Master Thesis: Study on the Development and Analysis of Actuation Systems for DC Breaking Devices

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This position reports to

R&D Team Lead

Your role and responsibilities

The actuation system for a low voltage switching device is designed to facilitate reliable protection against overcurrent and short circuits. Its primary function is to detect and respond to these conditions, ensuring the safety and integrity of the electrical system. Typically, the system includes a mechanical mechanism that can be operated either manually or automatically. This mechanism is responsible for opening or closing the breaking device, thereby interrupting the flow of electricity when necessary. The force exerted on the actuation mechanism determines its rating, which is crucial for handling the operational demands during an overload or short circuit event. The force must be sufficient to quickly and effectively open the circuit to prevent damage. At ABB Corporate Research in Västerås, different conceptual designs for DC current interruptions have been successfully built. These designs operate independently with different actuation systems. Laboratory demonstrations have clearly shown the DC interruption capabilities. However, integrating the demonstrator mechanically with an integrated actuation system is crucial for practical applications. This integration is important for ensuring reliable operation. The actuation system needs to be capable of performing a high number of mechanical operations and several hundred operations at nominal current levels to ensure long-term reliability and effectiveness. The Master thesis aims to design, simulate, and test an actuation system for a laboratory demonstrator. This involves investigating whether the system can handle the mechanical and electrical demands of frequent operations and high current levels. Details: • Suggested thesis period is the spring semester 2025, or as agreed. • The thesis work comprises 30 credits. • The thesis is suitable for one or two students. • The main supervision of the simulations and testing will take place at ABB Corporate Research in Västerås. Candidates' Responsibilities • Literature Review: Conduct an overview of current designs and recent advancements in actuation mechanisms within switching technology, and analyze their impact on electrical performance. • Design: Utilize CAD tool to design multiple actuation systems, evaluating each to select the most robust and reliable design. • Simulations: Employ software tools (such as e.g. ANSYS or COMSOL) to simulate the performance of the designed actuation systems under various conditions. • Testing: Fabricate the designed components and perform tests, followed by data analysis to assess performance. • Documentation: Compile and document all findings and results in a report.

Qualifications for the role

• Education: Master's degree in design engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Skills: Proficiency in SolidWorks and simulation tools is highly advantageous.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with Power Engineering is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Attributes: Candidates should be analytical, structured, self-driven, and possess a curious mindset.

More about us

For more information, please contact Recruiting Manager Thomas Eriksson, +46 706 88 50 08 or Supervisor James Mannekutla, +46 705 79 15 28 or Co-Supervisor Mrunal Parekh, +46 724 64 46 29. Positions are filled continuously. Apply with your CV, academic transcripts and a cover letter in English. We value people from different backgrounds. Could this be your story? Apply today or visit www.abb.com to read more about us and learn about the impact of our solutions across the globe. #MyABBStory #Li-onsite