Taif, an engineer, completed his BEng in Aerospace Engineering (Honours) at Queen Mary, University of London, in 2016. His undergraduate thesis primarily concentrated on mitigating acoustic disturbances in drone propellers. This research encompassed comprehensive design and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) testing. Taif achieved notable success in reducing noise emissions and received a first-class grade for his exceptional research efforts.
Following his graduation, he gained professional experience as an Aviation Workshop Engineer and Aviation Teacher in the United Arab Emirates. He possesses expertise in CAE software and holds certifications in AutoCAD, Inventor, and Ultimaker Cura. Presently, he is a member of cohort 5 at the AAPS CDT, where he will leverage his accumulated knowledge and skills to research the Fundamental Fluid Dynamics of Gas Turbine Brush Seals.
Participating in the AAPS program will not only help improve Taif's research skills and industry impact but also allow him to contribute to innovation in aerospace engineering, where he can assist in advancements and address complex challenges within propulsion systems.
Seals are an essential component used in a variety of applications and machinery, from steam engines to electric motors. They are considered a cost-effective method in improving engine performance and efficiency. They are designed to limit parasitic loss, such as hot gases escaping a turbine. Labyrinth seals have been used for some time and are popular in turbomachinery applications. However, brush seals are an alternative (and are considered an improvement) but are prone to excessive wear which prevents their widespread use.
Taif's PhD is concerned with the performance and effectiveness of brush seals used in turbomachinery. Using a dedicated scaled brush seal rig, the research will look at collecting information to understand the fundamental flow behaviour of brush seals. This will give an insight into important brush seal parameters and govern future designs. Ultimately, making brush seals more attractive, effective, and leading to improved engine and motor performance.
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