Overview
The basic pneumatics control systems CPD programme focuses on the underpinning engineering concepts that contribute to current industrial practices in pneumatic control systems. The programme provides attendees with the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience using our state-of-the-art laboratories whilst consolidating knowledge through the delivery of interactive theory sessions. Our purpose-built engineering laboratories house a wide range of industry-standard training equipment including Pneumatics, Mechatronics, Robotics, PLCs, Fluid Processing and a unique Industry 4.0 Smart Factory training system enabling the study of the full range of industrial concepts.
The programme offers a learning experience which has the attendees at its centre with the team focused on providing a friendly and supportive learning environment. The programme is designed in a way that progressively prepares attendees with the knowledge and ability to analyse, comprehend and manage basic pneumatics resulting from the fundamentals of pneumatics to the function and use of pneumatic equipment. This flexibility will be a significant asset for the attendees, because of the continuous evolution of the technologies in the pneumatic control systems sector.
Course Structure
The programme is suitable for technician/operation staff with level 3/4 qualifications (or equivalent industry experience) and apprenticeships who need retraining as 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 3/2-way valve.
- Be able to recognise and sketch the various types of actuations for directional control valves.
- Be able to explain and set up direct actuation.
- Be able to analyse and evaluate circuits.
- 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 5/2-way valve.
- Be able to explain and set up indirect actuation.
- Become familiar with the mode of operation of a 5/2-way valve with pneumatic actuation.
- Become familiar with the difference between a signalling element and a control element.
- Be able to measure pressure in pneumatic control systems.
- Be able to differentiate between the various types of flow control and use them in accordance with specifications.
- Be able to adjust cylinder advancing and retracting speeds.
- Become familiar with one type of signal storage in pneumatic control systems.
- Be able to explain and implement AND/OR/NOT logic operations.
- Become familiar with one option for end-position sensing in cylinders.
- Be able to combine logic operations.
- Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a magnetic proximity switch.
- Be able to differentiate between 5/2-way valves and to select and use them in accordance with specifications.
- Be able to further develop existing circuits.
- Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a pressure sequence valve.
- Be able to set up pressure-dependent control systems.
- Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a pressure regulator.
- Be able to analyse existing circuits and optimise them in accordance with specifications.
- Become familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a time delay valve.
- Be able to set up circuits with oscillating motion.
- Be able to use time delay valves in accordance with specific constraints.
- Be able to analyse and set up circuits with two cylinders.
Assessment Methods
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.
Progression
Individuals who successfully finish this course are encouraged to join Electro-Pneumatic Control Systems Level 4 course.
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Dates for this course
No dates are scheduled at the moment. Register your interest and we'll be in touch as soon as the next course is set.
Entry requirements
What you’ll need
In the ever-evolving landscape of industrial technology, the mastery of 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 pneumatics, 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.
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What it costs
£200.00
Additional costs
Your Tuition fees cover most costs associated with your course (including registration, tuition, and assessment).
There may be some extra costs that you might need to make, or choose to pay, for example:
- Books (you’ll have access to books from your module reading lists in the HE library, but you may wish to buy your own copies)
- Printing and photocopying
Where this course can take you
- Before you start
- This course Level 4
- Further study
Check you have what you need in the entry requirements.
Not sure? Talk to us and we will help you find the right starting point.
Careers it can lead to
- Engineering Technicians £39,700 a year
- Metal Working Production and Maintenance Fitters £37,800 a year
- Electrical and Electronics Technicians £31,000 a year
- Building and Civil Engineering Technicians £30,700 a year
See all 13 careers
- Science, Engineering and Production Technicians £35,100 a year
- Tool Makers, Tool Fitters and Markers-out £35,900 a year
- Electricians and Electrical Fitters £41,600 a year
With further study or experience
- Mechanical Engineers £46,400 a year
- Electronics Engineers £47,700 a year
- Engineering Professionals £41,400 a year
- Electrical Engineers £55,000 a year
- Production and Process Engineers £44,100 a year
- Civil Engineers £48,200 a year
Typical pay is the UK median for each job (Lightcast, October 2026).
Register your interest in this course
You’re enquiring about Level 4 Basic Pneumatic Control Systems
To ask about this course or book a place, get in touch with the team.
Call 01724 294125 or email enquiries@ucnl.ac.uk