Thermal effects are a major source of geometric errors in modern machine tools. Accurate prediction of temperature fields inside machine structures is therefore essential for improving machining accuracy and enabling thermal compensation strategies. However, reliable thermal simulations of complex machine assemblies remain challenging due to the interaction of heat conduction in solids and convective heat transfer with the surrounding air.
Within our research group at ETH Zurich, we are developing computational workflows for predicting temperature fields in machine tools using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and conjugate heat transfer simulations. The goal is to establish a robust simulation pipeline that converts CAD geometries of complex machine assemblies into simulation-ready meshes and enables accurate thermal simulations using open-source tools.
We are currently seeking a motivated intern to support this work at ETH Zurich (Technopark Zurich), starting immediately or by mutual agreement.
Job description - Familiarization with conjugate heat transfer simulations and thermal modeling of machine tools
- Development of a workflow for converting CAD assemblies into CFD-ready meshes
- Implementation of CFD simulations for natural and forced convection using open-source tools (e.g. OpenFOAM)
- Support in experimental temperature measurements on a thermal testbench and machine tools for validation
- Comparison of simulation results with experimental measurements
- Contribution to scientific writing if the results are promising
Profile - You are studying mechanical engineering, physics, computational science or a related engineering discipline
- You have a solid foundation in fluid mechanics, heat transfer, or numerical simulation
- Experience with CFD tools, Python, or meshing software is an advantage but not required
- You demonstrate a structured and independent working style and an interest in applied research
We offer - Training opportunities
- Perspectives for career development
- Support programmes (e.g. mentoring) and networks
- Your (team) culture and team composition
- Working environment and employment conditions
- Your commitment to diversity (e.g. flexible working hours, possibility for part-time work, home office)
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