PhD Study : Theoretical Development of Supersonic Compressors for High Efficiency Industrial Heat Pumps

Summary

The electrification of industrial heating processes is seen in conjunction with combinations of waste heat recovery applications, heat networks and geothermal energy resources which are part of the UK’s heat decarbonisation pathways. The aim of this research is to model advanced vapour compression heat pump technology that incorporates high-speed compressors to improve efficiency of high temperature lift industrial heat pumps.

Given that it is beneficial to also avoid environmental impacts directly caused by the working fluids, water (R718) will be initially considered as the working fluid. High Coefficients of Performance (COP ≥ 5) at lower temperature lifts for turbo (centrifugal) compressors have been achieved but challenges remain in terms of increases in impeller size with increased temperature lift, choice of bearings (gas-lubricated, magnetic etc), efficiency, compactness and the higher speeds and temperatures proposed. Speeds of 100,000 rpm to 650,000 rpm are now feasible at lower temperatures.

Thus, the novelty is to take this technology basis and model its operation at higher temperatures and pressures (that are well within standard refrigeration plant tolerances) in order to address a hard-to-treat sector of industrial heat decarbonisation. This is then a precursor to the development of a future experimental system.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Clearly defined research proposal detailing background, research questions, aims and methodology

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living