Master Thesis - Comprehensive investigation of suitable material models for high temperature applications

About the Role

Location
Sweden
Oestergoetlands laen
Finspang
Company
Siemens Energy AB
Organization
Gas Services
Business Unit
Distributed
Full / Part time
Full-time
Experience Level
Student (Not Yet Graduated)

A Snapshot of Your Day

This master thesis focuses on identifying, calibrating, and validating material models suitable for predicting the high-temperature response of combustor chamber components. Combustor hardware operates under severe thermo-mechanical cycles, steep thermal gradients, and chemically aggressive environments. The selected models must capture time-dependent inelasticity (creep/viscoplasticity), cyclic plasticity (ratcheting, kinematic/isotropic hardening), and damage mechanisms relevant to thermo-mechanical fatigue (TMF). The outcome will be a decision framework and model parameters ready for finite element (FE) simulations of engine-representative load cases.


How You’ll Make an Impact

  • Perform a comprehensive literature review of high-temperature constitutive models for nickel-based superalloys and heat-resistant steels used in combustor chambers (e.g., Chaboche viscoplasticity, Armstrong-Frederick, Ohno-Wang and creep laws such as Norton-Bailey).

  • Define model selection criteria (predictive accuracy, numerical robustness, parameter identifiability, computational cost) tailored to combustor duty cycles and design workflows.

  • Assemble and curate material datasets (monotonic, cyclic, dwell, creep, and TMF tests) and establish parameter identification procedures using optimization techniques.

  • Implement and test candidate models in an FE environment (e.g., user subroutines such as UMAT/VUMAT or built-in material cards) and validate against benchmark tests and engine-representative thermal-mechanical load cases.

  • Quantify model sensitivity and uncertainty; provide recommendations for design allowable safety factors, and use-cases (e.g., steady vs. transient, smooth vs. notched geometries).

  • Deliver a selection guide with calibrated parameter sets and modelling workflows to support combustor durability assessments.


What You Bring

  • Currently enrolled in a master's program in mechanical engineering, materials science, aerospace engineering, or a related field.

  • Solid understanding of solid mechanics and constitutive modelling (elastic-plasticity, creep/viscoplasticity, cyclic plasticity).

  • Experience with finite element analysis (e.g., Abaqus/Ansys) and scripting for data reduction/parameter fitting (e.g., Python, MATLAB).

  • Familiarity with high-temperature materials (e.g., Ni-based superalloys) and thermo-mechanical fatigue concepts is a plus.

  • Strong analytical mindset, attention to detail, and clear technical communication skills.


About the Team

In our team (Computer Aided Engineering of Combustion Systems) we have many talented and highly educated engineers with different backgrounds and responsibilities. We strive to support each other and build a strong technical knowledge within the team. We collaborate closely with the turbine and compressor MI department, and our team includes specialists in the field who are available to provide support.

Our Gas Services division offers Low-emission power generation through service and decarbonization. Zero or low emission power generation and all gas turbines under one roof, steam turbines and generators. Decarbonization opportunities through service offerings, modernization, and digitalization of the fleet.


Who is Siemens Energy?

At Siemens Energy, we are more than just an energy technology company. With ~100,000 dedicated employees in more than 90 countries, we develop the energy systems of the future, ensuring that the growing energy demand of the global community is met reliably and sustainably. The technologies created in our research departments and factories drive the energy transition and provide the base for one sixth of the world's electricity generation. 

Our global team is committed to making sustainable, reliable, and affordable energy a reality by pushing the boundaries of what is possible. We uphold a 150-year legacy of innovation that encourages our search for people who will support our focus on decarbonization, new technologies, and energy transformation. 

Find out how you can make a difference at Siemens Energy: https://www.siemens-energy.com/employeevideo


Our Commitment to Diversity

Lucky for us, we are not all the same. Through diversity, we generate power. We run on inclusion and our combined creative energy is fueled by over 130 nationalities. Siemens Energy celebrates character – no matter what ethnic background, gender, age, religion, identity, or disability. We energize society, all of society, and we do not discriminate based on our differences.


Application

Don’t hesitate – apply via the Apply button, id nr 283723 no later than 2025-11-11.

Ongoing selection is applied, the role might be filled before last application date.


For questions about the role, please contact the supervisor Jordi Loureiro on jordi.loureiro@siemens-energy.com or recruiting manager Emma Moschner on emma.moschner@siemens-energy.com

For questions about the recruitment process please contact the responsible recruiter Ermina Imamovic on ermina.imamovic.ext@siemens-energy.com


We refrain from all contact with staffing and recruitment companies, or advertising brokers.


Location: Finspång


Trade Union Representatives:
Unionen, unionen.finspang.se@siemens-energy.com
Sveriges Ingenjörer & SACO, asi.se@siemens-energy.com
Ledarna, Anders Fors, anders.fors@siemens-energy.com
IF Metall, Mikael Malmgren, mikael.malmgren@siemens-energy.com


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