Master thesis student for Drive systems

Req ID:469345 

At Alstom, we understand transport networks and what moves people. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, and trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, we offer our diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. Every day, more than 80 000 colleagues lead the way to greener and smarter mobility worldwide, connecting cities as we reduce carbon and replace cars.

We are looking for a Master thesis student in Västerås!

Topic proposed: Life Cycle Analysis of rare earth free PM motors for railway traction

Duration: 20 weeks, on-site

Background
Alstom is collaborating with Uppsala University on a new permanent magnet railway traction motor design concept without rare earth metals. It is therefore important to understand the full environmental impact of such a design compared to conventional designs.                                   

Problem description and goals
The thesis project will focus on developing models for and performing a comparative Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of the new motor design with a conventional PM motor design using rare earth metals. Next the models will be used to identify potential environmental issues and risks followed by proposals for improvement and mitigation strategies. In addition to the LCA in itself, the work can be expected to involve a familiarization with the motor designs themselves and electric traction system performance simulations.

1. Introduction to electric railway traction systems
2. Introduction to Alstom’s railway traction motors and study of conventional PM motor designs
3. Study of rare earth free motor design under development
4. Literature survey of domain relevant LCA studies
5. Introduction to Alstom’s traction system performance simulation and LCA tools
6. Traction system performance simulations for design
7. LCA model and workflow development
8. Analysis: Comparative LCA, issue and risk identification, improvement and mitigation strategies
9. Conclusions and reporting

The scope of the project might be best suited for two thesis students but can be adapted for a single student.

All about you

Background in electrical power engineering combined with ecodesign, familiarity with electrical machine design. The combined competencies could therefore be divided between two students with slightly different profiles.

Things you’ll enjoy

Join us on a life-long transformative journey – the rail industry is here to stay, so you can grow and develop new skills and experiences throughout your career. You’ll also:

• Collaborate with transverse teams and helpful colleagues
• Contribute to innovative projects
• Benefit from our investment in your development

You don’t need to be a train enthusiast to thrive with us. We guarantee that when you step onto one of our trains with your friends or family, you’ll be proud. If you’re up for the challenge, we’d love to hear from you!

Important to note

As a global business, we’re an equal-opportunity employer that celebrates diversity across the 63  countries we operate in. We’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace for everyone.