Thesis work: Influence of propeller pressure pulsations on hull vibrations and structure-borne noise
Göteborg, SE, 417 15
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About us
Volvo Penta is a world-leading supplier of engines and complete power systems for marine and industrial applications. Volvo Penta has developed a global leadership and one of the industry’s strongest brands.
At Volvo Penta the CAE department work with simulation models (FEA, MBD, CFD, 1D, etc.) in close cooperation with the NVH department which work with measurements (vibration, strain, sound, etc.) in test environment (especially at the Volvo Penta Marine Test Center) and in the field.
Background:
Propellers are a dominant source of onboard noise and vibration. A major contribution comes from the pressure pulsations generated as the loaded, often cavitating, propeller blades pass the hull. These fluctuating pressures excite the hull plating and radiate as structure-borne noise.
This is one of two main transfer paths for propeller-induced vibration:
Fluid-borne: pressure pulsations and cavitation acting on the hull surface.
Structure-borne: forces transmitted through the shaft line and gearbox into the mounting points.
It is currently unclear which path dominates, and there is no established method for accounting for the propeller pressure-pulsation contribution.
Thesis work objective:
Investigate how propeller pressure pulsations transfer into the boat and contribute to hull vibration and structure-borne noise, compared with the gearbox path.
The work focuses on structural dynamics, vibrations and acoustics. CFD data is provided by Volvo Penta specialists and used as input.
Activities
Qualifications and Personal Profile:
You should have knowledge of
Preferred masters program:
Applied Mechanics
Thesis Level: Master (30 ECTS points)
Language: Swedish or English
Starting date: January 2027
Number of students: 1-2 students
Last application date: 30 October 2027
Examiner proposal: if available
Entity: AB Volvo Penta, Gothenburg, Sweden
Contact:
Jakob Alm, Simulation Engineer, jakob.alm@volvo.com
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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.
Volvo Penta, a world-leading supplier of engines and complete drive systems for marine and industrial applications, you will be part of a global and diverse team of highly skilled professionals who works with passion, trust each other and embraces change to stay ahead. We make our customers win.