> > > Pre-Technical and Basic Industrial Skills Courses

Courses

Pre-Technical and Basic Industrial Skills

Basic Industrial Math

Course #: Block X21
Duration: 30 hours
What Students Learn: This module of six study units offers the trainee arithmetic and basic mathematics, metric measurement, and calculator fundamentals. The Metric System is an introductory unit which includes metric conversions. Problem exercises and examples in this module are presented in on-the-job scenarios with applications drawn from the industrial context.
Components: Addition and Subtraction (186008); Multiplication and Division (186009); Fractions, Percents, Proportions, and Angles (186010); Metric System (186011); Formulas (186012); Introduction to Algebra (186013);
Special Notes: This updated course replaces lessons contained within Practical Math and Measurements, Block X01. Each study unit contains a progress examination.

Addition and Subtraction

Course #: 186008
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Define the terms: whole number, numeral, digit, decimal, place value, addend, sum, minuend, subtrahend, and difference.
  • Explain the significance of the digit zero in a number.
  • Differentiate between concrete and abstract numbers.
  • Properly prepare numbers for addition and subtraction.
  • Perform addition and subtraction on numbers.
  • How to check your answers to both addition and subtraction problems.
  • How to use a calculator to add and subtract numbers.

Multiplication and Division

Course #: 186009
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Define the terms: factor, multiplicand, multiplier, partial product, dividend, divisor, quotient, and remainder.
  • Recognize the various signs used for multiplication and division.
  • Properly prepare numbers for multiplication and division.
  • Perform multiplication and division on whole numbers and decimals.
  • How to check your answers to both multiplication and division problems.
  • How to find the average of a group of numbers.
  • How to use a calculator to multiply and divide numbers.

Fractions, Percents, Proportions, and Angles

Course #: 186010
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Define the terms: fraction, proper fraction, improper fraction, lowest common denominator, percent, ratio, and proportion.
  • How to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and decimals.
  • How to change fractions to decimals and decimals to fractions.
  • Solve problems involving percent.
  • How to use a protractor to measure angles.
  • Lay out templates for checking angles.
  • How to use a calculator to solve percent problems and to convert fractions to decimals.

Metric System

Course #: 186011
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Name the base units most commonly used in the metric system.
  • Identify metric prefixes and their values.
  • Apply conversion factors to increase or decrease metric base units.
  • Estimate lengths in metric units.
  • Express temperature in degrees Celsius.
  • Define the terms: mass, density, force, torque, and pressure. Identify the metric units used to measure each one.
  • How to use a calculator to convert one metric unit to another.

Formulas

Course #: 186012
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Explain the use of letters in formulas.
  • Prepare and use formulas to solve problems.
  • The use of formulas to calculate the perimeter of a triangle and rectangle, distance, area of a triangle, rectangle, and circle, volume of a pyramid, current in a circuit, and volume of a sphere.
  • How to use a calculator to find square root and solve formulas.
  • Transform and solve an equation.
  • Perform basic arithmetic operations with signed terms.
  • Substitute given numerical values for letters in a formula and find the unknown quantity.

    Special Notes: This updated course replaces 2468.

Introduction to Algebra

Course #: 186013
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Define the terms: term, constant, coefficient, exponent, monomial, trinomial, and polynomial.
  • Identify and combine like terms in an expression.
  • Multiply and divide terms containing exponents.
  • Remove parentheses from an expression and simplify the expression.
  • Perform basic arithmetic operations with signed terms.

Practical Measurements

Course #: Block X22
Duration: 25 hours
What Students Learn: The five lessons in this block present the trainee with a broad overview of measurements found in an industrial setting. In addition to the basic measurements of length, temperature, energy, force, and power, the trainee will learn how materials are measured and handled in bulk quantities. Fluid measurements include the measuring of fluid flow, fluid pressure, and fluid level. All lessons include the metric conversions in addition to the English units.
Components: Temperature Measurement (186023); Linear and Distance Measurement (186021); Bulk Measurement (186022); Energy, Force, and Power (186024); Fluid Measurement (186025);
Special Notes: This updated course replaces the X0105 to X0109 lessons found in Practical Math and Measurements, Block X01. Each study unit contains a progress examination.

