Measuring up at UTC South Durham

Students at University Technical College South Durham (in Newton Aycliffe) are finding out how the latest measurement technology can help them to solve manufacturing challenges, following the installation of a ROMER Absolute portable measuring arm from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence (www.hexagonmi.com).

David Land, vice-chairman of the governing body, said that in addition to normal lessons, groups of 14- to 18-year-olds spend one day a week on manufacturing and engineering projects.

They are tasked with identifying root causes, resolving issues and developing solutions to a series of industry-related scenarios. The measuring arm has been used on a number of projects — in particular, for performing scanning assignments.

Mr Land said: “It’s an excellent piece of kit. It gives our students the opportunity not only to use modern technology but also to understand how it can be utilised in the manufacturing environment.”