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

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

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