Linear and Distance Measurement

Course #: 186021
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Recognize the difference between English and metric units of length.
  • Find the perimeter of rectangular, square, or triangular areas or objects, such as rooms or machine bases, after measuring the sides.
  • Calculate the circumference of circular objects like pipes of tanks after measuring the diameter.
  • Measure lengths with the aid of rigid and flexible rules, thickness gauges and screw pitch gauges.
  • Read a typical vernier scale and micrometer to take precise measurements.

Bulk Measurement

Course #: 186022
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Measure an angle by degrees.
  • Find the areas of rectangles, triangles, and circles.
  • Find the volumes of prisms, cylinders, and cones.
  • Find the weight of material stored in a container.
  • Determine the amount of material that can be stored or handled.
  • Discuss the types and uses of conveyors and weighing systems.

Temperature Measurement

Course #: 186023
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Change temperature units from one system to another.
  • Discuss the use of the various types of thermometers.
  • Select the type of thermometer to be used at certain temperatures.

Energy, Force, and Power

Course #: 186024
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Distinguish between the concepts of energy, force, and power.
  • Explain what the term "work" means, and how it is measured.
  • Know by sight the basic machines, lever, inclined plane, wedge, wheel and axle, and screw.
  • Solve simple problems that involve levers, mechanical advantage, and machine efficiency.
  • List the forms of energy that have important industrial applications, and the instruments used for measuring energy.

Fluid Measurement

Course #: 186025
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Understand the properties of fluids.
  • Determine the density, specific gravity, and viscosity of fluids.
  • Express pressure in three different units.
  • Measure the pressure of fluids using manometers and Bourdon tubs pressure gages.
  • Measure the flow rate of fluids using different types of flowmeters.

Trades Safety: Getting Started

Course #: 186001
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn: Preview
A thorough knowledge of safe practices is an important part of working in any industrial setting. Every industrial worker should be familiar with accident prevention techniques, fire safety mehods, and the use of personal protective equipment.
Injuries in the workplace cost many millions of dollars in medical costs, lost wages, and production losses each year. Many injuries can be prevented by understanding how accidents and injuries can occur. This study unit is designed to help trainees understand why safety is so important, and to present students with information about safety that goes beyond common sense.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Name the agencies that make and enforce safety regulations and explain an employees responsibilities under those regulations.
  • List the physical hazards associated with chemicals and describe how to avoid those hazards.
  • Name several electrical shock hazards and the techniques used to prevent shocks.
  • List the steps in a lock-out / tag-out procedure.
  • Explain the importance of machine guarding and name several types of machine guards.
  • Name the four classes of fire and how to extinguish each of them.
  • Describe the proper technique used to lift a heavy load.
  • Explain how to avoid hand injuries when using hand and power tools.
  • List some of the hazards involved in welding and hot cutting operations and how to prevent them.
  • Explain how job analysis and the science of ergonomics are used to improve the workplace.
  • Explain the importance of personal protective equipment and name several types of PPE.

  • Contents
    Introduction; Safety Regulations; Key safety Issues; Protecting Yourself and Your Co-workers.

Working Safely with Chemicals

Course #: 186002
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn: Preview
This study unit deals with the safe use of chemicals in the workplace. The two primary causes of chemical accidents are the misuse of chemicals and the improper disposal of chemical wastes. Understanding the hazards that chemicals can create is the first step in protecting people from harm.
The main goal of this study unit is to provide students with sound, practical knowledge about chemical use and disposal, both in the workplace and at home. You will learn how to recognize common chemical hazards and how to deal with them. Trainees will learn how to perform a job analysis to look for potential chemical dangers in your daily taks. Finally, people will learn how to take precautions to avoid chemical accidents and make all jobs as safe as possible.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Recognize the six different ways in which a chemical can cause physical injury.
  • Name the routes or paths of entry by which chemicals can enter the body.
  • Describe the types of injuries caused by chemicals.
  • Identify potential chemical dangers in your workplace.
  • Describe how to identify, store and label hazardous chemicals.
  • List several methods used to prevent chemical accidents.
  • Explain why proper training is important to chemical handling.
  • Describe the types of personal protective equipment used and worn when handling chemicals.
  • Explain the role of governmental agencies in enforcing chemical regulations.

