Master's Thesis: Heat Partition Between Brake Disc and Brake Pads

Construction, Engineering & Trades · Civil & Industrial Engineering · Mechanical Engineering

In short

This master's thesis project, based in Göteborg, Sweden, focuses on improving estimates of heat partition between brake discs and pads. It involves combining brake dynamometer testing, thermal calculations, and finite element modelling, with opportunities to collaborate with Volvo Group and Chalmers.

Responsibilities

Analyse brake dynamometer measurements, including brake torque, speed, clamping force and temperature.
Investigate how temperature-dependent friction behaviour affects the clamping force needed to achieve a target brake torque.
Develop thermal calculations and a transient model of heat transfer between the disc and pads.
Use temperature-dependent material properties, such as thermal conductivity, and calibrate them if needed.
Build and assess a finite element model of the brake system or relevant components.
Compare model results with test data and evaluate uncertainty and sensitivity to key assumptions.
Summarise findings and present recommendations for test methods and modelling.

Requirements

Pursuing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, engineering physics, vehicle engineering or a related field.
Solid understanding of heat transfer and thermal calculations.
Comfortable analysing test data and interpreting experimental measurements.
Knowledge of the finite element method (FEM).
Work methodically, communicate results clearly and take ownership of technical challenges.

Desired Qualifications

Experience with Abaqus, preferably thermal analysis.
Experience with Python for data processing and analysis.
Knowledge of braking systems, friction materials or brake dynamometer testing.
Experience with material characterisation or temperature-dependent material data.

Benefits

Deepen knowledge of the interaction between friction, temperature and heat transfer in a braking system.
Opportunity to combine test data, thermal calculations and FEM modelling to address a practical engineering challenge.
Contribute recommendations for future tests and models.

Skills

Thermal CalculationsFinite Element MethodAbaqusPython

#transport#sustainability#heat transfer#finite element modelling#brake systems#mechanical engineering#engineering physics#vehicle engineering#data analysis#thermal calculations#fem

About Volvo Group

The Volvo Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines. The Group also provides complete solutions for financing and service. The Volvo Group, with its headquarters in Gothenburg, employs about 100,000 people, has production facilities in 18 countries and sells its products in more than 190 markets.\n\n

See all open jobs at Volvo Group Read more about Volvo Group Website