Loughborough Institute of Advanced Studies Podcast

Dr Jonny Hansen - Electric Vehicle (EV) Tribology & Technology

IAS Visiting Fellow Dr Jonny Hansen delivers a seminar on their research - 
This talk explores the key role of tribology in advancing electric vehicle (EV) mobility. Emphasizing the intricate connection between the electrical and lubrication regimes in EV bearing contacts, the presentation highlights the challenges posed by electrified conditions to the traditionally considered relative safety of the elasto-hydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) regime.
Accurate assessments of the EHL to mixed lubrication (ML) transition are urgently needed. However, conventional methods like Tallian’s lambda ratio prove inadequate, potentially leading to false indications of ML and the absence of electric arcing caused by 'bearing currents.'
To address these issues, Dr Hansen introduces Λ*, a novel film parameter designed for a more precise assessment of the lubrication regimes. This parameter aids in evaluating under which conditions electric arcing may occur and when the lubricant film is sufficiently thick for electrical insulation.
The presentation then extends its focus to cover EV drivetrain technology in the context of the proposed film parameter and concludes by highlighting current design mitigation strategies for EVs, along with prospects for further research.
For more information about the IAS, please visit - https://www.lboro.ac.uk/research/ias

Dr Daniel Boateng - Being active in Ghana: A CLiMB Ghana study

IAS Visiting Fellow Dr Daniel Boateng delivers a seminar on their research - 
The Centre for Lifestyle Medicine and Behaviour (CLiMB) is collaborating with colleagues from institutions in Ghana (CLiMB-Ghana), to conduct a descriptive cross-sectional study in six regions of Ghana, with two regions each selected from the southern, middle, and northern parts of Ghana. In 2022, 19% and 25% of the adult male and female populations respectively, in Ghana were physically inactive. However, efforts to address physical inactivity in the population lags behind other health priorities. Using a survey, the study aims to assess a range of feasible physical activities available to Ghanaians and evaluate adults understanding, attitudes, and behavioural patterns towards physical activity. Using a multistage sampling design ~1000 adults residing in selected study sites in Ghana will be invited to participate.  Findings will provide important information  for the implementation of future physical activity interventions in Ghana, as well as for other African countries.
For more information about the IAS, please visit - https://www.lboro.ac.uk/research/ias