Catalogue description Department of Scientific and Industrial Research: National Engineering Laboratory: Registered Files (NEL Series)

In 1945, the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research's Committee on Mechanical Engineering Research recommended the establishment of a Mechanical Engineering Research Organisation, and of a Mechanical Engineering Research Board. These were set up in 1946 and 1947 respectively.

The Research Board advised on research to be undertaken, submitted annual programmes of research and reports, and advised on the conduct of approved investigations. The Laboratory undertook research as directed, on for example, problems arising in mechanical engineering and the fatigue of materials. Some of the laboratory's work originated in the National Physical Laboratory

In 1959 the Mechanical Engineering Research Laboratory was renamed the National Engineering Laboratory and the board replaced by a small steering committee of the Research Council to direct its work. The committee was assisted by small specialist sub-committees drawn mainly from industry.

In 1965 the laboratory was transferred to the control of the Ministry of Technology, in 1970 to the Department of Trade and Industry, in 1974 to the Department of Industry, and subsequently to the second Department of Trade and Industry.

In recent years, the purpose of the laboratory has been to establish the principles and to extend the knowledge of mechanical engineering science so that industry may be provided with the basic information needed to solve particular problems The laboratory carries out research for both the government and the private sector