College of Science & Engineering

    Prof. Margaret Lucas - Professor of Ultrasonics

    Dr Phil Harrison - Systems Power & Energy

    Dr Euan Wielewski - Systems Power & Energy 

Ultrasonics research for industry

We have strong expertise in vibration analysis in the field of power ultrasonics. This activity is aimed at the design of novel high power ultrasonic tools and devices that offer advantages over conventional tooling for industry. We have worked with many companies on medical, food processing, space and metals applications focusing on forming of metals and soft solids, and joining of similar and dissimilar materials.

Research currently focuses on three key integrating activities: characterising the linear and nonlinear vibration responses of ultrasonic devices; modelling the interaction between the ultrasonic device and the medium it interacts with; and design and evaluation of ultrasonic devices.

Key contact: Prof Margaret Lucas

Sheet Forming of Advanced Composite Structures

Our research activity in modelling and manufacture of advanced composites is aimed at developing novel computational tools to accurately model the large deformation forming mechanics of engineering fabrics and pre-impregnated composites (both thermosetting and thermoplastic) for the press-forming manufacture process. We are able to predict fibre directions and defects such as wrinkles and buckles during multi-layer and multi-step forming of extremely complex parts (reducing the number of trial and error iterations in achieving the best manufacuting conditions). For prepregs, our multi-scale modelling approach allows us to predict macro-scale forming behaviour from the matrix polymer rheology and the composite’s fibre volume fraction, drastically reducing the number of tests required to characterise the material (leading to much lower costs). In tandem with the modelling work, novel experimental characterisation techniques have been developed to allow us to easily identify model parameters, eliminating the need for parameter fitting via inverse modelling (improving accuracy and reducing simulation time and cost). Regularly collaborate with industrial partners in the automotive and aerospace sectors, most recently with Spirit Aerospace. The ultimate aim of this research is to bring computational tools to maturity in order to providing real competitive advantage in terms manufacturing of highly optimised advanced composite products. 

Key contact: Dr Phil Harrison

Understanding Advanced Structural Materials

By understanding the mechanical behaviour of materials at the microscopic scale we are able to provide industry with improved structural materials. Using advanced materials characterisation and simulation tools, capable of capturing the effects of a material's microstructure on its mechanical response we are developing physically-based, predictive modelling tools. These tools are particularly focused on the transport and energy industries.

Key contact: Dr Euan Wielewski