1 Postdoctoral position in Discrete Element Modelling in Netherlands | Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

Use of the Discrete Element Method (DEM) has been rising within the powder, raw material and bulk material handling industry for analysing and designing material handling systems. A big hurdle for obtaining valuable output is the development of an accurate and validated material model, as this is the most time-consuming and critical factor. Recently, databases of material models have been made available by software suppliers; however, the model characteristics are only available for specific test conditions on the one hand and specific contact models and other software input on the other hand.

One of the challenges is to develop a universal method to calibrate (1) material models and (2) material-equipment interaction models that are valid for or can be adjusted to every imaginable condition present in industrial environments. This project therefore aims at developing a methodology for fast and accurate calibration of material models to be used in industry, which are fit for different equipment types such as feeders, screws, belt conveyors and transfer chutes.

This position is related to several ongoing research projects in the group, such as grab design, biomass handling and wear reduction. This work will focus on calibration of Discrete Element Method software (such as EDEM or Liggghts) with experiments, and on industrial applications as well as on developing scientific methods for fast and accurate calibration of modelled materials. Emphasis is on the interaction between equipment and material.

Requirements

We are looking for applicants with a PhD in the field of mechanical engineering, powder technology, bulk materials handling, or civil engineering. Experience with the Discrete Element Method is required. Experience or affinity with bulk handling systems and transport is highly valued. The applicant should have excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Conditions of employment

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

Organisation

Delft University of Technology (the TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. The TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At the TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. The TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

Department

Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The Transport Engineering and Logistics (TEL) section is part of the Department of Marine and Transport Technology in the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering (3mE) at Delft University of Technology. The focus is on the development, design, construction and operation of transport systems and equipment. Education and research deals with transport-related topics that involve both technological and organisational or logistic issues. This combination of transport technology and logistics is considered one of the strong points of the TEL section.

Over the past several decades, many new transport concepts and systems have been developed. In order to further improve the competitive position of the Netherlands and Europe in a sustainable way, new innovative solutions will be necessary. The need for new and innovative transport systems and concepts is therefore expected to continue and to grow in the coming decades. TEL aims to play its part in these future developments by doing research and by educating the transport professionals of the future. TEL has 10 scientific staff members and a varying number of PhD (±20) and MSc students (±80). TEL has broad experience with the development and design of sea and airport systems and equipment, ranging from baggage handling systems and people movers to container and (biomass) bulk terminals.