Thesis work: 30hp - Crack propagation in welded components with FE simulation

TRATON Group R&D (including e.g. Scania and MAN) invites a motivated master’s student to contribute to the advancement of simulation-driven durability assessment for heavy vehicle exhaust aftertreatment systems. The project focuses on the development and application of finite element (FE) based crack propagation models, with particular emphasis on welded joints subjected to thermal and mechanical loading.

Background:
Modern emission legislation and alternative fuels place high demands on the reliability of exhaust aftertreatment systems. These components are exposed to severe thermal cycles, leading to complex stress states—especially in welded regions. Advanced FE simulations are essential for identifying critical locations and predicting service life, reducing the need for extensive physical testing.

Target:

To contribute to the method development of crack propagation models that can assess the progressive damage in critical positions of the exhaust aftertreatment systems. Crack propagation is in particular important in the assessment of welds.

Assignment:

• Benchmark and literature study of different crack propagation models in FE-simulation, for example that take plasticity into account.
• To use the work and models proposed in a previous thesis on a larger model and develop it further.
• Parameter optimization and calibration of crack propagation models based on the results from physical experiments of components.
• Investigate crack propagation models in finite elements simulations to assess the low cycle fatigue life of exhaust aftertreatment systems exposed to thermal load, in both sheet metal and weld locations.

Education:

Master of Science in Engineering mechanics, Vehicle engineering, Lightweight structures, Welding technology, Mechanical engineering, Applied physics or Solid mechanics.

Requirements:

Basic courses in finite element method and solid mechanics. Advanced courses have merit, in particular in fatigue and fracture mechanics, material science and weld assessment.

Number of students: 1
Start date: January 2026
Estimated time needed: 20 weeks

Contact persons and supervisors:
Nathalie Nowicki, phone: +46700813933

Application: 
Enclose CV, personal letter and university course transcript including grades.

A background check and security interview will be conducted for this position.