PhD Research Project: Study of thermal sprayed coatings for automotive and aerospace applications
Introduction:
Thermal spraying is a technology that is used to apply protective coatings to a wide range of materials and components. To ensure high-quality and functional coatings, it is necessary to conduct systematic research on the deposition process and material characterisation.
Abstract:
Thermal spraying is a technology that enhances or restores the surface of a solid material. The process can be used to apply coatings to a variety of materials and components in order to provide resistance to wear, erosion, cavitation, corrosion, abrasion or heat. The thermal spray processes can be categorized into three basic groups according to the method of energy generation such as (1) combustion (flame spray, HVOF) and (2) plasma spraying (wire-arc spraying), and (3) compressed gas expansion (cold spray). There are several challenges to obtain high-quality functional deposits because (1) every material combination (coating and substrate) is unique based on its intended applications, (2) dependent on selection of complex process parameters, and (3) requires an in-depth understanding of their microstructure and mechanical properties. These investigations need to be systemically carried out to ensure the deposited coating can be useful for the automotive and aerospace industries.
PhD Research Project: Laser welding of metallic materials for industrial applications
Introduction:
Laser beam welding is a method of joining metal or thermoplastic components using lasers. While the heat input is less than with conventional welding processes, numerous concerns must be addressed because they impact the joint quality, such as cracking and inconsistencies in the microstructure and mechanical characteristics.
Abstract:
Laser beam welding is a precise and highly efficient welding method that is demanded in industries such as aerospace, automotive, electronics, and medical for the deposition of metallic materials. Metals are widely used because of their durability and strength. However, metallic components need to be modified or repaired due to wear and tear; hence, laser welding of metals is suitable due to its lower heat-input advantage over conventional welding processes. Despite this, there are still several issues with the quality of the welded joint, such as (1) the inconsistency of mechanical and chemical properties of the welded joint, (2) hot cracking and dilution of welded material, and (3) uncontrolled heat affected zone and defects. Therefore, to solve these issues, research on laser welding of metals must be conducted at a fundamental level by investigating the laser-thermal interaction and monitoring the evolution of properties. This fundamental knowledge will help optimise the laser welding process for targeted applications.
PhD Research Project: Study of metallic depositions by MIG welding for restoration of metal structures
Introduction:
Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding is an arc welding method that creates a deposit by heating and feeding a continuous solid wire electrode into the weld pool through a welding gun. However, there are many challenges with the quality of a welded joint, including cracking and insufficient bonding. These issues may be better understood by a series of parametric studies and in-depth material characterisation, which will benefit the industry.
Abstract:
Metallic alloys are widely used in many applications due to their durability and strength, but do suffer from wear and tear over time. Metal Inert Gas (MIG) is widely used in the industry and accounts for more than 50% of all weld metal deposits (fabrication/modification/repair). It is an arc welding process that uses a continuous solid wire electrode heated and fed into the weld pool from a welding gun. However, there are still several issues with the quality of the metallic welded joint, such as poor penetration, cracking and uncontrolled heat-affected zones. Therefore, to solve the issues that occur in MIG welding of metals, the study will focus on (1) understanding the changes in microstructure, chemical composition, and mechanical properties through a series of parametric studies, and (2) exploring new weld compositions or deposition methods to improve weld quality and to create new opportunities for the industry.