Über diese Master Thesis: Characterization of the Compressive Behavior of Seal on Bipolar Plate Assemblies for Fuel Cell Stacks Stelle bei Airbus
Job Description:
About Aerostack & Project Context
Aerostack, a joint venture between Airbus and ElringKlinger AG, is developing high-performance fuel cell stacks to enable zero-emission commercial flight. A critical challenge in this mission is mastering the complex mechanical interaction between hyperelastic polymer seals and ultra-thin, work-hardened metallic bipolar plates (BPP). We are looking for a master's student to define the exact compression tolerance band that guarantees a perfect seal without crushing the metallic structures.
Project Scope
Your primary objective is to characterize the compression behavior of Seal on Bipolar Plate (SoBPP) assemblies and define a safe operating window that directly contributes to a weight-optimized aerospace fuel cell stack.
Key Responsibilities & Tasks
Experimental Characterization: Conduct mechanical compression tests on representative SoBPP assemblies to measure force-displacement responses and identify the onset of localized plastic deformation.
State-of-the-Art Research: Review current literature on the compression behavior of thin metal-polymer assemblies to support your methodology.
Data Synthesis: Define the allowable compression window by identifying exact failure thresholds for both under-compression (leakage) and over-compression (structural collapse).
Hardware Optimization: Translate your experimental findings into actionable design guidelines to minimize the weight of the fuel cell stack compression system.
Start date: November 2026
Location: Aerostack GmbH, Dettingen an der Erms, Germany
Duration: 6 months
Profile & Qualification
Required skills & background
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computational Engineering, or a comparable field of study
Software and Tools:
Solid knowledge of structural mechanics and materials science
Initial experience with computer-aided design (CAD) and finite element (FE) modeling
Basic programming skills (e.g., Python)
Hands-on laboratory experience
Mindset and Languages:
Independent and structured way of working
Language Skills: Fluent in English
General information
Our offer
Challenging tasks driven by unique products and cutting-edge technologies
A welcoming and collaborative atmosphere in a professional, international environment
Comprehensive onboarding program to ensure a smooth start
Monthly compensation
Flexible working hours
On-site catering facilities
Comments
Candidates need to be enrolled at ideally a German or European university
Candidates are responsible for independently securing an academic supervisor at their university
Note that this position requires a 5-day on-site presence and no assistance for finding accommodation can be provided
Application
We look forward to receiving your application, including your CV, cover letter, current transcript of records, certificate of enrollment, your intended institute, and your earliest possible start date via the tool and email:
Please use the subject line ‘Application Master Thesis: SoBPP Compression / [Your Name]’; otherwise, your application cannot be processed or considered.
For technical questions or further details regarding the scope of the thesis, please feel free to reach out to:
Dr.-Ing. Felix Weber
Simulation Engineer
E-Mail: [email protected]
This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.
Company:
Aerostack GmbHEmployment Type:
Final-year Thesis-------
Experience Level:
StudentJob Family:
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Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.
Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to [email protected].
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