Master Thesis: Thermodynamic modelling and experimental study on brass allo

The research institute Swerim provides applied research within mining engineering, process metallurgy and materials and manufacturing engineering, mainly for the mining, steel and metals industry. Swerim has 190 co-workers in two locations in Sweden - Luleå and Stockholm.

Project description:

Lead is an important alloying element for brass to provide with a better castability, cuttability and surface finish. However, the EU directives on lead and lead release to drinking water imply that the current brass alloys which contain 2-3 % lead may not be accepted. Therefore, the development lead-free alloys is of great importance for brass industries. This master’s project will be performed within a Vinnova project in close collaboration with industry.
 
By using ICME (Integrated Computational Materials Engineering), the lead times for developing new alloys can be greatly shortened. The use of ICME is dependant on good multi component Calphad databases.
 
In order to obtain a better understanding of phase behaviour and transformation during processing of brass alloys and to further assist the design and development of lead-free brass alloys, a well-assessed Calphad description of brass alloys is needed. The aim of this project is to develop the Calphad description of brass alloys and verify it with experimental results.
 
Thesis description
1. Literature review on current Calphad description of brass alloys with focus on removing lead.
2. Experimental study with focus on equilibrium.
3. Optimization and verification of the current Calphad description.
 
Location and time
The thesis work will be performed at Swerim in Kista with a proposed start in January 2023.
 
Performing master thesis work at Swerim will give you the experience of working as a researcher in a stimulating environment with modern laboratories, in a team with skilled researchers developing tomorrow’s technologies for industry. You will have the possibility to meet and connect with industrial partners and to understand their needs and interest. Swerim rewards the student with 50 000 SEK for an approved master thesis (30 hp).
 
Contact
Bonnie Hagen, maganager Alloy development group
Bonnie.hagen@swerim.se