Oxygen-Enriched Combustion (OEC) Technology has been considered an attractive option to improve the performance of industrial metal reheating furnaces. Despite their widespread applications in the last decade, the modelling of the OEC processes remains a challenge. Despite the advances in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software tools, their runtime are too great for them to be useful to investigate optimisation of the operation of OEC. Consequently, the project aims to develop a fast furnace model, based on the zone method of radiation analysis, which is able to simulate the influences of OEC on the heat transfer performance in a typical production-scale steel reheating furnace. In particular, the model will be used to investigate the optimal burner position and the level of oxygen-enrichment within the furnace chamber, the impact on furnace flow pattern, the geometry and orientation of heated stock, and the interactions between them. The developed model will allow furnace operator to quickly identify and predict energy saving opportunities from such measures.

Bursary: The successful applicant will register for a full-time MPhil/PhD and receive a bursary of £15k per annum for up to three years (from which fees will be deducted, currently £3900 per annum).

Entry requirements: A minimum of an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) is required. Due to funding restrictions the Studentship is open to Home/EU Applicants only.

How to apply: Please visit the Apply link below to download a copy of our research degree application form.  Please return it marked for the attention of Dr Louise Bright by email to researchoffice@southwales.ac.uk no later than the 31st July 2013.

Alternatively post to:

Dr Louise Bright
Research Office
The Lodge
University of South Wales
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL