Full-time study

4 years

doc. Ing. Pavel Rudolf, Ph.D.

Chairman :
doc. Ing. Pavel Rudolf, Ph.D.
Councillor internal :
prof. Ing. Jiří Pospíšil, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Jan Jedelský, Ph.D.
doc. Ing. Jaroslav Katolický, Ph.D.
prof. Ing. Zdeněk Jegla, Ph.D.
Councillor external :
Ing. Milan Kořista, Ph.D.

The aim of the doctoral study in the suggested programme is:
• Training of creative highly educated workers in the field of energy engineering and closely related engineering fields, who will be prepared to work in research and development in industrial companies, research institutes and organizations in our country and abroad.
• To enable the doctoral student to develop talent for creative activities and further development of a scientific or engineering personality. To ensure the development of his ability to process scientific knowledge in the field of study and related fields.
• Graduates will be able to do independent scientific work, especially in the field of applied but also basic research.
• The doctoral student is guided not only to gain knowledge in the field studied, but also to its further development.
• The focus of the study is primarily on basic and applied research in the following areas: design, development and operation of energy and fluid machines and equipment, combustion, environmental engineering, process engineering, fluid mechanics, thermomechanics.
• The graduate has a very good knowledge of field theory and modern approaches in the field of computational and experimental modeling.
• The graduate has skills and abilities in the field of publishing and sharing R&D results in Czech and especially English.

• The profile of the graduate corresponds to the current state of scientific knowledge in the field of energy engineering and allows him to further develop research in the field.
• The graduate is a creative personality capable of independent and team scientific work, has sufficient skills for the preparation, implementation and management of R&D projects.
• The graduate is able to transfer results between basic and applied research and collaborate in multidisciplinary international scientific teams.
• During the study, the doctoral student will gain broad knowledge and skills in the field of fluid flow, heat transfer, design and operation of energy machines, equipment and systems.
• It is assumed that graduates will find employment as R&D workers in academic research organizations or in research institutes and departments of applied research of industrial enterprises in the Czech Republic and abroad, in ordinary and senior positions.

The graduate of the doctoral study programme in Energy Engineering will be prepared for independent and team R&D work in the academic environment, research organizations or research departments of industrial companies in the field of energy, both domestic and foreign.
The graduate will have a comprehensive view of current challenges and problems in the field of energy and will be able to respond by analysing the issue, design of appropriate models or technical measures and equipment. Therefore, they will be a suitable candidate not only for positions in the field of R&D, but also in public administration, consulting companies or managerial positions of companies focusing on energy.

See applicable regulations, DEAN’S GUIDELINE Rules for the organization of studies at FME (supplement to BUT Study and Examination Rules)

The rules and conditions of study programmes are determined by:
BUT STUDY AND EXAMINATION RULES
BUT STUDY PROGRAMME STANDARDS,
STUDY AND EXAMINATION RULES of Brno University of Technology (USING "ECTS"),
DEAN’S GUIDELINE Rules for the organization of studies at FME (supplement to BUT Study and Examination Rules)
DEAN´S GUIDELINE Rules of Procedure of Doctoral Board of FME Study Programmes
Students in doctoral programmes do not follow the credit system. The grades “Passed” and “Failed” are used to grade examinations, doctoral state examination is graded “Passed” or “Failed”.

Brno University of Technology acknowledges the need for equal access to higher education. There is no direct or indirect discrimination during the admission procedure or the study period. Students with specific educational needs (learning disabilities, physical and sensory handicap, chronic somatic diseases, autism spectrum disorders, impaired communication abilities, mental illness) can find help and counselling at Lifelong Learning Institute of Brno University of Technology. This issue is dealt with in detail in Rector's Guideline No. 11/2017 "Applicants and Students with Specific Needs at BUT". Furthermore, in Rector's Guideline No 71/2017 "Accommodation and Social Scholarship“ students can find information on a system of social scholarships.

The newly proposed doctoral study programme in Energy Engineering is being created as a new one within the institutional accreditation of the field of education "Energy". It follows on from the bachelor's degree in the specializations of the bachelor's study programme in Energy and the subsequent master's degree programmes in Energy and Thermofluid Engineering and Process Engineering. It is an education combining solid theoretical foundations in applied mechanics, design of power machines, design and operation of power systems, knowledge and skills in computational and experimental modelling in the field of power engineering and applied fluid mechanics and thermomechanics.
In the case of applicants from other faculties or universities, it is necessary that they master the above-mentioned disciplines at the level taught in these programmes.

