Project abstract

High voltage dynamic cables used for power transmission in offshore environments are currently limited to 66kV. This project will conduct a systematic study on dielectric materials used in the construction of submarine cables, with the aim of evaluating their use in the design of dynamic cables with nominal capacity above 66kV.

In this first phase, lasting 24 months, emphasis will be given on studying the mechanical properties of three dielectric materials, assessing their sensitivity to temperature, aging and, especially, to the cyclic loads that are imposed by floating units under the action of waves and sea currents.

Experimental and theoretical approaches will be used. A simplified structural model for a dynamic high-voltage cable will be developed, capable of evaluating the fatigue life of these materials in representative oceanic scenarios.

Requirements for the candidate

Solid background in Engineering, with a PhD or DSc in Mechanical / Materials Engineering or related areas.

Expected skills and background:

•  ability to collect and critically analyze the state of the art related to the project needs;

•  organizational, planning and communication skills - oral and written, in Portuguese and English;

•  adaptability to the project needs, with a strong appreciation for teamwork;

•  background on physical and chemical properties of polymeric materials and their applications to structures subject to offshore environment;

•  knowledge of experimental characterization of mechanical properties of dielectric materials, with understanding of their behavior and long-term failures risks;

•  skills in modeling structures and knowledge of structural mechanics, preferably applied to offshore structures;

•  background on finite element computational tools;

•  background on programming languages, preferably Python; knowledge of object orientation is desirable.

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