Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for the practical application of materials and process technology using advanced spray lay-up equipment to produce polymer matrix composites.
This unit applies to an experienced technician working alone or as part of a team.
The unit principally refers to the trade-level skills and knowledge for open-mould mechanised wet lay-up to make thermoset composites products, typically ranging in area from 2 square metres to 200 square metres.
No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must be applied.

What You'll Learn

Assessment Requirements

Performance Evidence

There must be evidence the candidate has completed the tasks outlined in the elements and performance criteria of this unit, and demonstrated the ability to:
• produce composites using mechanised open mould wet lay-up at least once to meet job specifications.

Knowledge Evidence

There must be evidence the candidate has knowledge of:
• the functions and operating principles of mechanised open mould wet lay-up equipment
• requirements for correct spraying of materials onto the mould surface
• production workflows and their characteristics
• types of materials and their characteristics, including pot life of the resins used
• the criteria for overall process/equipment readiness for the process or equipment being used
• typical quality standards required at each stage of production
• key variables that may affect product quality and production output including:
• common adjustments that can be made
• impact of variations in raw materials and equipment operation in relation to final product
• possible changes to materials properties to better suit specific process requirements
• impact of ambient conditions and temperature
• output variables, product quality, thickness, colour and integrity
• organisational procedures relevant to the work environment or job role, including procedures for the emergency shutdown of equipment
• hazards that may arise in the job or work environment, and:
• their possible causes
• potential consequences
• appropriate risk controls.

Assessment Conditions

Skills must have been demonstrated in the workplace or in a simulated environment that reflects workplace conditions and contingencies.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.

Foundation Skills

• {'skill': 'Foundation Skills', 'description': 'This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.\n• Numeracy skills to monitor measurable production variables such as product thickness.\n• Reading skills to interpret job and equipment specifications and workplace procedures.\n• Writing and oral communication skills to record and report the operation and process control variances.\nOther foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.'}

Parent Qualifications

• PMB30121 — Certificate III in Polymer Processing
  PMB
• PMB40121 — Certificate IV in Polymer Technology
  PMB

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