1. Active control of flow with strong vortical structures

   In the off-design operating modes of turbomachinery, strong vortical structures occur (e.g. vortex rope in the hydarulic turbine inlet, inlet recirculation at the pump inlet) which deteriorate the operating parameters (lower efficiency, instability of characteristic curve, cavitation, pressure pulsation, noise, etc.). One promising option for suppression is the use of active control based on water injection. The aim of this dissertation is to investigate these possibilities using both computational simulations and experimental modelling.

   Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

2. Adhesive forces and deagglomeration of fibrous aerosol particles

   The interaction between fibrous particles, their agglomeration, and the mechanisms for their redispersion are applicable in many fields. Significant potential exists, for example, in the area of drug carriers and deagglomeration in inhalers. This work is interdisciplinary in nature and requires combining knowledge from mechanical engineering, chemistry, mathematics, biology, and pharmacy. The goal is to develop precise models for calculating fiber interactions, quantifying and modeling adhesion forces and deagglomeration processes. Collaboration with foreign institutions, such as the University of Delaware, the Centre for Energy Research Budapest, and others, is anticipated.

   Tutor: Lízal František, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

3. Analysis and mathematical description of a vortex ring filament behavior and movement.

   Toroidal vortexes or vortex rings are one of the very stable forms of vortex filaments. Vortex rings appear very often in fluid flows, but they are not visible. There is a lot of experiments in the web which visualize vortex rings and show their interesting behavior. The aim of this thesis will be to find a mathematical or numerical solution of vortex ring movement in fluids. If it is possible, then the mutual interaction of two vortex rings will be solved.

   Tutor: Štigler Jaroslav, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

4. Analysis of water vapour condensation from multicomponent heterogeneous mixtures and its application for process efficiency improvement

   The condensation of steam in flue gases or similar gases will be dealt with in the dissertation. The condensation process is currently very perspective in the energy sector and needs to be properly addressed. The thesis is computational and experimental and is carried out in the framework of an R&D project with an industrial partner.

   Tutor: Baláš Marek, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

5. Cavitation erosion prediction

   Cavitation erosion is a negative manifestation of the collapse of cavitation bubbles on the surface of e.g. hydraulic machine blades (pumps, water turbines). In addition to experimental research on cavitation erosion, it is important to be able to predict the intensity of cavitation wear at the machine design stage using computational modelling. The aim of this dissertation is research leading to the development of a cavitation model based on post-processing of CFD modelling data and experimental validation of the model.

   Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

6. Complex 3D-printed structures for heat transfer intensification: Modelling and optimization

   Efficient heat transfer and optimal design of heat exchangers are among important areas related to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of a wide range of devices, in which heat transfer intensification is required. In the past, technologies for the design and manufacturing of heat exchangers were limited to conventional (subtracting) methods. However, in the last years, additive manufacturing and 3D printing (including metallic materials) have experienced huge development and advancement. These new fabrication methods open entirely new possibilities for the production of heat transfer structures with surfaces having a very complicated topology for maximization of the heat transfer area (e.g. the use of gyroids). The research project will therefore aim at the development of computational models for simulations of the thermal behaviour of complex structures for heat transfer intensification. The research will also include the use of these models for the optimization of the structures. In this respect, the utilization of soft computing methods is expected (e.g. a nature-inspired genetic algorithm, or particle swarm optimization). According to recently published studies, these methods seem to have great potential to efficiently solve such kinds of problems. The research topic is a part of a currently solved project MEBioSys (a project within the call Johannes Amos Comenius Programme - Excellent research) and a project funded by the Czech Science Foundation. As a part of the study, it is expected that the student will actively participate in international scientific conferences abroad and undertake an internship (stay) at a foreign university. These activities represent a significant opportunity for professional networking and acquiring new knowledge and skills. Essential tools and equipment for advanced research will be available to the student, including access to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, high-performance computing (HPC) systems, experimental facilities and equipment. The student is also expected to actively participate in experimental investigations related to the research (testing of 3D printed heat transfer structures and heat exchangers, acquisition of data for validation of models).

   Tutor: Klimeš Lubomír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

7. Cryogenic gas separation and capture

   The doctoral studies will focus on computational and experimental research in the field of very low temperatures. The aim of the thesis will be to design a technology, especially an exchanger, for subcooling gases to the condensation temperature, i.e. to temperatures around -200 °C. The work is linked to a project with an industrial partner.

