Installation effect on the noise of small high speed fans

About the project

At the heart of Dyson products, such as vacuum cleaners, hair dryers and hand dryers, is an efficient high-speed fan for providing high flow rates at large pressure. However, like most fans they are also noisy.

This project is predominantly an experimental study into the investigation into the mechanisms of noise generation from this latest generation of high-speed fans. Particular emphasis will be given to ‘installation effects’ on the noise. Compared to their uninstalled levels, their noise is known to increase once installed in the machine. This is because air passing through the fan, after flowing through the machine, becomes disorted and turbulent.

The project will use state-of-the-art measurement techniques. These will characterise noise and flow with the objective of understanding the noise-generating mechanisms, and hence provide solutions for its mitigation. The experiments will take place on a new fan rig designed and built by Dyson at the University of Southampton.

The successful PhD candidate will join the Acoustics group at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR). The ISVR is recognised as one of the world’s leading centres for the investigation of sound and vibration phenomena

The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

Regular interaction with staff at Dyson is anticipated together with visits to the company.

Potential supervisors

• Potential supervisors: Lead supervisor

Entry requirements

An undergraduate UK 2:1 honours degree in mathematics, science or engineering, or its international equivalent.

Strong mathematical skills will be an advantage.

Fees and funding

For UK students, an enhanced stipend of £20,000 tax-free each year for up to 3.5 years.

The studentship will be fully-funded including paid tuition fees (UK rate). We are fortunate that we are able to pay an enhanced tax-free stipend that is significantly greater than the standard rate

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

Applications should include:

• choose programme type (Research), 2022/23, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering
• next page select PhD Engineering & Environment (Full time)
• add name of the supervisor (Professor Phillip Joseph) in section 2
• research proposal
• your cv (resumé)
• 2 reference letters
• degree transcripts to date

Faculty of engineering and physical sciences

Email: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

Lead supervisor

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Professor Phil Joseph, Acoustics Research Group. Email: pfj@isvr.soton.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 9458

Research areas