Experimental Evaluation of a Particle Fractionator

Current trends in paper and pulp production aim on product diversification covering new markets, i.e. fibre-plastic compounds. Separating fibres and fines (i.e., particles smaller than 200μm) may become a crucial process step in future. Answering to this future need, we developed a novel fractionation device in a collaborative project with industry.

First studies revealed a dependence of the separation performance on key flow parameters, and was investigated by means of high-speed imaging (Figure 1, right panel).

Figure 1: Illustration of the fractionation device. (© Jakob D. Redlinger-Pohn, IPPT, TUG)

Bachelor projects will aim on detail investigations of how the fibre network formation affects separation performance. The bachelor students will receive training in the handling of the fractionator, image recording and post-processing with our existing high-speed camera.

We offer

• high industrial and scientific relevance (i.e., a novel separation process which will be applied in “real-world” trials at a paper mill)
• bleeding edge high-speed camera equipment and image post-processing routines
• desk and office space

Contact

Jakob D. Redlinger-Pohn, redlinger-pohn(at)tugraz.at; 0316 873 30421

The bachelor thesis projects can be started earliest by May 1^st 2017 and latest in July 1^st 2017.

Design and Construction of a Particle Fractionation Unit

Current trends in paper and pulp production aim on product diversification covering new markets, i.e. fibre-plastic compounds. Separating fibres and fines (i.e., particles smaller than 200μm) may become a crucial process step in future. Answering to this future need, we developed a novel fractionation device in a collaborative project with industry.

First studies aimed on the investigation of key process parameters by means of optical imaging, resulting into a rectangular channel design (Figure 1), which however is not best suited for industrial use. Following we will re-design the fractionator for industrial use.

Figure 1: Illustration of the fractionation device. (© Jakob D. Redlinger-Pohn, IPPT, TUG)

The goal of the construction thesis is to implement a single-fractionation line favoring industrial use. The student will need to prepare construction drawings using CAD, preferably Autodesk® Inventor. Prior skills from technical high-school are of advantage. The final fractionator will be evaluated by means of experimental trials.

We offer

• high industrial and scientific relevance (e.g., novel separation process with future application in paper and pulp industry)
• desk and office space

Contact

Stefan Radl, radl(at)tugraz.at, 0680 / 12 22 168

Jakob D. Redlinger-Pohn, redlinger-pohn(at)tugraz.at, 0316 873 30421

The thesis should start in August 2017.

Up-Scale Study of Laboratory Fractionator for Industrial Use 

Current trends in paper and pulp production aim on product diversification covering new markets, i.e. fibre-plastic compounds. Separating fibres and fines (i.e., particles smaller than 200μm) may become a crucial process step in future. Answering to this future need, we developed a novel fractionation device in a collaborative project with industry.

First studies resulted into the development of a low-energy separation unit, which was successfully demonstrated on the laboratory scale. The next step is the process up-scaling to demonstrate process feasibility on a pilot-scale. The goal of the master thesis is the planning, construction, and performance evaluation of critical components needed to split and combine a pulp suspension (see Figure 1). Newest imaging methods shall be used therefore.

Figure 1: Illustration of the fractionation process
(© Jakob D. Redlinger-Pohn, IPPT, TUG)

The master student will need to draw construction plans using CAD, preferably Autodesk^® Inventor.
Prior skills from technical high-school are of advantage. The master students will receive training in the handling of the fractionator, image recording and post-processing with our existing high-speed camera.
 

We offer

•  high industrial and scientific relevance (i.e., a novel separation process which will be applied in “real-world” trials at a paper mill)
• bleeding edge high-speed camera equipment and image post-processing routines
• support from the project team at IPPT and IPZ
• desk and office space
• Remuneration: 6 months á 440€.

Contact
Stefan Radl, radl(at)tugraz.at, 0680 / 12 22 168
Jakob D. Redlinger-Pohn, redlinger-pohn(at)tugraz.at, 0316 873 30421

The master thesis should start in summer 2017.

Cohesive particulate matter is of central importance for chemical engineering, as well as a plurality of other sciences, e.g., space or earth sciences that are interested in the mechanical properties of particulate systems. While a variety of particle-scale models for cohesive systems are available (e.g., models for van der Waals forces), the effect of model details on bulk properties (e.g., the yield locus, or the bulk density) are not well explored. Also, most available force models were built for infinitely stiff particles. This image of infinitely stiff particles conflicts with the assumption of Discrete Element Method (DEM)-based simulators that rely on (often very) soft particles.

We are looking for two enthusiastic students. More details are available HERE.

We offer

·           high industrial and scientific relevance (e.g., for powder processing, petroleum engineering, or space science)

·           computer(s) with installed, fully documented, and tested DEM simulation software LIGGGHTS®. Tutorials, screencasts, and personal training on the DEM simulator can be provided. Based on the interest of the student(s), an introduction to C/C++ programming can be provided to allow students to extend the simulation software

·           desk and office space for writing the bachelor thesis

Contact

Stefan Radl, radlnoSpam@tugraz.at; 0680 / 12 22 168. The bachelor thesis projects can be started earliest by April 1^st 2017. However, thesis work during the summer months would be preferred.

Swallowing issues of standard tablets and capsules is an increasing issue in delivering especially higher dosed medicines to patients. One of the most promising approaches is the use of small multiparticulate systems that can be dispersed in food or beverages for administration. In order to achieve a precise dose of the medicine, a precise dose of multiparticulates is filled into two piece capsules, which are opened before the administration.

This thesis will focus on the engineering concept development of a capsule opening device by simple manual opening mechanism. This master thesis will include a variety of different research tools from literature research to engineering concept development and preliminary functional assessment. The master student will be supervised by myself and supported by PhD students.

Requirements

·         Understanding in mechanical systems and engineering

·         Motivation and creativity towards problem solving

·         Interest in working on medical device development and human factored design

We offer

·         A project that matters the patient and is highly relevant for the pharmaceutical industry

·         A thesis in the fast evolving field of patient centric drug products

·         Coaching and career development support

·         Financial support during the thesis work

Contact

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Sven Stegemann

TU Graz - IPPT

e-mail: sven.stegemann@tugraz.at

Phone: +43 316 873 0422