Master theses / Diploma theses / Compulsory internship

Tray columns are used for thermal separation of multicomponent mixtures in the chemical industry. Owing to increased energy supply from renewable sources a more flexible operation of such apparatuses is already demanded. However, enlarged over- and underload modes are challenging with respect to design. Basically, computational fluid dynamics provide a powerful support by predicting the complex two-phase flow on the tray and its application is hence investigated in a current research project.
For that purpose, a hybrid multiphase flow model was adapted for the present simulation task by implementing local mass and momentum sources to mimic the gas inlets from the tray into the froth zone. Additionally, a pre-processing tool was developed that allows for automatic generation of the computational domain and adjustment of boundary conditions.
Within the frame of a current research project we offer a student internship position for applying the developed multi-phase CFD model. The candidate needs to perform simulations and to evaluate the results by comparison with available experimental data. Special focus is put on the influence of different tray designs and operating conditions.

• studies in chemical/process/energy/mechanical/computational engineering
• substantiated knowledge in the field of CFD, preferably OpenFOAM
• creativity and problem-solving skills
• good written and oral communication skills in English and German

• start: from Oct. 2022
• working in a multi-disciplinary team
• remuneration according to HZDR internal regulations