VKI is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Professor Claus Sieverding on January 16, 2024

The von Kármán Institute for Fluid Dynamics (VKI) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Professor Claus Sieverding on January 16, 2024. Professor Sieverding was a highly respected researcher and professor, world-renowned expert in the field of turbomachinery. He was a pioneer in the development of new turbomachinery concepts, and his research has had a profound impact on the development of advanced energy technologies.

Professor Claus Sieverding was born in Germany in 1939. He received his diploma in Mechanical Engineering from theTechnische Hochschule, Hannover, Faculty of Applied Mechanics, Germany in 1965. After completing his diploma course in 1966, he joined VKI as a research fellow. He quickly rose through the ranks to become a full professor and the Head of the turbomachinery and propulsion department in 1998. He was a prolific researcher, with wide world reknown publications. His research focused on a wide range of topics in turbomachinery, such as secondary flows, base flows, aerodynamic performance of gas and steam turbines and many others. He also played a key role in the development of several new turbomachinery concepts.

In addition to his research, Professor Sieverding was also a dedicated teacher. He taught a wide range of courses at VKI, namely advanced courses on turbines, blade cooling, design, steady and unsteady secondary flows. He was also a frequent guest lecturer at universities around the world.

Professor Sieverding was a true pioneer in the field of turbomachinery, and his contributions will be missed by all who knew him. He was a kind and caring man who was always willing to share his knowledge with others. He will be remembered as a true visionary and a true leader in his field.

 “It was always a pleasure greeting and talking to Professor Sieverding whenever he stopped by at his beloved VKI. I will always keep fine memories of Professor Sieverding, who was a true gentleman, a brilliant researcher and a wonderful teacher. He was always willing to go the extra mile to help his students succeed. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.”, Peter Grognard, Managing Director