  • Contents
    Introduction: Living with Chemicals; Chemical Injuries; Accident Prevention; Handling Hazardous Wastes.

Fire Safety

Course #: 186003
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn: Preview
Fires are the most destructive and expensive of all accidents. However, fires can be effectvely prevented through the combined use of technology and common sense. By understanding how fires get started and how to extinguish them, students will have much of the knowledge needed to protect people from fire. This study unit will introduce trainees to the information you need to practice fire safety and prevention in the workplace.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Describe the types of property losses and injuries associated with fires.
  • Explain how fires are ignited.
  • Identify the four classes of fire.
  • Describe the primary fire hazards found in the workplace.
  • Explain the various ways in which fires can be prevented.
  • Describe the operation of several different fixed fire protection systems.
  • Identify the proper type of portable fire extinguisher to use on a fire.
  • Describe the operation of several different types of fire extinguishers.
  • Explain how to defend yourself and others in a fire situation.
  • Describe how to safely evacuate a burning building.

  • Contents
    Introduction to Fire; Fire Hazards in the Workplace; Preventing Fires; Fixed Fire Protection Equipment; Portable Fire Extinguishers; Fire Protection Techniques.

Material Handling Safety

Course #: 186006
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn: Preview
This study unit introduces the safe techniques and work practices commonly used when handling manufacturing and industrial materials. Trainees will learn the procedures necessary to avoid physical injury to yourself and those working with you, for both manual handling methods and mechanical handling methods. You will also learn procedures that minimize damage to the materials being moved and to facility property. Knowing the proper procedures will also give you the insight to decide when mechanical handling is necessary, or preferred, over traditional physical handling.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Recognize the hazards associated with handling materials.
  • Know the types of injuries that can be caused by these hazards.
  • Understand how to effectively use safe material handling practices.
  • Know how to avoid physical injury when handling loads.
  • Know and follow the rules for safe operation of powered industrial material handling equipment.
  • Understand and respect the limits and restrictions placed on powered material handling mechanisms.

  • Contents
    Introduction to Material Handling; Housekeeping and Storage; Material Handling Equipment; Hoists and Cranes.

Electrical Safety for the Trades

Course #: 186005
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn: Preview
This study unit will introduce students to many workplace situations that require you to work safely with electricity. You will learn how and why electricity can be dangerous. Trainees will also learn about various methods used for protection. Safety begins with the careful installation of electrical components by means of approved wiring methods. You should use safety procedures and practices that insulate you from electricity's power anytime you work with, or near, electrical equipment and components.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Explain how electricity can harm you and your property.
  • Discuss the importance of properly using quality electrical components.
  • Follow the basic methods of protection when wiring electrical installations.
  • Tell why it is important to ground electrical equipment and systems.
  • Select the type of electrical equipment to use in a hazardous location.
  • List the safety practices required in an electrical work area.
  • Talk about the importance of a clear working space around electrical equipment.
  • Educate your own level of safety training to be sure it matches the electrical work you are performing.

  • Contents
    Introduction to Electrical Safety; Using Proper Materials and Components; Equipment Grounding; Hazardous Locations; Safe Working Clearances; Safety Practices.

Working Safely with Electricity

Course #: VB06XX
Duration: 1.12 hours
What Students Learn: Electricity is unforgiving! It is important that every student, trainee and mechanic know the dangers and precautions before they step onto the shop floor. This most important program contains the vital information employees working with electricity should know before they get started. Dramatic interviews with survivors of electrical accidents, combined with a crisp pace and vivid images, will keep students glued to their seats.
Components: The Shock Emergency (VB0602); Emergency Response (VB0604); Electricity Can Kill (VB0601); The Importance of Grounding (VB0603);
Special Notes: This video series is available in a Spanish version.

