PhD position in Experimental and computational investigation of cavitation phenomena in heavy liquid metals
@KU Leuven posted 1 week agoJob Description
This PhD project aims to investigate cavitation phenomena in heavy liquid metals, specifically lead and lead-bismuth alloys, which are utilized as coolants in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced Generation IV nuclear reactors. Cavitation – the formation and collapse of vapor cavities in a liquid – is a significant challenge in these nuclear systems, particularly for the primary pump impeller. It can lead to increased material erosion, vibrations, and noise, potentially compromising the primary pump’s integrity and the longevity of nuclear energy systems.
The research focuses on the development of new methods to accurately predict cavitation in heavy liquid metals through a combination of computational and experimental approaches. The computational aspect involves developing advanced CFD models tailored to the unique properties of heavy liquid metals, such as high density, non-wetting behavior, and low vapor pressure. The new models should improve the accuracy of cavitation predictions in heavy liquid metal environments.
A dedicated ultrasonic cavitation facility will be used in the project to verify the computational models experimentally, by creating cavitation under controlled circumstances as a function of several key parameters, such as temperature, pressure, and the amplitude of ultrasonic vibrations. Since the set-up is designed in accordance with international standards, it facilitates a direct comparative analysis with results obtained in other laboratories across different liquids and materials.
An in-depth understanding of the parameters influencing cavitation and the integration of this knowledge into accurate CFD simulations, despite the differences in the cavitation formation mechanisms between ultrasonic and hydrodynamic cavitation, will enhance the accuracy of cavitation predictions in realistic applications, particularly in pump impellers. This will enable the optimization of the cavitation margin, improving pump reliability and lifespan without increasing the cost of the reactor system.
Profile
You are a highly motivated, enthusiastic, and communicative researcher, and you have an interest in both experiments and numerical simulations. Moreover, you are a team player that enjoys collaborating within a big research team, and have
- A master’s degree in Engineering or Sciences
- A background in related fields such as fluid mechanics and heat and mass transfer
- The qualities to carry out independent research, demonstrated, e.g., by the grades obtained on your MSc thesis
- An excellent command of the English language, both in spoken and written form
- A critical mindset
Offer
- A doctoral scholarship of four years and, if successful, a PhD in Engineering Science
- The opportunity to be active in an exciting and international research environment, engage in research collaborations and participate at international conferences
- A full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation after one year
Interested?
Please do not apply via the KU Leuven online system, but apply here instead: Experimental and computational investigation of cavitation phenomena in heavy liquid metals | SCK CEN (link: www.sckcen.be/nl/opleidingen/thesis-and-internship-topics/experimental-and-computational-investigation-cavitation-phenomena-heavy-liquid-metals)
For more information, please contact Dr. Mikhail Iarmonov (mikhail.iarmonov@sckcen.be) or Dr. Serguei Gavrilov (serguei.gavrilov@sckcen.be)
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