PhD Studentship: Modelling of Cobalt Hard Facing Encapsulation in Sliding Wear Applications

Project description

Cobalt-based hard facings are used extensively within the nuclear industry for sliding wear resistant applications, such as where there is a risk of galling. Galling is defined as a form of surface damage arising between sliding surfaces, distinguished by macroscopic roughening which is usually localized, and the creation of protrusions above the original surface; it often includes plastic flow or material transfer, or both, and in the most severe cases may results in parts becoming seized together.

An issue with the use of the cobalt-based alloys however, is the activation of cobalt by a neutron flux to form the cobalt-60 radionuclide; this isotope is a significant contributor to plant worker dose and the cobalt-based alloys used typically have cobalt compositions in excess of 50%. Whilst significant work is on-going in developing cobalt-free, galling resistant alloys, the use of surface coatings to encapsulate the cobalt-based alloys represents an attractive means of minimizing plant material changes whilst still delivering an effective engineering solution against wear and radiation dose.

This project will build upon work already started at the university in the modeling of vacuum thin film coatings, specifically the use of diamond-like-carbon coatings, in sliding wear in a simple water environment. This project will focus on simplistic sample geometries and will establish the modeling of the baseline cobalt-base alloy system behaviour, before investigating the coating palliative. The effect of a pressurized water reactor environment will need to be incorporated into the model in order to ensure the applicability of the model and its results to real life applications.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Prof RJK Wood, nCATS Research Group, Email: r.wood@soton.ac.uk , Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 4881.

Funding and Eligibility

This 3 year studentship covers UK/EU level tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend at the standard EPSRC rate, which is £14,777 for 2018/19.

The funding available is competitive and will only be awarded to an outstanding applicant. As part of the selection process, the strength of the whole application is taken into account, including academic qualifications, personal statement, CV and references.

For further guidance on funding, please contact feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

How to Apply

Click here to apply and select the programme - PhD in Engineering and the Environment. Please enter the title of the PhD Studentship in the application form.