Master Thesis: Oil Condition Monitoring

Online monitoring of lubrication oil condition in aircraft engines is a key component of future Engine Health Management (EHM) concepts. Due to normal operation, contamination, or sudden component malfunctions, changes in the oil occur. These changes such as aging, additive depletion or contamination can impair lubrication performance and thermal stability. This can potentially leading to increased wear or system failures. Therefore, early detection and prediction of such changes are essential for maintenance planning purposes and maintaining system functionality.As part of a development project, a novel sensor that measures the thermal effusivity of liquids is being tested, enabling conclusions about the oil condition. This “Oil Condition Sensor” will be further investigated and validated within the scope of this Master’s thesis.The goal of this Master’s thesis is to mathematically model the measurement principle of the “Oil Condition Sensor” and validate it through suitable laboratory tests.Strong responsibilitiesConduct a literature review on factors influencing thermal effusivity, oil aging and contamination, e.g. coolant ingress in aircraft enginesSelect relevant oil conditions and define realistic scenarios for the sensor validation, taking into account influencing factors on the measurementPrepare and perform laboratory tests using the sensor systemAssess the sensor’s performance under various operating conditions e.g. accuracy, robustness, and distinguishability of the measured fluidsMathematically model the “Oil Condition Sensor” for measuring thermal effusivityDevelop a model to simulate sensor behavior under different oil conditionsDiscuss and summarize the results in the written thesis, including recommendations for further development and integration into EHM SystemsIdeal qualificationsStudies in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a comparable field at the Technical University of MunichBasic understanding of sensor technology and measurement systemsExperience in mathematical modeling and data analysisInterest in condition monitoring and engine health managementVery good English skillsStrong analytical thinking and the ability to work structured and in a scientific matterThe timeframe for the thesis is 6 months between August 2026 and March 2027.Excellent environmentPractical insights into the aviation industry and jobs with responsibilitiesStrong team cohesion, facilitated by our student network and various eventsMentoring and individual supportFlexible working hours and the possibility of remote work (depending on the area of assignment)Delicious and varied dishes in our company cafeteriaEGYM Wellpass and company sports groupsExcellent connections thanks to commuter bus, parking garage, e-charging station
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