Multi-physics modelling of bearingless pumps
Not stated
- Location
- Brisbane, Australia, Australia
- Funding
- Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
- Application deadline
- 11 October 2026
About the project
About the Project The transition towards electrified and energy-efficient industrial systems demands new technologies capable of operating at high speed with improved efficiency, reliability, and reduced maintenance. Bearingless pumps represent a promising technology because they eliminate conventional mechanical bearings and shaft seals, thereby reducing frictional losses, wear, and maintenance requirements while enabling fully electrified actuation and control. Research has demonstrated the feasibility of bearingless pumping systems but needs better understanding of their multiphysics interaction. This PhD project will develop advanced physics-based modelling approaches for bearingless pumps, focusing on the strongly coupled interactions between internal fluid flow, electromagnetic suspension forces, and rotor dynamics. The project will investigate stability limits, force generation mechanisms, efficiency losses and thermal interactions to establish improved design methodologies for future industrial applications.