Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers setting up and selecting components associated with single linear pneumatic systems.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to all engineering or manufacturing environments.

The unit refers to simple pneumatic circuits containing single linear actuators.

Work is carried out under supervision.

Band : 0 

Unit Weight : 0 

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Determine system requirements

1.1. Instructions regarding system requirements are obtained, understood and clarified as necessary.

1.2. Circuit drawings using standard symbols are interpreted correctly.

2. Select components for simple pneumatic circuits

2.1. Suitable air system components are selected for given fluid power systems from specification charts and in accordance with safety procedures involving compressed air.

2.2. Linear actuators are selected to suit system requirements.

2.3. Control valves are selected to suit system requirements.

3. Verify component selection

3.1. Circuits are set up and operated on laboratory benches.

3.2. Operation is analysed and outcomes are verified against system requirements.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

• drawing pneumatic circuits
• testing operation of pneumatic circuits
• assessing performance
• calculating circuit requirements
• documenting circuit specifications and test results
• applying fluid power principles

Required knowledge 

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

• fluid power:

• definition of the term fluid power
• differences between pneumatic and hydraulic systems
• advantages and disadvantages of fluid power when compared to mechanical and electric power systems
• safety procedures when working with compressed air and associated equipment

• awareness of different components including:

• air compressors
• receivers, interlocks
• pipes - rigid and flexible
• valves - types and functions
• filters - types and functions
• gauges and instruments - pressure and temperature gauges, liquid level gauges, thermometers, thermocouples, manometers, piezometers
• pipe fittings - elbows/bends
• flow measurement instruments - venturi and orifice meters
• air motors
• linear actuators:
• types, selection and functions
• methods of supporting linear actuators
• introduction to calculations related to linear actuators
• recognition and drawing of standard symbols
• observation and analysis of performance of linear actuators in laboratory circuits
• control valves (hydraulic and pneumatic):
• directional controls and functions
• check valves and functions
• pressure controls and functions
• flow controls and functions
• recognition and drawing of standard symbols for control valves
• drawing and analysis of typical circuits containing control valves
• observation and analysis of performance of valves in basic circuits

• circuit design and analysis (single linear actuator):

• drawing and analysis of circuit diagrams containing basic components
• setting up and operating circuits on pneumatic and hydraulic benches in a fluid power laboratory

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to set up basic pneumatic circuits.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with setting up basic pneumatic circuits or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment 

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifi-cations, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment 

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Safety procedures 

Following required precautions when using compressed air and when shutting down air compressors and receivers

Unit sector 

Co-requisite units 

Competency field 

Engineering technician