The University of Sheffield Electrical Machines and Drives Group
(in collaboration with Romax Technology)
Project title: Understanding the reliability of wind turbine generators and generator bearings
Duration: up to 18 months
The University of Sheffield Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering invites applications to undertake research on the reliability of wind turbine generators and generator bearings, within the Electrical Machines and Drives (EMD) Group. This project is being undertaken in collaboration with Romax Technology Ltd.
The successful candidate will be based in Sheffield but will work very closely with engineers at Romax and will be expected to spend a short period of time working in the Romax headquarters in Nottingham, UK.
Romax Technology are leading global experts in the wind turbine industry, specialising in wind turbine gearbox, bearing and drivetrain design and analysis. The renewable energy sector is experiencing rapid growth and offers many exciting opportunities for career progression. It is anticipated that the right candidate will have further opportunities with Romax beyond the end of this project.
Applicants should possess experience in the design and analysis of electromagnetic devices, preferably electrical machines. Applicants should possess, or be working towards, a PhD (or have equivalent experience) in the design and analysis of electrical machines or a related discipline. This post is fixed-term for up to 18-months.
The project requires extensive use of finite element and analytical techniques for the modelling of the electromagnetic forces of wind turbine generators. In addition, the design and construction of a test rig for validation of the developed model will also be required, using facilities available within the EMD group. The post provides an ideal opportunity to undertake high quality research within an industrial context. The applicant will be encouraged and supported to attend international conferences and publish articles in learned society journals.
Main duties and responsibilities include:
- Development of analytical and finite element models of the electromagnetic forces in permanent magnet generators.
- Simulations and investigation of the influence of rotor displacements and manufacturing tolerances on electromagnetic forces.
- Liaise with engineers at the industrial partner concerning the integration of developed electromagnetic models with their in-house modelling tools.
- Contribute to the development of a test-rig for the validation of the developed electromagnetic models.
- Design, develop and refine experimental apparatus.
- Analyse and record data and refine developed models.