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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Determine flow characteristics of polymer compound
   • Calculate and describe shear and shear rates
   • Distinguish between Newtonian and non-Newtonian flow
   • Identify the characteristics of polymer structures which influence flow
   • Identify the relationships between density, temperature and viscosity for polymers
   • Identify the flow characteristics of a polymer compound based on its structure and temperature
2. Calculate flow rate of polymer compound
   • Use equipment dimensions and data to determine shear rate of polymers through that equipment
   • Calculate output from equipment using viscosity curves and shear rate diagrams
   • Calculate mean velocity at critical points in a process
   • Determine the characteristic curves for the screws and dies in processing equipment, and the resultant operating point for the system

Range Statement

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.
Regulatory framework	The latest version of all legislation, regulations, industry codes of practice and Australian/international standards, or the version specified by the local regulatory authority, must be used. Applicable legislation, regulations, standards and codes of practice include: health, safety and environmental (HSE) legislation, regulations and codes of practice relevant to the workplace, materials and processes being used and products being made Australian/international standards relevant to the materials being used and products being made any relevant licence and certification requirements. All operations to which this unit applies are subject to stringent HSE requirements, which may be imposed through state/territory or federal legislation, and these must not be compromised at any time. Where there is an apparent conflict between performance criteria and such requirements the legislative requirements take precedence.
Procedures	All operations must be performed in accordance with relevant procedures. Procedures are written, verbal, visual, computer-based or in some other form, and include one or any combination of: test procedures technical specifications technical drawings emergency procedures work instructions standard operating procedures (SOPs) safe work method statements (SWMS) formulas/recipes batch sheets temporary instructions any similar instructions provided for the smooth running of the plant.
Hazards	Hazards must be identified and controlled. Identifying hazards requires consideration of: hazardous products and materials smoke, dust or other atmospheric hazards other hazards that might arise.

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Performance Evidence

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and demonstrate the ability to:

read and interpret test results, technical information, equipment specifications and instruments/control panels

determine flow characteristics of polymer compound based on its structure and temperature

calculate the flow of polymers through the processing equipment and its components

perform complex algebraic equations, non-linear functions and simultaneous equations

interpret non-linear graphs.

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Knowledge Evidence

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge relevant to their job sufficient to fulfil their job role, including knowledge of:

principles of rheology, how rheological properties vary with temperature and how they impact on process efficiency and equipment design

Newtonian and non-Newtonian flow

shear force and shear rate calculations

output calculations

density/temperature/viscosity relationships and calculations

organisation procedures relevant to the work environment/job role

hierarchy of control

hazards that may arise in the job/work environment and:

their possible causes

potential consequences

appropriate risk controls.

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