Assessor Resource
PMAOPS340B
Operate cryogenic processes
Assessment tool
Version 1.0
Issue Date: May 2024
In this competency the operations technician would have a good understanding of the principles of refrigeration systems to a level that allows the operations technician to make adjustments to the system to achieve the required level of performance. The operations technician would typically understand:
different types of refrigerants and the relationship between vapour pressure and temperature
operating principles of each component of a large refrigeration system
methods of controlling refrigerant temperature
the objectives of refrigeration control.
In a typical application, the operations technician would monitor the operation of the refrigeration system and:
make adjustments at the control panel/computer system to maintain the required operating parameters
carry out minor maintenance in accordance with procedures
identify situations requiring maintenance or repair outside the operator's skill level.
The operations technician would also be responsible for starting up and shutting down the system, and making relevant checks on all parts of the system, including safety systems. In particular, the operations technician would identify hazardous situations arising from a malfunction of the system and take appropriate timely remedial action. At this level, the operations technician would also recognise and solve problems with the refrigeration system. This includes recognising indications of potential problems and taking appropriate and timely remedial action to ensure minimal loss of production time.
This competency also covers identifying and controlling hazards related to large refrigeration systems.
This competency covers the skills needed to operate and maintain complex refrigeration/cryogenic systems that involve multi-stage centrifugal compressors (or similar) and associated equipment, including computer control and monitoring systems.
It does not cover small packaged refrigeration systems, which are covered by MSAPMOPS100A Use equipment.
You may want to include more information here about the target group and the purpose of the assessments (eg formative, summative, recognition)