SU-3-1 Hydrogen Conversion of a Gas Turbine – Optimisation Operating Parameters for Co-Firing

About the Project

This PhD is one of a number of projects hosted by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Green Industrial Futures (CDT-GIF). We are offering pioneering research projects that will enable PhD researchers to explore key technologies and solutions that will support UK industry to reach net zero.

Project Description

This project will include experimental work on industrial pilot-scale plants at the Energy Innovation Centre – including the multi-fuel gas turbine and the hydrogen electrolyser. A number of operating parameters can be manipulated to alter the performance of a gas turbine, whether utilising natural gas, hydrogen or blends of these. This project will consider a range of operating parameters, optimising these and various process conditions to enhance the overall performance of the gas turbine employing specific indicators. Used with a complementary CFD modelling approach, the research will define the optimal values for a range of key parameters and explore how these differ for various turndown ratios and fuel blends. This will be applicable to gas turbine power stations, enabling them to devise operating strategies to enhance performance based on fuel availability and load requirements. There may also be applications for industrial gas firing plants, where fuel costs and availability may determine the operating strategy required.

Supervisors

• Prof. Mohamed Pourkashanian / cdtgreenindustrialfutures@hw.ac.uk
• Dr Karen Finney

Application Criteria

As a minimum we require candidates to have a First-class or 2:1 MEng or and MSc with merit (over 60%) in a relevant area i.e. Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Geoscience etc. Candidates for socio-politico-economic research topics will also be considered with a relevant MA. Applicants who have a First-class BSc/BEng (Hons) and can demonstrate significant relevant industry/research experience may also be considered.

Candidates should be aware of and meet the entry requirements for the university hosting the PhD studentship.

Chemical or mechanical engineering, ideally, although other backgrounds may be relevant. Some previous experience of using CFD would be useful but not essential.

Funding Notes

The programme is four years and starts in September 2026. Funding includes full UK fees, tax-free stipend (2025/2026 stipend is £20,780), plus budget for travel and consumables.