PhD Studentship: Development of a Novel Smart Coriolis Flow Meter - Fluid Structure Interaction Computational Model

Manchester Metropolitan University

Project advert

The Coriolis mass flowmeter (CMF), is among the most accurate mass flowmeter products, and is widely used in the oil & gas, water & wastewater industries across the globe. CMFs determine the mass flowrate based on the phase shift of vibration of one or more flow tubes. However, the coupling effect of flow performance and vibration of structure, as the underlying mechanism of CMF operation, is not considered in the CMF model due to the challenge to solve the multiple partial differential equations simultaneously.

With the support of the combined sponsorship from the university and industrial partner, this project aims to develop a novel modelling and analysis approach to address the mathematical and technical challenges of the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) mechanisms globally. The successful PhD candidate will drive the development of FSI model to simulate the effect of fluid-solid coupling effect on the vibration of the structure. The successful candidate will work with the multidisciplinary academic team in the newly built Dalton Building with the state-of-the-art facilities equipped. Working with the industrial partner will hugely enhance the students’ capability to apply theoretical knowledge across the wide range of technical scope, along with support in validating the novel models experimentally.

Project aims and objectives

This project aims to develop a novel approach to analyse the interaction between the structure of CFM and dynamic performance of the flow. The aim will be achieved through the following objectives:

• Develop a novel approach to investigate the fluid-solid coupling effect on the performance of the CMF;
• Using machine-learning (deep learning) methods to develop a predictive model and conduct the sensitivity study to investigate the multiple factors on the performance of flow meter.

Funding

Only Home students can apply. Home tuition fees will be covered for the duration of the 3-year project.

The student will receive a standard stipend payment for the duration of the award. These payments are set at a level determined by the UKRI, currently £20,780 for the academic year 2025/26.

Specific requirements of the candidate

Essential Criteria

• BEng/BSc/MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Applied Mechanics, or related disciplines *(a minimum honours degree at UK first or upper second-class level)*
• Experience in computational fluid dynamic/finite element modelling by using commercial software such as Ansys, Abaqus, SolidWorks,etc.
• Fundamental knowledge in the fluid mechanics and solid mechanics
• Willing to travel and attend the meetings with industrial partners on site;
• Should have or willing to work within a multidisciplinary environment.

Candidates are strongly encouraged to specifically address the essential criteria outlined in the Person Specification in their covering letter.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Jiling Feng for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in the Department of Engineering.

You also need to include a standard CV and a covering letter of no more than two pages detailing how your experience and skills align with this project.

If applying online, you will need to upload your CV and covering letter in the supporting documents section or email the application form and the supporting documents to PGRAdmissions@mmu.ac.uk.

Closing date: 1 December 2025.

Expected start date April 2026.

Please quote the reference: SciEng-JF-April 2025-26-Coriolis Flow Meter