.  Experimental validation of the bearing losses is challenging due to the difficulty of isolating separate contributions to the overall mechanical losses in a real machine.  This project therefore has two key aims:

Aim 1) To characterise the speed, load, and space requirements of different bearing types, and investigate opportunities for extending the current operating envelope of screw machines.

Aim 2) To specify and develop an experimental test-rig to provide focussed bearing performance measurements under controlled conditions.  This will involve the development of a modular test-bed with independent control of the pressure difference, rotational speed, and lubrication conditions. 

The test-rig will allow detailed investigation of bearing losses due to axial & radial loads under representative conditions for both oil-free and oil-flooded configurations.  The experimental data obtained will be used to develop improved models of bearing performance for compressor and expander applications.  

Eligibility and requirements 

The candidate should have first or upper second-class MEng (or equivalent, or higher) degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics or Technology. They should demonstrate aptitude for original research.

Scholarship: The studentship is for 3 years and will provide an annual tax-free stipend of £21,237 and tuition fees (Home and Overseas). 

Additional income: Each student can earn around £2,200/year on average through a teaching assistantship.

A doctoral candidate is expected to meet the following pre-requisites for PhD: 

1. Demonstrate a sound knowledge of their research area;
2. Achieve and demonstrate significant depth in at least a few chosen sub-areas relevant to their primary research area;
3. Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research, including a critical assessment of their own and others’ research;

If you are interested in applying, I will be happy to address any initial informal enquiries to n.stosic@city.ac.uk

How to apply

Online applications should be submitted via the online course prospectus

For queries regarding the application process, please contact pgr.sst.enquire@city.ac.uk

City, University of London is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in all its activities, processes, and culture for our whole community, including staff, students and visitors.

We welcome applications regardless of age, caring responsibilities, disability, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital status, nationality, pregnancy, race and ethnic origin, religion and belief, sex, sexual orientation and socio-economic background. City operates a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants.

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