Master Thesis

NKT connects a greener world with high-quality power cable technology and takes centre stage as the world moves towards green energy

Simulation of charge transport dynamics in electrical insulation for HVDC cables

Electrically insulating polymers are important for the ongoing electrification of the society to more sustainable. Solar parks and wind farms are used as renewable energy sources; however, these are often located far from where the energy is needed. To transfer electrical energy long distance, high voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is used, where as high voltage as possible, is preferred in order to limit the losses. 

Increased state-of-the-art understanding of the underlying physical processes is important to push the efficiency, compactness, and reliability to a next level. This put high demands on the insulation material used. Even though HVDC cables can be long, 100-1000 kilometers, the high demands on the material goes down to properties at atomic and electronic structure level. Hence, models for the physics at this length scale become important.

Tasks
In this thesis we will use state of the art simulation methods to study charge transport in polyethylene which is the main insulation in HVDC cables. In particular different charge injection models will be evaluated, where both fundamental models as well as impact of chemical impurities will be investigated. Simulations will be done using the so called bipolar charge transport model. Numerically Finite Element Method (FEM) will be applied using Comsol Multiphysics software.

Your Background
We think you have an education and interest in theoretical physics, electrical engineering, applied mathematics or similar field. You have taken courses in solid state physics or strong interest to learn. An advantage is to have experience in working with FEM simulations in Comsol. 

Contact and application
This thesis will be done at NKT HV Cables AB, Technology Consulting in Västerås, Sweden. The thesis correspond to 30 hp at full speed and is expected to be run from January 2023.

NKT is committed to fostering a diverse organization and a culture where people from different backgrounds can thrive and are inspired to perform at their best. We believe that a diverse organization enables sustainable performance, and that an inclusive and welcoming culture makes for a better place to work.   

Apply with CV and personal letter via the link below, at latest 30th of October 2022.
Tests can occur in our recruitment processes. 

If you have any questions regarding the position, you are very welcome to contact Recruiting Manager, Senior Principal Scientist Mikael Unge, mikael.unge@nkt.com or +46 730 40 30 35. Please note that due to the GDPR regulations we cannot accept any applications via e-mail.

Welcome with your application!