Internship | Computational Aerodynamics for Wind Turbines

Internship | Computational Aerodynamics for Wind Turbines

About this position

The assignment will focus on the analysis of novel airfoil shapes using high fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approaches like hybrid RANS/LES. The selected candidate is expected to perform high fidelity simulations of selected airfoils and extract the boundary layer and wake characteristics. These characteristics will then be used to improve RFOIL, our in-house viscous inviscid interaction tool.

What will be your role?

In this project you will set up hybrid RANS/LES simulations of novel flatback airfoils in the open source CFD tool SU2. You are expected to then extract boundary layer characteristics and wake behavior and compare it to a more standard airfoil. The insights generated will be used to improve the performance of RFOIL, a viscous-inviscid interaction tool for flatback airfoils. The data used will be confidential in nature and the selected candidate is expected to follow TNO guidelines on working with confidential data.

Your work will be carried out in our Wind Energy department. This department houses approximately 60 experts with an in-depth knowledge on wind energy technology. You will work from the TNO offices at Petten/Rijswijk offices supervised by 2 to 3 Wind Energy Experts.

What we expect from you

We are looking for MSc students in relevant areas i.e. (Wind)Energy Technology, Aerospace Technology, Mechanical Engineering etc with the following characteristics:

• (Some) background knowledge of CFD, especially hybrid RANS/LES and aerodynamics of wind turbines.
• Scripting experience in python or similar languages.
• Preferably some experience with using CFD softwares and some familiarity with linux OS.
• Good knowledge of the English language and enthusiasm for research and technology development.
• Interest in wind energy, independent working attitude.

What you'll get in return

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

TNO as an employer

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society.