Thesis Work - Assessment of sustainable water-based lubricant for electric drivelines 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 
In our product stream, Electric Propulsion, our skilled engineers create the driveline of the future. Our ambition is to be the world leader in sustainable e-propulsion and within our Agile Release Train (ART), Electric Drive Transmission, this is a critical area to find innovative solutions in.

Within Electric Drive Transmission we are responsible for the complete driveline units consisting of inverter, electric machine, transmission, driveshafts and mounts. With a complete driveline perspective, balance multiple attributes like efficiency, sustainability, cost, quality, safety and durability. We are also responsible for design of the transmission specific components like gears, differentials, housings, clutches and lubrication systems.

Scope
Sustainability belongs at the center of Volvo Cars’ core values, so we must make sure that we are committed in every level. Water based lubricants have been proven to have a great reduction in friction losses and being biologically harmless. Compared to mineral or synthetic oils this is very interesting from a sustainability point of view and is naturally something that we at Volvo Cars must investigate and evaluate.
 

In this study you will identify possibilities and limitations with water-based lubricant(s) and compare the properties with the currently used lubricant. Example of parameters to investigate can be lifecycle carbon footprint, thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, material compatibility, friction losses, gear & bearing protection, etc. More specifically you will perform literature research, investigate tribological mechanisms, demonstrate using computational tribology methods and propose test method and specimens to test performance, efficiency and other potentially needed attributes.

Do you fit the profile
Master studies and mechanical engineering background are required. The ideal candidate will have attended some courses related to transmission, material science, tribology. Interest on sustainability & innovation are also prerequisites for this thesis. You are a good communicator, fluent in English and comfortable with organizing information as you will need to interact and exchange knowledge with multiple partners around your project from concept up to industrialization stage. The candidate is preferred to be on-site to maximize the knowledge exchange.

Duration 
•    Start in January 2022
•    30 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, contact Emil Åberg at emil.aberg@volvocars.com   
 

Who are we?

Everything we do starts with people. Our purpose is to provide freedom to move, in a personal, sustainable and safe way. We are committed to simplifying our customers’ lives by offering better technology solutions that improve their impact on the world and bringing the most advanced mobility innovations to protect them, their loved ones and the people around them. 

Volvo Cars’ continued success is the result of a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive working environment. The people of Volvo Cars are committed to making a difference in our world. Today, we are one of the most well-known and respected car brands, with over 40,000 employees across the globe. We believe in bringing out the best in each other and harnessing the true power of people. At Volvo Cars your career is designed around your talents and aspirations so you can reach your full potential. Join us on a journey of a lifetime as we create safety, autonomous driving and electrification technologies of tomorrow.