Thesis Worker - 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.
 

In previous studies, Water-based lubricants have shown excellent cooling performance. This is in addition to the fact that these lubricants have been shown to have a good reduction in friction losses and are biologically harmless. Compared to mineral or synthetic oils this is very interesting from a sustainability, but also efficiency 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 the material compatibility with the components present in the electric driveline, evaluate the friction losses as well as the gears & bearings protection. Efficiency and environmental impact will be the line of action for this study.

Your contribution is our future
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 required to be on-site to maximize the knowledge exchange.

Duration 
•    6 months
•    Start in January 2023
•    1 or 2 students

Be part of the change – apply today! 
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 01/12/2022 

Please note that due to GDPR, applications via email will not be accepted.
 
For questions about the thesis work please contact Ugo Jantel at ugo.jantel@volvocars.com.

We are Volvo Cars

Volvo Cars is a company on a mission to bring traditional car manufacturing into a connected, sustainable and smart future. Since 1927, we've been known for our commitment to safety and for creating innovative cars that make life less complicated. In 2010, we decided to radically redefine our business, resulting in a totally new generation of cars and technology, as well as steady growth and record sales - and we're only getting started. By 2025, we aim to have yearly sales of 1.2 million cars, 50% of which will be electric vehicles and sold directly to customers through digital channels. We also intend to strengthen our position as a modern, progressive employer committed to diversity and gender and racial equality. We believe in the power of people. Join us and be part of Volvo Cars' transformation.