Level 4 Basic Pneumatic Control Systems

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.

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 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.

Individuals who successfully finish this course are encouraged to join Electro-Pneumatic Control Systems Level 4 course.