Level 4 Electro-Pneumatic Control Systems

The programme is suitable for technician/operation staff with level 3/4 qualifications (or equivalent industry experience) and apprentices who need retraining as electro-pneumatic systems technicians. Programme learning outcomes are:

• Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a single-acting cylinder.
• Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a double-acting cylinder.
• Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a 3/2-way solenoid valve.
• Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a double solenoid valve.
• Be able to select solenoid valves based on the specified requirements.
• Be able to recognise and sketch the various types of actuations for directional control valves.
• Be able to convert solenoid valves.
• Be able to explain and set up direct actuation.
• Be able to explain and set up indirect actuation.
• Become familiar with logic operations and be able to set them up.
• Become familiar with various types of end-position control and learn to select the appropriate type.
• Become familiar with latching circuits with varying performance features.
• Be able to explain and set up an electrical latching circuit with dominant shutdown signal.
• Be able to set up a pressure-dependent control system.
• Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of magnetic proximity switches.
• Become familiar with displacement-step diagrams and learn to create them for specific problems.
• Be able to implement sequence control with two cylinders.
• Be able to detect and eliminate errors in simple electro-pneumatic control systems.
• Be able to investigate PLC Technology.
• Become familiar with the internal architecture of PLCs and their application.
• Be able to explore the typical input and output devices used with PLCs.
• Become familiar with basic programming techniques used with PLCs.
• Be able to develop PLC systems to solve engineering problems.
• Become familiar with how are used in various industrial applications.

The development of the learning outcomes is promoted through the following teaching and learning methods:

Attendees will experience a range of learning strategies during the course. The course tutor will use a variety of teaching and learning methods. These may include:

• On-campus lectures and tutorial sessions
• Video content (typically short 20-minute max. videos to introduce or develop topics within the subject)
• Collaborative learning between attendees facilitated through face-to-face workshops.
• Workshops are used to enable attendees to work on state-of-the-art lab equipment. They also provide good opportunities for developing team-working and communication skills as well as individual skills.

In the ever-evolving landscape of industrial technology, the mastery of electro-pneumatic control systems remains a fundamental cornerstone for technicians and operation staff. With qualifications at level 3/4 or equivalent industry experience, individuals are poised to embark on a journey through the realm of electro-pneumatic, a discipline essential to the smooth functioning of countless industrial processes.

We are committed to creating educational opportunities for people from a variety of backgrounds and situations. If you have been out of formal education for some time, and/or you do not have the qualifications stated, we might still be able to consider your application and offer you a range of support. We are here to help. Please get in touch to find out more.

Individuals who successfully finish this course are encouraged to join Introduction to Automation Level 4 course.