PhD Studentship: Failure Analysis of Composite Sleeves for Surface Permanent Magnet Electrical Machines

University of Nottingham - Power Electronics, Machines and Control (PEMC) and Composites Research Groups

This exciting opportunity is based within the Power Electronics, Machines and Control (PEMC) and Composites Research Groups at the Faculty of Engineering, which conduct cutting-edge research into electric propulsion systems, composite materials, and advanced simulation technologies.

Vision

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join our interdisciplinary team to help address critical challenges in high-speed electrical machine design for electrified transportation and power generation. Together, we will make technological advances that support the global transition toward net-zero emissions and sustainable aerospace engineering.

Motivation

The reliability of electric propulsion systems is pivotal for next-generation energy and aerospace solutions. In particular, surface-mounted permanent magnet electrical machines are pushing performance boundaries. A major challenge is the structural integrity of the carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) sleeves used to contain the rotor’s magnets, which are prone to failure under extreme rotational stresses.

This project responds to industrial demand—highlighted by Aerospace and power generation companies—to develop robust methodologies for investigating failure mechanisms in CFRP sleeves. Your contribution will help prevent catastrophic magnet detachment and significantly enhance system reliability and safety, aligning with the UK’s NetZero targets.

Aim

You will have the opportunity to build a high-fidelity process simulation and perform experimental validation to assess the structural performance of composite sleeves under operational conditions, such as centrifugal forces, bending, and thermal stress.

You will work closely with the PEMC and Composites Research Groups, industrial partners and test centres. Physical testing, such as controlled spin-burst experiments, will complement advanced finite element analysis (FEA) in evaluating failure behaviour.

Who we are looking for

An enthusiastic, self-motivated, and resourceful candidate with a 1st or upper 2:1 degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, materials science, electrical engineering, or a related field.

Desirable skills include:

• Interest or background in composite materials, particularly in modelling and/or testing
• Basic understanding of finite element methods (FEM); any exposure to impact or burst mechanics is a plus
• Familiarity with FE simulation tools such as ANSYS or Abaqus (or willingness to learn)
• General knowledge of structural analysis and material behaviour, especially failure mechanisms
• Some experience with coding, ideally in Python or MATLAB

Funding support

This studentship is open to Home students only. It is jointly supported by the Faculty of Engineering and industrial partners which is expected to provide matched funding and in-kind contributions.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The Faculty of Engineering provides a thriving working environment for all PGRs creating a strong sense of community across research disciplines. Community and research culture is important to our PGRs and the FoE support this by working closely with our Postgraduate Research Society (PGES) and our PGR Research Group Reps to enhance the research environment for PGRs. PGRs benefit from training through the Researcher Academy’s Training Programme, those based within the Faculty of Engineering have access to bespoke courses developed for Engineering PGRs, including sessions on paper writing, networking and career development after the PhD. The Faculty has outstanding facilities and works in partnership with leading industrial partners.

Please contact Mohammad Reza Ilkhani for further information and an informal discussion regarding this PhD.