Jobs, Companies, and the Economy: Basic Concepts for Employees

Course #: 186034
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Recognition of how the economy affects the actions of companies, employees, consumers, and investors.
  • The concept of capitalism and the principles of supply and demand.
  • How government policies affect the amounts of saving, spending, and investing by companies and individuals.
  • Understand economic measuring tools such as the inflation rate, the unemployment rate and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
  • How labor is divided into three employment sectors and how wages are set, including the influence of labor unions and the benefits of a multi-functional workforce.
  • Recognition of how both the employee and the company must compete in an increasingly international marketplace.

    Special Notes: This updated course replaces How Our Economic System Works, study unit 6606, and Economics Today, study unit 186034.

Quality Concepts: Tools and Applications

Course #: 186036
Duration: 5 hours
What Students Learn:

  • Describe how job roles change as a company evolves in its quality consciousness.
  • Explain several ways in which you can support TQM.
  • Identify approaches, practices and skills associated with positive organizational change.
  • Differentiate between the "change process" at the company level and the manufacturing processes that require improvement.
  • Describe major causes of process variation and give examples of how they may affect you in your job.
  • Explain why and how the reduction of variability is a key factor in process improvement.
  • Describe why and how quality and process improvement depend on data-driven decision making.
  • Identify seven quality tools and explain their uses.

Common Hand Tools, Part 1

Course #: 186052
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
In the first part of a students introduction to hand tools, you'll learn about various types of tools as well as how to use them safely. You'll also learn how workpieces are held in place, the manner in which workpieces are marked prior to actually starting a given job, and how to make the most of a workbench's many useful features.
Next, students will be introduced to a group of hand tools which most technicians use on a daily basis -- wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and hammers. Again, you'll learn the correct ways to safely use and take care of these tools. Equally important, students will learn how not to use these tools and the results of their improper use.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Identify common hand tools and their function.
  • Explain how to safely use common hand tools.
  • Maintain most types of hand tools.
  • Describe the benefits of several special features available for some hand tools.

  • Contents
    Working with Hand Tools; Wrenches; Pliers; Screwdrivers; Striking Tools; Tool Storage and Benchwork.

Common Hand Tools, Part 2

Course #: 186053
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
In this study unit, we'll continue the discussion of hand tools commonly used by technicians. While a broad range of technicians use many of the tools discussed here, such as chisels and punches, many others are more specialized and are commonly used by maintenance and machine trades technicians.
Students will learn how to choose the correct chisel or punch for the job, how to care for it, and use it safely.
Next, you'll learn about the variety of different cutting tools such as snips, knives, and hacksaws. Another important group of tools is shaping tools, such as files. Students will learn the different types of files, and again, how to care for them, and use them safely.
Also discussed in this unit are various specialized maintenance tools. These are tools used for specific types of maintenance jobs such as pulling or prying objects from machines, safely inspecting machines, and retrieving objects in areas that aren't easily accessible to the technician.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Identify and use various chisels and punches safely.
  • Use and care for cutting tools.
  • Understand the need for specialized maintenance tools.
  • Correctly use threading and other precision tools.

  • Contents
    Struck Tools; Cutting Tools; Sheet Metal Tools; Shaping Hand Tools; Hand Tools for Threading and other Precision Work; Specialized Maintenance Hand Tools.

Precision Measuring Instruments, Part 1

Course #: 186068
Duration: 10 hours
What Students Learn: Purpose and Language of Measurement; Scale Instruments and Accessories; Vernier Caliper; Micrometers, Gages, and Protractors.

Special Notes:

  • This updated course replaces course 3500A.
  • The entire course consists of study units 186068, 186069, and 3500C.

