Mr. Tim Tonkin , BSc MEng (UK), is an expert in Pneumatics , Hydraulics , Electro Pneumatics , Electro Hydraulics , Proportional Hydraulics , CAD/CAM/CNC Programming , PLCs ( Siemens & Festo ) with over 30 years of industrial and field experience . He is currently the Lead Mechanical Engineer at NMMU where he supervises projects on design and manufacture of fully automated machine for Siemens and Festo , conducts tension tests for strength of materials , and takes charge on all machine shop work and industrial CNC machining , maintenance and updating of laboratory equipment to keep in line with industry standards.

His lengthy industrial experience coupled with his zeal for learning and imparting his knowledge has led him to develop courses and present practical classes to undergraduate students and industry delegates .

Previously, he worked with Shatterprufe , as the Mechanical Team Leader supervising engineers and technicians to ensure correct practice in conducting air receiver pressure tests and on the maintenance of fans , gearboxes , furnaces , screening machines , edge working machine & pumps , and directing the design and installation of pneumatic and hydraulic control systems .

Much earlier in his career life, he was with several international companies such as SASOL , Ford Motors and Commonwealth Smelting , overseeing their mechanical maintenance department and taking charge in the overhaul and repair of body buck lines , conveyors , gearboxes , crushers , furnaces , centrifugal pumps , compressors , spray booth , fans , pneumatic control equipment , hydraulic equipment and other plant-related equipment .

Mr. Tonkin gained his degrees from South Bristol Technical College ( UK ) and the City & Guilds of the London Institute of Mechanical Engineering .