Vibration isolation design for optimum machine reliability

In this project you will use modelling and experimental methods to build an understanding of how vibration and shock mount design can influence machine bearing life.  

In both defence and civilian applications, machines are often installed on soft isolation mounts to reduce transmission of self-generated vibration to the supporting structure. These mounts must also be sufficiently stiff to support the weight of the machine. Forces on bearings and other machine elements, and hence their wear, are estimated based on the assumption that gravitational forces are equally distributed which is not always guaranteed, particularly in marine environments where significant motion of the supporting structure occurs. This poses a significant challenge to the Condition Based monitoring (CBM) industry since current installation standards are not applicable. Premature bearing wear can result, causing costly and disruptive unscheduled maintenance. 

This project will investigate the effect of mounting arrangements on the degradation of bearings for machines with variable orientation. The main objectives are: 

• To develop theoretical and numerical models to predict the influence of isolation mounts on bearing life 

• To undertake practical measurements on running machines to validate modelling activities 

• To identify installation principles for low bearing wear 

• To embody recommendations for best practice in new installation guidance 

For informal enquiries please get in touch with Professor Tim Waters – [email protected]  

Funding for this project is offered by the Centre for Doctoral Training in Complex Integrated Systems for Defence & Security (CISDnS), which will recruit motivated and inquisitive candidates across the themes of Digital, Physical and Biological systems to provide a diverse and interconnected cohort training environment. You can read more about the Centre and the training programme at https://cisdns-cdt.ac.uk/  

To discuss aspect related to the CISDnS CDT please contact the directorate – [email protected]  

This PhD studentship is open only to UK applicants. You should preferably have or be on target to achieve a first class degree in a mechanically based engineering subject. You should have strong analytical skills, be competent in coding, e.g. in Matlab or Python, and have some prior experience of designing experiments. 

CISDnS is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity. 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 or are transitioning into a new role. 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. 

Closing date: 5th May 2025

Entry requirements: A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). Following the diversity objectives of CISDnS, we will accept many forms of equivalent prior learning.

Funding: Full-time studentships will cover UK tuition fees and an enhanced tax-free stipend of approx. £24,700 per year for 4 years, along with a substantial budget for research, travel, and centre activities.  

How to apply

Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk).  

Select Full-time or Part-time, programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “iPhD Complex Integrated Systems in Defence & Security (Full-Time)” 

In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Prof Tim Waters.

Applications should include:

curriculum vitae giving details of your academic record and stating your research interests

name two current academic referees together with an institutional email addresses in the Reference section of the application form. On submission of your online application your referees will be automatically emailed requesting they send a reference to us directly by email.

your academic transcript and degree certificate (translated if not in English) – if you have completed both a BSc & an MSc, we require both.

include a short statement of your research interests in the Personal Statement section of the application form.