Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to install and commission irrigation pumps.
It applies to individuals who take responsibility for own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Plan and sequence installation tasks from instructions | 1.1 Obtain drawings and specifications 1.2 Plan and sequence tasks 1.3 Select tools and equipment and check for serviceability |
2. Source irrigation system requirements | 2.1 Determine location of pump 2.2 Identify pump base requirements 2.3 Identify, order and collect materials and equipment 2.4 Check materials and equipment for acceptable condition and compliance |
3. Install and commission pumping and flow control components | 3.1 Set out and construct pump base 3.2 Install pump and pump controls 3.3 Connect suction and discharge lines and flow control devices 3.4 Connect delivery and distribution components to pump 3.5 Conduct pressure testing of pumping system 3.6 Test pump |
4. Complete work | 4.1 Clear work area and dispose of, reuse or recycle materials 4.2 Clean, check, maintain and store tools and equipment 4.3 Restore work site to meet environmental requirements 4.4 Complete documentation |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
follow plans, charts and instructions
handle materials safely
identify and respond to operational problems
match pump output and flow rate to pipe diameter
monitor the performance of valves
open and close valves
organise equipment and materials for installation work
perform work-related calculations
position pumps and valves
prime and operate pumps
set out and prepare the site
use power tools and hand tools
weld in both poly and steel
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must explain:
advantages and disadvantages of each pump type
automatic pump switches including timers, pressure switches, irrigation controllers and flow switches
basic principles of hydraulics (flow vs. pressure), energy loss due to friction
characteristics and application of different valves, pipes and fittings including fixing and joining techniques and methods
discharge and flow rates
impellers, rotors, stators
installation procedures for irrigation pumps
properties of water including pressure and flow rates
pump components and their principles of operation
pump gauges and controls
pump performance and pressure testing
servicing requirements for pumps
types of pumps and their application in irrigation, such as centrifugal, vertical turbine, submersible and propeller
types of valves
types suitable as booster and floating pumps
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Irrigation (IRG)