ENGINEERING students enjoyed a taste of the industry at leading sensors specialist Balluff Ltd.

More than 70 students and lecturers from the University of Chester’s new campus, Thornton Science Park, gained an insight into engineering in the sensing industry at Balluff at Lostock Gralam.

John Radford, managing director of Balluff Ltd said: “We’re really pleased to welcome new students to Balluff and show them what we do.

“We know how important hands-on and practical skills and knowledge are in the industry, so we’re very proud to be part of something we hope will shape young engineers’ futures and careers.”

After being shown live demonstrations and exhibition equipment the students presented their solutions to a case study to their peers, lecturers and Balluff staff.

Steve Wilkinson, head of chemical engineering at the University of Chester, said: “This visit was an important part of our interdisciplinary teaching which we are pioneering at Chester.

“Science and engineering students of different disciplines, chemical, mechanical, electronic and electrical, work together in small groups to solve real problems faced in industry.

“It really brings this teaching alive if we can visit local technology companies such as Balluff and learn from their experts.”

The event launched a partnership between Balluff and the university which will see further investment in the engineers of the future through events, projects and work placements.

Mr Radford added: “Investing in young engineers is an important goal for Balluff and we’re looking forward to developing this through our relationship with the University of Chester.”

Balluff is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of components for sensors and system solutions. Its UK division is based in Northwich.