Electric Drilling and Grinding Tools

Course #: 186054
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
The electric drill is one of the most widely used power tools. It has many uses and is simple to operate. Electric drills can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes, from a light household duty to the heavy-duty industrial grade hand drill and drill press. One variation of the electric drill is the hammer drill or rotary hammer. The hammer drill is a tool used for making holes in concrete and masonry.
Grinders are commonly used for shaping and finishing metal and other materials. Hand grinders are available in sizes ranging from those designed to do the intricate work of the die grinder to that of the 7-inch heavy-duty disc grinder. Bench grinders are standard equipment in most shops, ranging from a 6-inch bench model to the heavy-duty 12-inch pedestal grinder.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Safely set up and operate a portable electric drill, electric drill press, and electric hammer.
  • Choose the proper drill bit for many drilling applications.
  • Set up and use a variety of hand and bench grinders.
  • Safely use the proper grinder for various jobs.
  • Follow the necessary steps for proper tool maintenance.
  • Purchase the proper drilling tool for your application.

  • Contents
    Electric Drills; Drill Presses; Drill Bits; Hammer Drills and Rotary Hammers; Electric Grinders; Abrasives.

Power Cutting Tools

Course #: 186055
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
Power cutting tools fall into two categories: portable and stationary. Portable and stationary cutting tools perform many similar operations, but portable tools, carried easily by hand, are used most often at the job site. Stationary tools are used in workshops and on plant tools. Stationary saws range in size from small shop jigsaws to huge band saws used in paper mills to saw large trees into lumber. This unit introduces students to the most common portable power saws used in construction and repair work, namely circular, saber, jig-, and reciprocating saws, and the stationary cutting tools found in most maintenance and fabrication shops.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Identify the most common portable and stationary power saws.
  • Identify the various parts of a saw and explain how they work.
  • Discuss the types of cuts made by each type of saw.
  • Choose the most appropriate saw and blade for the type of work being done.
  • Recognize a portable circular saw, name its parts, and (with practice) operate it safely.
  • Select and (with practice) use the proper saw; saber saw, portable band saw, reciprocating saw, cut-out saw, cut-off saw, for a given application.
  • Operate (with practice) the stationary circular, radial, band and scroll saws safely.
  • Observe the various safety precautions when using power saws and stationary power tools.

  • Contents
    Power Saw Safety; Portable Power Saws; Stationary Circular Power Saws; Other Stationary Power Saws.

Pneumatic Hand Tools

Course #: 186056
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
Pneumatic tools are used in many areas of maintenance, construction, and production work. These tools harness the power of compressed air and convert this power to useful work. Compressed air can be a very powerful energy source. However, due to this power, you must be extremely careful when using these tools.
Pneumatic tools are normally made much heavier than standard-duty hand and power tools. You will notice this fact as soon as you lift an impact wrench or framing nailer. The cases of the tools are made intentionally heavy to contain the stresses of the impact hammers or piston and to absorb the normal day-to-day abuse that the tool takes. You have probably seen someone remove a tire's lug nuts with a pneumatic impact wrench. The operator picks up the wrench and blasts off four or five bolts. Next, the wrench is dropped the six inches or so to the floor while the operator's hands move to quickly grab the wheel and rim. Come back to this same shop a year later, and you will probably see the same wrench being used after thousands of tires have come and gone. The tool's case may be nicked and grooved, but if properly cleaned and lubricated, the tool could last for many thousand more tires.
This text discusses the selection, use and safe practices of using different types of pneumatic tools.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Describe the various pneumatic tools used for plant maintenance.
  • Identify and describe the safe use of impact, cutting, and grinding tools.
  • Explain how pneumatic hammers, nailers, and staplers are selected and used in a safe manner.
  • Describe the use of pneumatic assembly tools such as grinders, sanders, screwdrivers, and drills and how other types of production tools are selected and used.
  • Identify the proper procedures for pneumatic tool and system care.
  • Identify safe tool use procedures and how vibration and excess noise can cause bodily injury.

  • Contents
    Pneumatic Tools for Maintenance; Pneumatic Tools for Construction; Pneumatic Tools for Production and Assemble; Pneumatic Tool Care; Using Pneumatic Tools Safely.

