Tomographic temperature imaging at aero-engine combustor exit with high spatial resolution

As the core of the aero-engine, the combustor must be designed to satisfy high combustion efficiency, low exhaust pollution, better stability and long duty life. When the performance of the combustor is evaluated, the temperature distribution at the aero-engine combustor exit is a critical factor, which reveals combustion efficiency, and particularly, the longevity of the turbine components. Once temperature deviates from the normal range, disastrous results would be caused due to the overheated or even burned turbine guide blades. Therefore, it is highly demanded to accurately measure the temperature distribution at the combustor exit.

Near/mid infrared laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS) has been widely used for line-of-sight temperature measurement along the laser beam. In combination with tomographic techniques, LAS tomography, i.e. tomographic absorption spectroscopy using multiple beams, provides a sensitive and fast-response solution for 2D temperature imaging in non-uniform flow fields.

The objectives of this PhD projects are:

  1. Tomographic optical sensor and embedded system design.
  2. Tomographic signal processing and machine learning based image reconstruction.
  3. Experimental validation of the sensor on temperature imaging at aero-engine combustor exit.

During the project, the PhD candidate will be trained to develop tomographic optical sensors targeting mm-level spatial resolution, and embedded system with high speed and high signal-to-noise ratio. The PhD candidate will also be trained with advanced signal processing technique and reconstruct the temperature image aided by machine learning. In collaboration with the industrial partner, the designed sensor and system will be finally employed for temperature imaging at aero-engine combustor exit. The candidate should also be confident with trouble shooting and collaborating with industrial partners in the experiment tests.

In addition, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with industrial and academic partners, to present innovative results in international conferences, to publish high-impact journal papers, and, eventually, to deliver advanced laser-based technology to gas turbine monitoring.

Further Information: 

Technical Queries directed to Dr Chang Liu at

The closing date for applications is 21st December 2018, or until the vacancy is filled.

Closing Date: 

Friday, November 30, 2018

Principal Supervisor: 



Further information on English language requirements for EU/Overseas applicants.



Further information and other funding options.

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