Cranfield University
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PhD in CFD-Informed FEA for Thermal Control in Wire-Arc Directed Energy Deposition Cranfield University in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
This position is self-funded. The cost of running experiments and accessing research facilities will be supported by the Welding and Additive Manufacturing Centre.
Deadline
Nov 18, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
Cranfield University

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About this position
PhD opportunity at Cranfield University in the Welding and Additive Manufacturing Centre (WAMC) on CFD-informed finite element analysis for thermal control in wire-arc directed energy deposition.
This project sits at the intersection of computational fluid dynamics, finite element analysis, additive manufacturing, heat transfer, arc physics, and materials engineering. The research aims to improve modelling of the temperature field in wire-arc directed energy deposition (WA-DED), a large-scale metal additive manufacturing process that uses wire feedstock and an electric arc to build parts layer by layer.
The work will develop a CFD model of arc physics, integrate process-dependent transferred energy distributions into an improved FEA heat source model, and create an FEA-based method to approximate liquid metal convection effects in molten pools. The student will also design and conduct instrumented WA-DED experiments to validate the models and apply the approach to representative industrial geometries.
The project is aligned with industrially relevant large-scale additive manufacturing research and offers opportunities to work with industrial partners such as WAAM3D and members of WAAMMat. The student will gain experience in modelling and simulation, calibration and validation experiments, technical writing, presentations, and teamwork.
Funding: This position is self-funded. However, the cost of running experiments and accessing research facilities will be supported by the Welding and Additive Manufacturing Centre.
Eligibility: Applicants should have the equivalent of a first or second-class UK honours degree in a related discipline such as mechanical, manufacturing, or materials engineering. International candidates must meet Cranfield University English language requirements. Prior experience with thermal processes or additive manufacturing is advantageous.
Deadline: 18 November 2026. Location: Cranfield University, United Kingdom.
Funding details
This position is self-funded. The cost of running experiments and accessing research facilities will be supported by the Welding and Additive Manufacturing Centre.
What's required
Applicants should hold the equivalent of a first or second-class UK honours degree in a related discipline such as mechanical, manufacturing or materials engineering. International candidates must meet the English language requirements set by Cranfield University. The project suits candidates with a strong interest in modelling and manufacturing, and a foundational understanding of arc physics, fluid flow, and heat transfer. Previous experience with thermal processes or additive manufacturing is highly advantageous. The successful candidate should be self-motivated, proactive, and have good communication and teamwork skills.
How to apply
Contact Dr Yongle Sun for further information if needed. Eligible applicants should complete the online application form on the Cranfield University PhD vacancy page.
More information can be found here
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