Master Thesis - Finite element simulations of the induction hardening process for crankshafts

Transport is at the core of modern society. Imagine using your expertise to shape sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions for the future. If you seek to make a difference on a global scale, working with next-gen technologies and the sharpest collaborative teams, then we could be a perfect match.

MSc Thesis proposal at Volvo Group (30 ECTS credits, 20 weeks, 1-2 students)
Estimation of tri-axial residual stress states from induction hardening of a crankshaft using finite element simulations, including geometry-dependent meta-model generation

In a truck the crankshaft is the key component and the durability of said component is important to ensure the quality of the engine and the truck as a whole. In order to achieve the desired durability of the crankshaft, journals and radii are hardened. This procedure involves phase transitions in the material, close to the surface, resulting in a martensite layer (hardened region) and a transition zone to the unhardened material at the core.

The hardening leads to an increase in hardness as well as compressive stresses at the hardened region, both of which results in an increased local fatigue strength. In the industry the induction process and subsequent quenching is in large based on experience and it has in general not been extensively simulated. It is of interest to correlate simulations with measurements to gain knowledge as well as estimating the properties of the hardened region for use in fatigue models.

The hardening is a multi-physics problem including thermo-dynamics, structural mechanics and austenite decomposition (phase transitions). These can be simulated jointly using FEA software Comsol Multiphysics.

Your profile:
•    Knowledge in Finite Element Method / PDE is required and some knowledge related to structural mechanics, thermo-dynamics and metal phase transitions is preferred. 
•    Knowledge in some scripting language, preferably Python or Java (Comsol API). Experience using Linux/bash is a plus.
•    Interest in solving problems and creating virtual models to mimic reality

The thesis project is intended for 1-2 students
The Master of Science Thesis work will be performed on site at Volvo Group Trucks Technology, (Gothenburg, Sweden)

Industry supervisors: Staffan Häglund and Martin Svensson Volvo GTT
University supervisors: TBD

Application: Please apply to this position no later than the 1st of November, note that the position may be filled earlier. 

About us
The Volvo Group drives prosperity through transport solutions, offering trucks, buses, construction equipment, power solutions for marine and industrial applications, financing and services that increase our customers’ uptime and productivity. Founded in 1927, the Volvo Group is committed to shaping the future landscape of sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions. Countless career opportunities are offered across the group’s leading brands and entities that share a culture of Trust, Passion, High Performance, Change and Customer Success. 
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Volvo Group Trucks Technology provides Volvo Group Trucks and Business Area's with state-of-the-art research, cutting-edge engineering, product planning and purchasing services, as well as aftermarket product support. With Volvo Group Trucks Technology you will be part of a global and diverse team of highly skilled professionals who work with passion, trust each other and embrace change to stay ahead. We make our customers win.

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Who we are and what we believe in 
We are committed to shaping the future landscape of efficient, safe, and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents across the group’s leading brands and entities.

Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group. Every day, you will be working with some of the sharpest and most creative brains in our field to be able to leave our society in better shape for the next generation. ​We are passionate about what we do, and we thrive on teamwork. ​We are almost 100,000 people united around the world by a culture of care, inclusiveness, and empowerment. 

Group Trucks Technology are seeking talents to help design sustainable transportation solutions for the future. As part of our team, you’ll help us by engineering exciting next-gen technologies and contribute to projects that determine new, sustainable solutions. Bring your love of developing systems, working collaboratively, and your advanced skills to a place where you can make an impact. Join our design shift that leaves society in good shape for the next generation.