Constellium is a global leader designing and manufacturing innovative and high value-added aluminum products and solutions for a broad range of applications dedicated primarily to aerospace, automotive and packaging markets. Constellium Technology Center (C-TEC) based in Grenoble (Voreppe - 38) is Constellium’ s European research center with 246 employees and 20 nationalities.

Optimize structure of process route using spin forming for Space application

Aluminium is a key player in Space application as it offers low density and high performances. Spin forming is one the of the possible method to shape the domes of the launchers. The complete process route must be optimized to reach the targeted microstructure with this new process, especially for big pieces requiring pre-welding by FSW. Abnormal grain growth can indeed be present in some conditions.

This internship will focus on 2xxx alloys used in Space application. The study aims to optimize the process route to master the final structure after complete process, through lab scale simulation of industrial process. The impact of process schedule on final grain structure will be analyzed.

The goals is to propose strategies to better control microstructural evolution and improve alloy performance.

The project will contain multiple steps:

Bibliographical survey
Define best simulation routes at lab scale
Follow the transformation of products at the lab-scale
Characterize the microstructure through optical observations
Build a comprehensive database
Analyze the data, use models and draw conclusions to make concrete suggestions on methods to further optimize process

The intern will work within the metallurgy team and will be supervised by two R&D engineers.

Education level: M2

Materials Engineering

Competencies & technical & soft skills requirement:

Basic understanding of metallurgy, aluminium alloys and metals processing and characterization methods
Basic bibliographic research skills and ability to synthesize information and write reports
Ability to compile, analyze, synthesize and present results requiring various levels of technical detail (high-level vs. research focused).
Ability to perform experimental work
Ability to work independently but also as part of a team
A high level of organization is necessary and the ability to multi-task will be required
Good level of English and French (both written and spoken)
Actively work in a safe manner and follow standard operating procedures and adhering to Constellium’s required safety practices
A first experience in basic image analysis (ImageJ/Fuji) is a plus