Electricians' Tools

Course #: 006026
Duration: 10 hours
Course Prerequisites: Electrical Wiring Practices (086E02);
What Students Learn: Electricians' Equipment: Basic Hand Tools; Wire-Working Tools; Conduit-Working Tools; Power Tools; Knowledge as a Tool with Basic Introduction to the Metric System; Units of Electricity; Static Electricity; Electric Current, Measuring Instruments, and the Symbols and Terminology Used by Electricians.

Special Notes:

  • This updated course replaces, Electricians' Tools, course 4401.
  • This study unit is primarily appropriate for residential and commercial electricians and electrical contractors.

Tool Grinding and Sharpening

Course #: 186057
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
Trades people must keep their hand tools in good working condition. They must follow a regular maintenance schedule for servicing them. Tools with cutting edges must have the edges sharpened. Other tools must be trued and shaped for their special uses. Screwdrivers, chisels, punches, snips, and twist drills are shaped or sharpened on a grinding machine.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Use a grinding machine, following all safety procedures.
  • Hone or whet tools with an oilstone.
  • Explain the procedures for grinding metal stock.
  • Compare the methods used in grinding screwdrivers, snips, chisels, plane irons, and twist drills.

  • Contents
    Tool Sharpening Equipment; Grinding and Sharpening Procedures.

Woodworking Hand Tools

Course #: 186058
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
A person who does not really know the workings of industry might think that hand tools are not used that much any more. That is not so; in a maintenance job, trades people will use hand tools to do many different tasks. Hand tools are necessary for superior craftsmanship, and ideal for many maintenance operations. With hand tools, you supply the power and guide the tool.
This study unit focuses on the basic hand tools used when working with wood. Which woodworking hand tool you use will depend on the work you are doing. Often the same job can be done equally well with different tools.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Distinguish between the types of hand saws and use them correctly.
  • Bore and drill holes in wood.
  • Explain the differences between planes and use planes effectively.
  • Use abrasive tools correctly.

  • Contents
    Layout Tools, Saws, and Hammers; Wood Boring and Removal Tools.

Routers, Power Planers, and Sanders

Course #: 186059
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
The correct use of routers, power planers, and sanders will be important to trades people in your maintenance job. You will cut contours and irregular shapes on both edges and surfaces with the portable router; or you will plane doors, lumber, and assembled work accurately with the portable power planer. Trades people will also finish wood, metal, and plastic, and prepare surfaces for painting with power sanders.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Operate (with practice) the portable router.
  • Outline the procedures for using a portable power planer.
  • Recognize by sight the common stationary power sanders and compare their operation.
  • Choose the right portable sander for a given job, and operate (with practice) the portable belt sander.

  • Contents
    Routers; The Portable Power Planner; Power Sanders and Sanding Operations.

Jacks, Hoists, and Pullers

Course #: 186060
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
Maintenance work involves hoisting or lifting and moving machines, and other heavy loads. A new machine may have to be moved in, and installed on its foundation; a broken machine may have to be hoisted and taken to the maintenance area for repair. For such work, trades people will need hoisting equipment, plus certain accessories, such as rope and chain slings. Therefore, it is important for trainees to be familiar with the common types of hoisting equipment and slings.
In maintenance work, you will often have to remove parts, such as gears and bearings, from an assembly. Pullers are very useful tools for such purposes. The commonly used pullers are of the jaw and push types.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Identify the many forms of jacks and hoists.
  • Safely operate jacks and hoists.
  • Understand the construction details of fiber ropes, wire ropes, and chains.
  • Properly use and maintain fiber-rope, wire-rope, and chain slings.
  • Properly use jaw and push pullers.

  • Contents
    Jacks; Hoists; Fiber Ropes; Wire Ropes; Hoisting Chains; Pullers.

