Testing an experimental setup for the validation of residual stress measurement methods

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding thesis project, the NLR is the perfect place for you. Our projects are at the forefront of aerospace technology, and you will have the opportunity to make a real impact in this field. Join the NLR and be part of a team that is dedicated to advancing aviation and space technology. Apply now and take the first step towards a rewarding career in this field.

About NLR

The Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) is a dynamic and innovative organization that is dedicated to advancing aviation and space technology. At NLR, you will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, as well as the support of a highly qualified team of researchers and engineers. You will also have the opportunity to work on real-world projects and be part of a team that is shaping the future of air and space travel.

The assignment

NLR, a research organization focused on aerospace engineering, is offering a master’s internship opportunity to investigate validation methods for residual stress measurement methods. The aim is to develop NLR's capabilities to measure residual stresses in the surface of structural metals, particularly for laser peening. Laser peening is a process that involves creating compressive stress in the metal's surface to increase its resistance to cracking or corrosion, which improves the lifetime of components. The internship consists of three parts. The first part involves a small literature study to investigate different validation methods that are used for residual stress measurement. The second part involves gaining hands-on experience by developing a test plan and performing experiments on aluminium 7075 using one validation method to apply a prescribed stress into the material. Finally, in the third part, a residual stress measurement is performed to validate the method that is used to apply the prescribed stress. FEM analysis of the application of the prescribed stress is optional to confirm the experimental set-up. The student may have an opportunity to further develop and test a novel validation method for residual stress measurement. Successful development of this method could lead to it being used as a standard benchmark test for the validation of residual stress measurement methods.

Result

The internship can be done in approximately 3 months and is flexible with regards to start dates. It will take place at the NLR location at Voorsterweg 31, 8316 PR Marknesse. Many opportunities regarding places to stay, transport, and working from home can be arranged in discussion. At the end of the internship, the student is expected to deliver a report that includes a small literature study, and an experimental study for the validation of a stress measurement method. The incremental hole drilling method, which is an in-house method, can be used for measuring residual stress in the material.