This unit applies to the mixing of moulding sand in continuous and batch type mills.

Band: A

Unit Weight: 4

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Load mixer (mill/muller)

1.1. All pre start-up checks are performed safely and according to standard operating procedures.

1.2. Formula for sand mix is determined according to standard operating procedures.

1.3. Materials are measured and loaded according to formula specification.

2. Mix sand

2.1. Sand is mixed for correct time to specifications.

2.2. The performance of mixer and the condition of the sand is monitored.

2.3. Material supply is maintained.

2.4. Faults are reported.

3. Take and test samples

3.1. Sample is correctly extracted.

3.2. Test is applied in accordance with standard operating procedures.

3.3. Test results are compared against specifications.

3.4. Adjustments to formula/mix are made as required in accordance with standard operating procedures.

4. Discharge mixture

4.1. Load is charged correctly according to standard operating procedures.

4.2. Unwanted treated sand is disposed of according to standard operating procedures.

5. Clean mixer

5.1. Mixer is shut down to standard safety and operating procedures.

5.2. Mixer is cleaned according to standard operating procedures.

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

reading and following written instructions and standard operating procedures

setting parameters for mixing

loading mixers

mixing sand and monitoring the process

sampling and testing mixed sand

discharging sand

closing down and cleaning

using measurement skills for preparing and mixing sand within the scope of this unit

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

characteristics, safe handling procedure and mixture applications of sand and binding agent

moulding requirements

mixers, applications, loading, operating and unloading procedures

volumes, quantities, ratios and percentages

sampling, testing and acceptance criteria for mixed sand

procedures for cleaning and shutting down mixer

environmental requirements for the disposal of unwanted sand

use and application of personal protective equipment

safe work practices and procedures

hazards and control measures related to preparing and mixing sand for metal moulding

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 prepare and mix moulding sand.

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 mixing moulding sand 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

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.

Materials

Sand, silica, zircon, chromite, mixtures, water

Faults

Chemical ratios - acid, binder, water

Mixer

Batch and continuous mixers

Unit sector

Casting and moulding

This unit contains employability skills.