Preventive Maintenance

Course #: 286085
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
The purpose of a preventive maintenance program is to locate possible machine or equipment faults before the machine fails.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Describe the function of inspection and scheduled maintenance as the basis of preventive maintenance.
  • Explain why preventive maintenance is performed and how it's scheduled.
  • Identify those within industry who should be part of preventive maintenance planning and execution.
  • Discuss the causes, effects, and goals of a successful preventive maintenance program.
  • Explain how a computerized preventive maintenance program can be developed and implemented.

  • Contents
    Introduction To Preventive Maintenance; Why Perform Preventive Maintenance?; Scheduling Preventive Maintenance; PM Program Personnel; PM Program Goals; Computerized PM Programs.

Preventive Maintenance Techniques

Course #: 286086
Duration: 5 hours
Course Prerequisites: Trades Safety: Getting Started (186001); Basic Industrial Math (Block X21); Practical Measurements (Block X22);
What Students Learn: Preview
How to implement a preventive maintenance (PM) program is just as important as the why and when of such a program. It doesn't pay to create a well thought out and scheduled PM program only to have the lubrication, inspection, or repair tasks performed improperly. The objective of this unit is to show you how to perform these tasks safely and properly. This will include showing you typical PM tasks as they are performed on common industrial equipment.
Objectives
When a student completes this study unit, he and she will be able to:

  • Explain how to inspect and properly maintain a belt, chain, and gearbox power transmission system.
  • Discuss why proper alignment is necessary when operating a power transmission system.
  • List the steps needed to properly maintain an AC or DC motor.
  • Explain how to perform a start-up or bump test of a motor.
  • Describe how to perform PM tasks on pneumatic systems.
  • Describe how to maintain both floor and elevated conveyor systems.
  • Identify the types of elevators and vertical lifts in your plant and the proper PM procedures for this equipment.
  • Explain how to maintain liquid and vacuum pump systems.
  • Describe how to perform a basic alignment of in-line shafts.
  • List the proper PM procedures for electronic controllers and robot systems.

  • Contents
    PM Of Power Transmission Systems; PM Of Electric Motors And Controllers; PM Of Pneumatic Systems; PM Of Conveyors; PM Of Vertical Lifts; PM Of Vacuum And Fluid Pumps; PM Of Electronic Controllers; PM Of Robots.

Bench Work, Part 3

Course #: 5004C
Duration: 10 hours
What Students Learn: Fitting Practice; Tolerance, Allowance, Clearance, and Fit; Babbitting; Hack Saw; Band Saw Machine; Clamping Work for Sawing; Soldering; Soft Solder; Soldering Copper; Sweat Soldering; Brazing; Hand Solders and Fluxes; Torch Brazing; Induction Brazing; Furnace Brazing.

Reading Prints and Schematics

Course #: Block X25
Duration: 96 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn: This block introduces the trainee to the various types of prints, drawings, and schematics used in an industrial environment. The trainee will learn how to read and interpret the different types of standard symbols and abbreviations found on these drawings. This block will benefit trainees entering any industrial trade. Each study unit contains a progress examination.
Components: Dimensioning (186040); Tolerancing and Symbols (186041); Sectional Views and Simplified Drafting (186042); Introduction to Print Reading (186039); Building Drawings (186043); Electrical Drawings and Circuits (186044); Electronic Drawings (186045); Hydraulic and Pneumatic Drawings (186046); Piping: Drawings, Materials, and Parts (186047); Welding Symbols (186048); Sheet Metal Basics (186049); Sketching (186050);
Special Notes: This updated course replaces Reading prints and Schematics, Block X05. Each study unit contains a progress examination.

Introduction to Print Reading

Course #: 186039
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Identify the various kinds of lines used on drawings.
  • Compare and contrast the various types of drawings.
  • Relate the information given in the title block and bill of material to the drawing.
  • Define different types of scales used on drawings.

Dimensioning

Course #: 186040
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Identify the height, width, and length dimensions of a drawing.
  • Interpret dimensions on angles, arcs, fillets, rounds, holes, and chamfers.
  • Interpret the surface finish symbols for roughness, waviness, and lay.

