Google Links

Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Research and identify the range of basic mechanical scientific principles and techniques relevant to mechanical and manufacturing engineering
  2. Select basic mechanical scientific principles and techniques relevant to particular mechanical and manufacturing engineering applications
  3. Apply the relevant basic mechanical scientific principles and techniques appropriately
  4. Quote the results of the application of the basic mechanical scientific principles and basic techniques correctly

Required Skills

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in

selecting appropriate basic mechanical scientific principles have been chosen to suit specific applications

selecting appropriate basic mechanical techniques and associated technologies software and hardware to suit specific applications

applying basic mechanical scientific principles to particular engineering situations

applying and manipulating appropriate formulas for applications involving engineering calculations

applying appropriate calculations to engineering situations

checking the validity of equations is using dimensional analysis

applying basic mechanical techniques and associated technologies software and hardware in a manner appropriate to the application and identified scientific principles

referring solutions to the original aim of the application

quoting solutions in appropriate units using appropriate significant figures

quoting limitations of solutions due to assumptions scientific principles and techniques used

presenting solutions referring to the original aim of the application

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of

basic mechanical scientific principles

limitations of selected basic scientific principles

basic mechanical techniques and related technologies software and hardware associated with implementing scientific principles in mechanical engineering solutions

the limitations of basic techniques and associated technologies software and hardware

the applicability and limitations of basic mechanical scientific principles

the applicability and limitations of basic mechanical techniques and associated technologies software and hardware

appropriateness of calculations

fundamental and derived quantities

common systems of units

the procedure for converting between systems of units

common prefixes used with units and their values

the procedure for carrying out dimensional analysis

the concept of significant figures

the uncertainty of computations based on experimental data

the procedures for determining the significance of figures in calculations

the procedures for estimating errors in derived quantities

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria required skills and knowledge range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to apply basic scientific principles and techniques in mechanical engineering situations

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria including required knowledge and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job off the job or a combination of both on and off the job Where assessment occurs off the job that is the candidate is not in productive work then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety quality communication materials handling recording and reporting associated with applying basic scientific principles and techniques in mechanical engineering situations or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit

Method of assessment

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid sufficient current and authentic Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation supervisors reports project work samples and questioning Questioning techniques should not require language literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency The candidate must have access to all tools equipment materials and documentation required The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures product and manufacturing specifications codes standards manuals and reference materials

Guidance information for assessment


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Sources of information

Reference texts, manufacturer's catalogues and industrial magazines, websites, use of phone, email and fax information gathering.

Basic mechanical scientific techniques and principles

Candidates should apply appropriate basic techniques supported by their mathematical skills and introductory knowledge of scientific principles to design, manufacturing and commissioning related tasks and projects. The applications may require the use of one or two basic mechanical scientific principles together with a fundamental mathematical calculation leading to process, resources and system choices from a limited range of options.

Basic techniques include basic hand and power tool operations, machining, fitting, welding, moulding, fabricating, wiring and programming techniques.

Mechanical engineering

The engineering discipline concerned with the conceptual development, research, design, manufacture, implementation, installation, commissioning and maintenance of mechanical products, processes, systems or services for converting energy into power and motion, materials into product and components into machines and systems for domestic, industrial, public or private services, entertainment and military applications.