The SKF University Technology Centre for Grease Lubrication in the Department of Mechanics of Solids, Surfaces and Systems (MS3), part of the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET), is seeking two highly motivated PhD students to investigate grease degradation and contamination mechanisms in rolling bearings, as well as grease distribution, mixing and flow in the bearing. The project is in collaboration with two major industrial partners and the outcome will facilitate the development of “smart” lubrication systems, increase the reliability of bearings, and support application engineering in lubrication strategies.

Rolling bearings are essential high-tech machine components of expensive and maintenance-sensitive equipment. Most rolling bearings are lubricated with grease, the latter often having a much shorter useful life. In industrial applications, such as large electric motors and wind turbines, bearings are re-lubricated at intervals, as a routine maintenance task. During ...