Tolerancing and Symbols

Course #: 186041
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Tell the position method from the bracket method of dual dimensioning.
  • Identify the three general classes of fits.
  • Interpret unilateral and bilateral tolerances.
  • Interpret the various symbols and notations used on drawings.

Sectional Views and Simplified Drafting

Course #: 186042
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Tell one type of section from another.
  • Interpret the various types of sections.
  • Interpret drawings using simplified drafting methods.

Building Drawings

Course #: 186043
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Identify the various kinds of building drawings.
  • Compare elevations, plans, and sections.
  • Match the symbols used on drawings with the various building materials they stand for.
  • Interpret the explanations and abbreviations used on building drawings.
  • Read steel and concrete structural drawings.

Electrical Drawings and Circuits

Course #: 186044
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Identify electrical construction drawings, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
  • Interpret various electrical symbols.
  • Read standard abbreviations used in electrical diagrams.
  • Tell if a diagram is a block diagram, a schematic diagram, or a wiring diagram.
  • Compare closed circuits, open circuits, grounded circuits, and short circuits.

Electronic Drawings

Course #: 186045
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Identify and interpret the various electronics symbols used on drawings.
  • Identify and interpret the various types of drawings used in the electronics field.

Hydraulic and Pneumatic Drawings

Course #: 186046
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Graphic symbols for lines, flows, and reservoirs.
  • Pump and valve symbols.
  • Fluid circuit and air circuit components.
  • Graphical, circuit, cutaway, pictorial, and combined diagrams.

Piping: Drawings, Materials, and Parts

Course #: 186047
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Define the term "piping drawings."
  • Recognize plans, elevations, and sectional views.
  • Identify a view by its placement on a drawing.
  • List what working drawings include.
  • Evaluate whether or not a freehand sketch serves its intended purpose.
  • Interpret the standard symbols and abbreviations and "read" the color coding on piping in industrial and power plants.
  • Interpret dimensions marked on piping drawings.

Welding Symbols

Course #: 186048
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Identify by name the welding processes commonly used in plant maintenance work.
  • Name the best welding processes for a given welding job.
  • Identify by sight, the basic joint and groove designs used in welding.
  • Identify by sight the basic types of welds and describe their uses.
  • Interpret the weld symbols most often found in the drawings used in plant maintenance work.

Sheet Metal Basics

Course #: 186049
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Identify sheet metal of known material and thickness by page and weight.
  • Figure allowances for bends, circumferences, seams, locks, and edges.
  • Know when and where to cut relief radi.
  • Catalog and identify by sight the various seams, locks, and edges.
  • Name and describe the major tools and machines used in sheet metal working.
  • Explain how large fittings can be constructed.
  • List the characteristics of PVC and PVF sheet and laminates.

Sketching

Course #: 186050
Duration: 8 hours
Course Prerequisites: Basic Industrial Math (Block X21);
What Students Learn:

  • Use the right techniques for sketching straight and curved lines, and circles and arcs.
  • Draw, with practice, multiview sketches of simple objects that accurately show all the details of the objects.
  • Draw dimension sketches of simple machine parts with enough detail that parts can be made.
  • Draw, with practice, realistic sketches of objects that have simple rectangular and circular shapes.

Blueprint Reading Skills Explained

Course #: VB04XX
Duration: 1.08 hours
What Students Learn: When interpreted properly, blueprints reveal the essential information needed to complete a manufacturing process. Students will learn how to interpret what they see and understand the specific meanings of all the lines and symbols on the "prints".
Components: View and Line Interpretation (VB0401); Dimensions and Tolerance Specifications (VB0402); Auxiliary Print Information and Geometric Tolerancing (VB0403); Welding Symbols (VB0404);

Electrician Training worker
View Programs
From foundational skills to advanced career training, we offer over 3,000 courses aligned with 35+ occupational pathways.
Man Auto Worker
Download Case Study
Learn how UAW-Ford filled its skills gap with Penn Foster.
Construction Workers
Download Report
Discover exclusive insights on training and development from skilled trades leaders.
TOP