Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers checking pneumatic system components, and identifying and repairing or replacing faulty components.

Application of the unit 

Pneumatic system components are identified, inspected and assessed using fluid power principles to predetermined specifications interpreted from data sheets and circuits diagrams.

Work is undertaken using predetermined standards of safety, quality and work procedures.

Correct operational function of equipment components is confirmed and commissioned in conformance with specification, using standard operating procedures.

For straightforward removals/replacement of components from a pneumatic system, Unit MEM18055B (Dismantle replace and assemble engineering components) or Unit MEM18071B (Connect/disconnect fluid conveying system components) should be regarded as sufficient.

Band : A 

Unit Weight : 4 

Prerequisite units 

Path 1 

MEM09002B

Interpret technical drawing

MEM12023A

Perform engineering measurements

MEM18001C

Use hand tools

MEM18002B

Use power tools/hand held operations

MEM18003C

Use tools for precision work

MEM18006C

Repair and fit engineering components

MEM18055B

Dismantle, replace and assemble engineering components

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. Check pneumatic system components

1.1. System components are identified correctly.

1.2. The characteristics and operational function of each system component are understood.

1.3. The operational function of each component is inspected and tested.

1.4. Correct operation of each component is assessed against specifications.

2. Identify, repair or replace faulty pneumatic system components

2.1. Faulty system components are localised and malfunction is confirmed by inspection and testing using fluid power principles, procedures and safety requirements.

2.2. Faulty system components are dismantled and repaired to manufacturers'/site specifications.

2.3. Replacement parts are selected from manufacturers' catalogue according to required specifications.

2.4. System components are reassembled and verified for correct operation and tested against specifications.

2.5. Correct operation of the pneumatic system is confirmed to standard operating procedures.

2.6. Appropriate follow-up procedures are adopted according to standard operating procedures.

2.7. Where appropriate, service reports are completed using standard operating procedures.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

• inspecting and testing pneumatic system components
• obtaining, interpreting and following written job instructions, specifications, standard operating procedures, charts, lists, drawings, relevant data sheets and other applicable reference documents
• planning and sequencing operations
• checking and clarifying task-related information
• checking individual components within the pneumatic system for correct operation
• dismantling and repairing faulty system components
• selecting replacement parts from manufacturers'/suppliers' catalogues
• assembling pneumatic system components
• testing pneumatic components for correct operation and conformance to specifications
• checking the operation of the pneumatic system for conformance to specification
• checking repaired/replaced pneumatic system components for correct operation
• completing service reports

Required knowledge 

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

• the full range of pneumatic system components
• characteristics/operational function of each component
• procedures for inspecting and testing pneumatic system components
• equipment to test pneumatic system components
• the specifications of each pneumatic system component
• faulty system components
• causes of faulty pneumatic components
• individual components within the pneumatic system
• the safety procedures for working on pneumatic components
• the procedure for repairing pneumatic system components
• procedures for checking pneumatic system operation
• follow-up procedures with respect to repaired/replaced pneumatic system components
• reporting/recording procedures
• hazard and control measures associated with maintaining pneumatic system components, including housekeeping
• safe work practices and procedures

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 maintain pneumatic system components. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

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 maintaining pneumatic system components 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 specifications, 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.

Pneumatic system components 

Static and dynamic seals, linear and semi-rotary actuators, pressure control valves, directional control valves, flow control valves, normally open and closed timers, counters, pneumatic motors, fluid conductors and other associated equipment

Repair /replace 

Repairs and replacements are conducted to site or manufacturers' specifications

Unit sector 

Co-requisite units 

Competency field 

Maintenance and diagnostics