David Bradney

Dr David Bradney is a Conjoint Lecturer at the University of Newcastle (Australia) within the Mechanical Engineering department and serves as Engineering Manager at TUNRA Bulk Solids. His academic career spans roles as Research Associate (2017-2018) and Associate Lecturer (2016-2018).

• Education: PhD (2016) and Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours) from the University of Newcastle

Research Interests focus on Wind Energy and Bulk Materials Handling, with expertise in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Discrete Element Method (DEM), and Finite Element Modelling. His work addresses turbine performance in turbulent flows, fatigue load analysis, and industrial wear prediction.

Publications span wind turbine blade dynamics, thermal stress in coal handling equipment, and marine biomechanics studies. Recent projects analyze shiploader trimmer flap failures and small wind turbine fatigue life using advanced simulation techniques.

• Total Funding: $976,436 across 9 grants (2017-2024)
• Key Funders: Australian Coal Research Limited, Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, Melvelle Equipment Corporation

Professional Contributions include developing Arduino-based wind turbine monitoring systems, novel rail pre-tensioning technology, and smart conveyor safety systems. He has supervised one Master's student in coal dust mitigation research.