   Tutor: Baláš Marek, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

8. Effect of surface structure on boundary layer properties, cavitation inception and cavitation erosion

   The aim of the dissertation is to investigate the influence of differently shaped and differently spaced structures on the surface of a hydraulic profile on its hydraulic and cavitation characteristics. The work will be carried out first using computational simulations based on hybrid approaches to turbulence modelling, followed by experimental validation in the fluid engineering department's cavitation tunnel. Applications can be found in hydraulic machine blades or on the functional surfaces of various hydraulic devices (e.g. valves).

   Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

9. Effect of the electric field on cavitation

   The effect of electric field on cavitation is a very little studied topic, but with great potential (influence on surface tension, influence on collapse of cavitation bubbles, production of chemical radicals, etc.). The aim of this dissertation will be to study the influence of the electric field first in a simple experiment and later on a mini-cavitation nozzle.

   Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

10. Effect of the sealing gap on the operation of the hydraulic machine

    The sealing gap is the space between the rotor and the stator separating fluid of different pressures. The design of the sealing gap is closely related to the efficiency of the machine and the dynamics of the rotor. The aim of the PhD study will be to model the sealing gap and optimize the sealing gap with respect to the efficiency and rotor dynamics. Another objective of the thesis will be the diagnosis of sealing gap in terms of their failures, where we can encounter an increase in roughness in the sealing gap area due to impurities in the fluid or due to the loosening of the sealing ring.

    Tutor: Habán Vladimír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

11. Emissions from small heat sources, particle capt

    The topic focuses on fireplaces, wood stoves and automatic pellet boilers, which are subject to increasingly stringent emission and efficiency requirements. The focus of the work will be on the development of heating systems to reduce emissions. Another area will be the development of particulate capture systems for these sources and their integration into the boiler. We will be looking at condensation, wet scrubbing, filtration and electrostatic precipitation. The work is experimental. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

    Tutor: Baláš Marek, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

12. Energy harvesting from flowing water

    The aim is research focused on harvesting small amounts of energy from flowing water based on vortex vibrations or even cavitation effects. The research will be focused both computationally (CFD modelling) and experimentally in the hydraulic machines laboratory of the fluid engineering department. The activities will be supported by the international Horizon Europe H-HOPE project.

    Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

13. Characteristics of dynamic vapor layer development during the cooling of hot steel surfaces

    This project deals with the experimental study of vapor layer development during the interaction of water flows on moving hot surface. Laminar cooling is tricky due to the existence of various boiling regimes. The lowest cooling intensity is in film boiling, where the water is isolated from the surface by a layer of steam. Layer thickness decreases as the surface temperature decreases until the layer is broken and rapid increase in cooling intensity follows (transient boiling). The rewetting temperature is dependent on the dynamics of the water flow on the surface. It is higher in the region under the water stream than between. This leads to local overcooling and undesirable heterogeneity in material properties. The water streams from the surrounding jets interact in the areas between the streams and influence the heat transfer mechanism. Articles deal with laminar cooling, mainly for cooling on a stationary surface, which is different to real-life applications. The heat transfer and fluid flow laboratory is equipped to study steam layers on surfaces through experimental research and simulations.

    Tutor: Hnízdil Milan, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

14. Charging infrastructure for electric vehicles: Machine learning and user behaviour analysis for optimization and predictive maintenance

    The European Green Deal is currently a highly discussed topic, aiming at a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This strategy also includes a transformation of the transportation sector: a shift from fossil-fuelled combustion engines to electric vehicles (EVs). However, the growing number of electric vehicles poses many challenges that need to be addressed. One of them is the charging of EVs, as the existing electricity grid and infrastructure do not have the capacity to provide simultaneous charging of a large number of EVs. The aim of the research will be the development of computational tools for the optimization of the EV charging infrastructure (number of charging stations, their location, charging capacity, etc.), the prediction of its maintenance, and the analysis and prediction of user (EV driver) behaviour for the efficient operation and use of the charging infrastructure. For this purpose, the use of machine learning, artificial intelligence and predictive modelling tools is envisaged. The research topic is a part of the currently solved project ITEM from the project call Johannes Amos Comenius Programme - Intersection Cooperation. As a part of the study, it is expected that the student will actively participate in international scientific conferences abroad and undertake an internship (stay) at a foreign university. These activities represent a significant opportunity for professional networking and acquiring new knowledge and skills. Essential tools and equipment for advanced research will be available to the student, including access to high-performance computing (HPC) systems, simulation software, and other equipment.

