Ralph Lindken

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ralph Lindken is a Professor of Fluid Mechanics and Turbomachinery at Bochum University of Applied Sciences' Department of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering. His interdisciplinary research focuses on laser-optical measurement techniques (e.g., PIV), microfluidics, and geothermal drilling processes. He leads projects like SolarCool (photovoltaic cooling systems) and ROWDY (waterjet drilling optimization). Lindken holds a diploma in mechanical engineering from Ruhr University Bochum and conducted postdoctoral research at Delft University of Technology. He is actively involved in academic governance, serving on the Senate Research Commission and coordinating the Mechanical Engineering Network Association of German Engineers (VDI). His work bridges fundamental fluid mechanics with industrial applications, including renewable energy systems and advanced drilling technologies.

Research Interests:

• Development of advanced PIV techniques for complex flows
• High-pressure jetting for geothermal drilling
• Evaporative cooling for photovoltaic efficiency
• Microfluidic interfacial dynamics
• Flow measurement in turbine systems

Projects:

• FLOWPREDICT: vibration-based flow analysis for predictive maintenance
• KOENIG: multiscale wave-laboratory for fluid-sound interaction studies
• DOMINGO: automation of next-gen drilling processes

Collaborations: International Geothermal Center GZB, TU Delft, and industry partners in renewable energy and fluid mechanics.