Bachelor Thesis - Lightweight Bearing Applications

The combination of people with expertise and the energy to drive transformation makes Manufacturing Development (MD) the global enabler for transformation in manufacturing. You will embark on this journey together with colleagues in MD tasked to transform and equip the SKF Group Manufacturing footprint with lean, clean, and digital solutions that bring competitive advantage through improved manufacturing performance.
 
 
Bachelor Thesis
Lightweight bearing applications

Introduction 
We are looking for one student with mechanical engineering background or equivalent with an emphasis on design. It is a pre-requisite to good knowledge in mechanical design and using various modeling and FE-simulation software. 

Purpose 
Additive manufacturing (AM) provides significant design advantages for bearing applications. From enabling complex geometries with help of topology optimization and novel materials to facilitating rapid prototyping and customization, AM paves the way for innovative bearing solutions that enhance performance and efficiency in various industries. Embracing this technology can lead to breakthroughs in design and functionality, ultimately benefiting manufacturers and end-users alike.

The purpose of this master thesis work is to focus on using specific software for redesigning specific bearing application to reduce weight while maintaining or improve the overall performance of the application. The topology optimized design needs to be evaluated and optimized for a specific additive manufacturing technology. The work should address the following research questions:

Impact of Topology Optimization

•     How does topology optimization influence the mechanical performance of additively manufactured bearings compared to traditionally designed bearings?

Design Efficiency

•  How can additive manufacturing techniques be integrated with topology optimization to reduce the weight of bearings while maintaining or improving load-bearing capacity?

Lattice Structures

•  What is the optimal lattice structure for reducing weight and enhancing the mechanical performance of bearings in specific applications?

 
Time frame 
The thesis covers 15 credits/ 10 weeks and begins mid-January 2025.
 
Location  
This project will be performed at the Department of Manufacturing Development at SKF in Gothenburg.
 
Please send your application, including CV, no later than 2024-11-30 via the "Apply now" button. If you have any questions, please contact HR.Support@skf.com.