UNIZIK DRIVING INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES
UNIZIK MME Students Develop Automated Hydraulic Press, Drive Indigenous Engineering Innovation
Final-year students of the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (MME), Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, have designed, fabricated and automated a hydraulic press and compression-mould cavity to support materials processing and research.
The innovation was developed in response to the high cost and limited availability of specialised laboratory equipment, demonstrating the students’ ability to transform challenges into practical engineering solutions.
The automated hydraulic press is designed for the consolidation of powder materials into solid samples, as well as the fabrication of polymer and metal nanocomposites for laboratory applications.
Beyond serving as a final-year project, the equipment is expected to provide a valuable laboratory facility for practical training, undergraduate research, final-year projects and postgraduate studies within the Department.
The project reflects the Department’s commitment to equipping students with practical engineering skills and encouraging indigenous technological development. It demonstrates how students can identify real-world challenges, conceptualise solutions, design and fabricate equipment, and apply engineering knowledge to address practical needs.
According to the Head of Department, Engr. Dr. Kingsley C. Nnakwo, the achievement underscores the philosophy of MME, UNIZIK, which goes beyond classroom instruction to foster creativity, innovation and problem-solving.
“At MME, UNIZIK, we don't just teach engineering—we encourage our students to create solutions,” he said.
← Back to News
