This doctoral thesis is proposed by University west, Sweden. It includes 
developing models and simulation tools using both computational fluid dynamics 
(multi-physics approach for free surface thermal flow) and reduced models (full-
scale approach). It aims to predict additive manufacturing using a laser beam to 
melt and deposit Ni-superalloy wire feedstock, and gain insight into the 
formation of defects during solidification of this metal (so called hot cracking 
defect).  

Additive manufacturing is attracting increasing attention for the fabrication of 
complex metal structures with minimal material wastage. At University West, a 
strong research environment in additive manufacturing spanning laser, electron 
beam, and electric arc heat sources and wire and powder feedstocks has taken 
shape with the aid of numerous funded projects implemented in close cooperation 
with industry. Additive manufacturing of large components in Ni-superalloy using 
laser direct energy deposition with wire (LDED-w) is thought to be a key method 
for the sustainable production of aircraft engines enabling the lowering of CO2 
emission, and the transition to fossil-free fuels. However, this production is 
still hindered due to hot cracking defects.

Therefore, this doctoral thesis aims to develop multi-physics and full-scale 
models to predict hot cracking susceptibility in produced components. 
Measurements from experiments conducted in another ongoing project will provide 
data for model validation and reliability analysis. The gained knowledge will 
contribute to maturing LDED-w into a sustainable and robust production 
technology for high-quality components.

To achieve these aims, potential research questions to be addressed include:

- How to model thermal convection, solidification, and solid stress in LDED-w of 
Ni-superalloy to reach predictive simulation of hot cracking?

- What are the governing relationships between process parameters, process 
physics, and hot cracking formation in LDED-w processing of Ni-superalloy?

- What hot cracking criterion can be established for developing a full-scale 
model (also called a reduced model)?

- What is the reliability of the developed multi-physical and full-scale models?


Qualification requirements:
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To qualify for appointment as a PhD, a student must 

- hold a degree at the master’s level in Mechanics, or Applied Physics, or 
Engineering Mathematics, or Engineering Physics, or equivalent, with a thesis 
project corresponding to at least one full-time quarter of study. The 
eligibility requirements may be fulfilled by studies in Sweden or abroad.

- and have the following mandatory qualifications: 

   . Documented experience of modeling in mechanics
   . Documented experience in computational fluid dynamics
   . Documented experience in programming
   . Documented ability in oral and written English communication

Other qualifications that are relevant but not mandatory :

- Experience in thermal mechanics
- Experience in material mechanics
- Experience in free surface flow
- Knowledge of metal fusion processes
- Experience of C++ programming
- Experience of OpenFOAM
-  prior publication
- Willingness to travel and perform tasks related to the doctoral studies 
outside of University West if needed
- Ability to communicate in Swedish

For more information, please use the URL provided in Contact Information (see 
below).

Application no later than 2024-08-31.
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Applications are to be submitted electronically through the University West web-
based recruitment tool (to be accessed with the provided URL).

The application must include:

- CV/Personal qualifications
- Personal letter containing
   Interest in the research topic.
   Previous experience regarding the proposed research topic and its research 
methods and scientific theories.
   Motive to pursue doctoral studies
- Degree project of second level of higher education
- Degree certificate of first and second level of higher education in the 
original language and in translation
- Diploma Supplement in original language and in translation
- Course list/transcript of all semesters for bachelor's and master's degrees in 
original language and in translation
- Other documents which the applicant wishes to invoke