    Tutor: Klimeš Lubomír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

15. Impact of variability of renewable energy sources on electric vehicle charging infrastructure

    The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into the power grid supplying electricity to the charging infrastructure of battery electric vehicles (BEV) presents several challenges. The doctoral topic aims at the investigation of the impact of renewable energy variability on the BEV charging infrastructure and energy storage requirements. Renewable energy sources are inherently variable and intermittent, leading to fluctuations in energy supply. These fluctuations affect the operation of the BEV charging infrastructure necessitating advanced energy management strategies and energy storage.

    Tutor: Charvát Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

16. Instabilities arising during flow around solid body

    Excitation and instabilities occur when a fluid flows around a solid body. Probably the most well-known excitation is from karman vortices, or instabilities such as stream breaking, fluttering or galloping on the body. The aim of this dissertation will be to model these phenomena, conduct experimental investigations and propose measures to prevent these instabilities or to exploit these oscillations for energy gain.

    Tutor: Habán Vladimír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

17. Non-exhaust particles generated when driving a car

    The thesis is focused on the study of the emission of non-exhaust particles generated during the driving of cars. The work will be focused in significant part experimentally in order to identify the morphology, concentration and emission factor of non-exhaust particles. The theoretical part will be complemented by detailed modelling of the dispersion of the generated particles and an evaluation of the possibilities of their capture.

    Tutor: Pospíšil Jiří, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

18. Preparation and conditioning of fuels for lower emissions

    The release of pollutants from combustion is under increasing scrutiny. Preparing good quality fuel is one way to achieve low emissions, especially of particulate matter. The work will focus on mechanical modifications of biomass-based fuels to optimize combustion and reduce particulate matter.. The work is experimental and will be carried out as part of a research project.

    Tutor: Baláš Marek, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

19. Research on hydrodynamic cavitation for applications in biotechnology

    Hydrodynamic cavitation, thanks to its mainly mechanical but also chemical effects, can be used in various biotechnological processes (emulsification, disintegration, extraction). The aim of the dissertation will be to investigate the application of hydrodynamic cavitation in the field of wastewater treatment plants, paper or food industry. The research will be based on experimental and computational modelling and will make intensive use of previous extensive experience in cavitation research at the V. Kaplan Department of Fluid Engineering.

    Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

20. Study of additional effects from the liquid in simplified models of hydraulic turbines

    The important parameters in hydraulic machines are additional effects from the liquid. The fluid added mass, stiffness and damping of structures submerged in water are different then in air. Moreover, the complexity increases if the structure is moving (e.g., rotating runner) and is influenced by possible excitation from the flow field (e.g., vortex structures, leakage flow, etc.) or from adjacent geometry. The hydraulic turbines have complex geometry where above mentioned effects are in combination with other effects emphasizing the problematic. Therefore, it is convenient and important to study these additional effects from the liquid on simplified models of such machines. The separate blade profile in free stream, blade cascade in free stream or rotating submerged disc with variable distance from the wall are good test cases. The goal of this thesis is to carry out numerical and experimental analysis on such simplified test cases. In addition, the excitation of simplified structures will be involved in a form of piezoelectric patches to study resonance and modal shapes.

    Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

21. Study of off-design operating conditions of centrifugal pump

    The dissertation will focus on the analysis of the complete, i.e. four-quadrant, characteristics of a centrifugal pump using both computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modelling and hydraulic laboratory experiments. Instabilities associated with different operating modes that cause pressure pulsations, increased vibration and noise will be investigated.

    Tutor: Rudolf Pavel, doc. Ing., Ph.D.

22. Surface structures for intensification of heat transfer

    The work is focused on the investigation of the influence of surface structure on the intensification of heat transfer in selected engineering applications. The focus will be on both technologically simpler modifications (sandblasting, radneling, mini-ribs) and more advanced surface modifications based on topological optimization. The actual work will include a significant proportion of experimental measurements, as well as computational simulations and analytical solutions of related problems.

    Tutor: Pospíšil Jiří, prof. Ing., Ph.D.

23. The use of acoustic emission in the diagnosis of fluid machinery

    The operation of a fluid machine can be monitored using accoustic signals, cavitation on the blades or in the interior of a turbine or pump can be observed. The aim of the PhD thesis will be to determine the potential of acoustics in monitoring fluid machinery, in terms of monitoring cavitation and selected machine damage such as material loss on blades, bearing wear or cracks. The work should be based on neural networks and artificial intelligence in processing the measured data.

    Tutor: Habán Vladimír, doc. Ing., Ph.D.