UNIZIK Final-Year Students Develop Automated Hydraulic Press for Materials Research

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 project was developed in response to the high cost and limited availability of specialised laboratory equipment, showcasing the students’ ability to turn challenges into practical engineering solutions.

The automated hydraulic press is designed to consolidate powder materials into solid samples and facilitate the fabrication of polymer and metal nanocomposites for laboratory applications.

Beyond its role as a final-year project, the equipment is expected to serve as a laboratory facility for practical training, undergraduate research, final-year projects and postgraduate studies within the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering.

The development also highlights the department’s focus on equipping students with practical engineering skills and promoting indigenous technological development. Through the project, the students identified a real-world challenge, conceptualised a solution, designed and fabricated the required equipment, and applied engineering principles to meet a practical need.

The Head of the Department, Engr. Dr. Kingsley C. Nnakwo, said the achievement reflects the philosophy of MME, UNIZIK, which places emphasis on creativity, innovation and problem-solving alongside classroom learning.

“At MME, UNIZIK, we don't just teach engineering—we encourage our students to create solutions,” he said.