PhD Studentship - Installation effect on the noise of small high speed fans (1265420DA)

Supervisory Team:    Phillip Joseph and Chaitanya Paruchuri

Project description

At the heart of Dysons’s products, such as vacuum cleaners, hair dryers and hand dryers, is an efficient high-speed fan for providing high flow rates at large pressure. However, like most fans they are also noisy. Compared to their noise levels made in simple laboratory conditions, their noise is known to increase once installed in the machine since the air passing through the fan, after flowing through the machine, becomes distorted and turbulent. The precise relationship between the characteristics of the air passing through the fan and its noise radiation is one of the key objectives of the project. 

This project is predominantly an experimental study into the understanding and identification of the mechanisms of noise generation from this latest generation of high-speed fans. Particular emphasis will be given to ‘installation effects’ on the noise. The project will develop and use state-of-the-art measurement techniques for characterising the noise and the flow, understanding the noise generation mechanisms, and hence provide solutions for its mitigation. The experiments will take place on a new fan rig designed and built by Dyson at the University of Southampton.

The successful PhD candidate will join the Acoustics group at the Institute of sound and Vibration Research (ISVR). The ISVR is recognised as one of the world’s leading centres for the investigation of sound and vibration phenomena. Applications are invited from prospective UK candidates with an excellent degree (or an equivalent standard in other qualifications approved by the University) in a relevant mathematics, science or engineering subject. Strong mathematical skills will be an advantage.

The studentship will be fully-funded including paid tuition fees (UK/EU rate). We are fortunate that we are able to pay a tax-free bursary that is significantly greater than the standard rate.  Regular interaction with staff at Dyson is anticipated together with visits to the company. 

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Prof Phillip Joseph Research Group, Email: pfj@isvr.soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 592172

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2020 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: full tuition fees for EU/UK students plus for UK students, an enhanced stipend of £15,285 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years. 

How To Apply

Applications should be made online, please select the academic session 2020-21 “PhD Eng & Env (Full time)” as the programme. Please enter Phil Joseph under the proposed supervisor.

Applications should include: 

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts to date

Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk 

Closing Date: 31 Aug 2020
Post Type: PhD Studentship (Funded)