Mecmesin OmniTest Machine Demo by the Duchess of Sussex at University of Chichester Tech Park Opening

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex officially opened the University of Chichester’s new Engineering and Digital Technology Park on 3 October 2018. Part of the tour of the £35million development, based at the Bognor Regis campus, was a visit to the Department of Engineering and Design.

The laboratory features several Mecmesin force measurement machines, notably a 50 kN OmniTest Universal Testing Machine (UTM); a state-of-the-art software-controlled materials testing system. Local engineering student Louise Grainger explained the capabilities and practical educational benefits of the equipment, after which the Duchess initiated a live tensile test demonstration; commenting, “It’s a very cool machine.”

Mecmesin’s links with the University of Chichester extend beyond the provision of equipment in support of technology-related courses to include the placements of students for work experience, this having resulted in permanent staff appointments. Mecmesin also works with local Sussex schools to encourage young people to explore a potential future engineering career.