Research assignment – R&D – OpenFOAM Algorithm
At VMI, commercial software is used to simulate rubber flow from an extruder. But since there is always a demand for more accurate prediction of velocity and pressure, we would like to explore the possibilities of open-source software due to its flexible and innovative nature. OpenFOAM is an open-source CFD software that has proven to be reliable for this task.
We are looking for a student with affinity for numerical methods/numerical simulations and some basic understanding of fluid mechanics to join our team for a challenging research project focused on developing an algorithm by using OpenFOAM. Are you the person we are looking for? Then continue reading!
This assignment will take place on two departments, R&D Extrusion Cutters and Flex and R&D Rubber Process & Tire Technology. Since this assignment is for two departments, you will also have two internship supervisors. You will work a lot with a Mathematical engineer and a Process specialist.
In this internship, you will work on developing an algorithm by using the open-source software OpenFOAM. You will replicate the results of the currently used commercial software, determine the optimal parameters needed for the software to simulate a realistic extrusion process, and explore the effect of realistic boundary conditions such as the stick-slip model. The following tasks are involved in the assignment:
- Learn about the meshing tools available in OpenFOAM, such as blockMesh and snappyHexMesh;
- Conduct a review study on the equations of motion that describe the fluid;
- Review the numerical methods and solvers implemented in the software;
- Study the material models and initial and boundary conditions;
- Learn about post-processing tools, such as the open-source software Paraview, to visualize the obtained fields (mesh, pressure, velocity, viscosity, and temperature);
- Use other software (e.g. Matlab or Spyder) to create plots and/or videos that help explain the obtained results.
- You are an hbo/wo student in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems Engineering, or similar;
- You have a strong interest in physics and enjoy applying your knowledge in this field;
- If you are a master student, you are currently in the second year of your study. If you are a bachelor student, you are currently in your fourth year of your study;
- You are looking for an internship of 40 hours per week (32 hours will be considered if you are available for at least 5 months) For this internship, it is possible to be working partly at home on the assignment;
- You are available for at least 3 months based on 40 hours per week, 6 or more months is preferred;
- If you have experience with the software Paraview and/or can program in python it is a plus, but not it is not required.
We give you the opportunity to join a cozy team for six months. You will have the opportunity to carry out challenging research in which you can add real value to the organization. For this internship you will receive an internship allowance and a travel allowance.
In addition to our own internship program, you will have the opportunity to participate in a Master Class at Perron038.
These Masterclasses are organized each time by different companies and relate to soft skills, but can for example also be about LinkedIn, project management and job application tips.
VMI is one of the partners at innovation center Perron038 in Zwolle. Various technical companies work together here in the field of Technology and they share knowledge and experiences with each other in an inspiring environment. At the training sessions & Tuesday afternoon drinks at Perron038 you will also meet students from the other companies in the region. Want to know more about Perron038? Read more
With your internship at our company, you make a valuable contribution to our organization. Your input and ideas help us achieve our goals and improve our services.
As an intern, you will bring:
- A fresh perspective and new ideas that help us improve our processes;
- An opportunity to inspire and motivate our employees with your enthusiasm and energy;
- A change to enrich our culture and values with your unique perspective.
Interested?
Have you become interested and do you think you are the student we are looking for?
Then apply immediately!
A screening test may be part of the application procedure.