Thesis Work - HV Battery Thermal Interface 3D CFD Modelling i Göteborg

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars

Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. All thesis projects are arranged in business critical areas and therefore you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one! 

Background
Lithium-ion cells used in a battery pack have a narrow range of optimum working temperature. To keep cells within this range a very precise cooling system needs to be developed. Majority of battery cooling assessment is done using computation fluid dynamics and conjugate heat transfer methods to shorten development cost and time. 

One of the main uncertainties in the CAE models is the heat transfer in the contact points between the many different parts in a battery pack. Whereas the accuracy of the model in general is controlled to a percent-range, accuracy of heat transfer in contact interfaces can sometimes be on order of magnitude level. To enhance accuracy and increase understanding of heat transfer between cells and cooling media an investigation into thermal contacts between different layers of isolation is needed. 

The goal of this project is to test, develop and evaluate thermal interface models between different layers of battery isolation. This will be done using data both from scientific literature and from in house testing performed at Volvo Cars.

Scope
As a Master thesis student you will be working on development of interface thermal resistance models for usage in battery conjugate heat transfer models. You will have the opportunity to cooperate with colleagues within the traction battery ART, other engineers within VCC as well as suppliers of cells and modules. You will be part of a team where everyone is included and collaborates well.

In the Master thesis you will be working on creating empirically based thermal interface models for different material and part contacts. Focus will be on thermal layers between cell and cooling media, but the project will also involve investigating other interfaces in the battery. Implementation will be done in StarCCM+ software.

In the thesis you will:
•    Perform literature study on available thermal interface models
•    Define and perform thermal resistance experiments on different battery thermal layers
•    Apply model in StarCCM+ software for thermal resistance interfaces
•    Validate said models with testing data.

Profile
We are looking for students pursuing a Master of Science degree in applied mechanics, applied physics, automotive engineering, or similar, to qualify. A genuine interest and curiosity in the subject matter and excellent analytical and communication skills, both in oral and written English, are needed. The ideal candidate has a background in CFD/CHT analysis work preferably by modelling with STARCCM+. Further, you have a big interest in battery electric vehicles.

Duration 
•    Start in January 2022
•    30 points ECTS (academic credits) if in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University 
•    1 or 2 students

How to learn more and apply 
Selection will be ongoing during the application period, so do not hesitate to send in your application. Attach your Cv and personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials. Apply as soon as possible but no later than October 31st. Please note that applications via email will not be accepted. 

For questions about the thesis work please contact Marie-Louise Holmer at marie-louise.holmer@volvocars.com
 

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