Master Thesis: Oil Condition Monitoring

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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.

Tasks

• Conduct a literature review on factors influencing thermal effusivity, oil aging and contamination, e.g. coolant ingress in aircraft engines
• Select relevant oil conditions and define realistic scenarios for the sensor validation, taking into account influencing factors on the measurement
• Prepare 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 fluids
• Mathematically model the “Oil Condition Sensor” for measuring thermal effusivity
• Develop a model to simulate sensor behavior under different oil conditions
• Discuss and summarize the results in the written thesis, including recommendations for further development and integration into EHM Systems

Requirements

• Studies in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a comparable field at the Technical University of Munich
• Basic understanding of sensor technology and measurement systems
• Experience in mathematical modeling and data analysis
• Interest in condition monitoring and engine health management
• Very good English skills
• Strong analytical thinking and the ability to work structured and in a scientific matter

The timeframe for the thesis is 6 months between August 2026 and March 2027.

Our Offer

• Insights into the aviation industry and jobs with responsibility
• Team spirit, e.g. through student network & events
• Mentoring and individual support
• Flexible working time models with mobile working
• Canteen, café bar and sales shops
• Sports cooperation with EGYM Wellpass & company sports groups
• Excellent connections thanks to commuter bus, parking garage, e‑charging station

Ready?

Give your career a boost and send us your complete application (CV, Transcript of Records, High School Diploma).

We are looking forward to getting to know you!