The University of Sheffield
Department of Mechanical Engineering

Professor Chris Wilson

PhD, CEng, FInstE, FRAeS

Prof C Wilson

Professor

Director of Low Carbon Combustion Centre

Department of Mechanical Engineering
Sir Frederick Mappin Building
Mappin Street
Sheffield
S1 3JD
UK

Telephone: +44(0)114 222 7832
Fax: +44(0)114 222 7890

email : c.w.wilson@sheffield.ac.uk

Areas of Research

Chris's research team is actively using modelling and experimental techniques to investigate fundamental and applied combustion technologies. These technologies range from the latest designs of aerospace propulsion (Pulse Detonation Engines) to schemes for energy from waste and the combustion of all kinds of fuels. The aim is to produce low carbon combustion technologies which are sustainable and reduce environmental impacts.

The team works with the government, helping to set and improve aerospace emission regulations and assess new projects such as the third runway at London Heathrow. Ongoing projects include being part of the EU funded network of excellence into Environmentally Compatible Air Transport Systems (ECATS).

The University is supporting the team to establish a new 11,000 sq.ft Energy and Power Technology Centre (EPTeC) to support Chris's group. The centre contains a range of facilities bridging the gap between fundamental research and full scale demonstration. EPTeC includes a 350kW fluidized bed pilot plant, a SOOkW furnace, a 300kw rotary kiln, solid oxide fuel cell capability and gas turbine combustion rigs.

Chris's team works closely with industry such as Rolls-Royce and the group is actively involved in working on issues such as future aviation fuels and lubricants. The Mechanical Engineering Department is host to engine simulators, which can evaluate aviation fuels and lubricants before they go on to be used by the industry.
 

Modelling work carried out by the team includes the use of genetic algorithms in the optimization of designs and the growth of chemical kinetic schemes to predict the performance of a range of fuels.
 

Chris's team works closely with industry such as Rolls-Royce and the group is actively involved in working on issues such as future aviation fuels and lubricants. The Mechanical Engineering Department is host to engine simulators, which can evaluate aviation fuels and lubricants before they go on to be used by the industry.
 

Modelling work carried out by the team includes the use of genetic algorithms in the optimization of designs and the growth of chemical kinetic schemes to predict the performance of a range of fuels.

Teaching

Selected Publications