Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to safely select and prepare screens for printing using appropriate equipment and procedures.
It applies to individuals working under direct supervision and performing mainly routine tasks.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements 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 Select frame | 1.1 Frame is selected according to job specifications 1.2 Quality, type and finish of frame are specified |
2 Prepare frame | 2.1 Frame surface is appropriately prepared free of imperfections to receive mesh 2.2 Tools and equipment used in frame preparation are suitable to achieve standard indicated in job specifications |
3 Select mesh | 3.1 Required mesh type is selected according to job specifications 3.2 Imperfections and flaws are identified and appropriate remedial action is taken 3.3 Mesh is measured and cut from bulk supply to meet screen specifications with minimum wastage |
4 Stretch and fix mesh | 4.1 Mesh is positioned in tensioning equipment at correct angle according to job specifications 4.2 Tension is set and applied according to job specifications 4.3 Tension is checked according to manufacturer or supplier specifications 4.4 Mesh is pre-stretched prior to fixing and mesh is fixed to frame according to frame construction requirements 4.5 Chemicals are mixed for application according to manufacturer specifications 4.6 Screen is removed from apparatus after appropriate curing |
5 Convert mesh | 5.1 Chemicals are selected for conversion of mesh according to manufacturer or supplier specifications 5.2 Chemicals are applied to effect conversion according to manufacturer or supplier specifications and to work health and safety (WHS) requirements |
6 Store screen | 6.1 Screens are identified and labelled 6.2 Screens are stored in safe, clean and dry environment in subdued light |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
select TWO different screen frame types, either fixed or microchase, stretch and fix mesh as appropriate and prepare screen for stencil application, according to manufacturer and job specifications, enterprise procedures and work health and safety (WHS) requirements.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
explain why a frame is needed and how a particular frame is selected
list the tools needed to prepare the frame surface
describe what to look for to achieve a good surface for mesh adhesion
list different mesh types and explain what type of job each mesh type would be suited to
describe common flaws or imperfections in screen mesh, how to identify them and what to do about them
explain techniques used to minimise wastage when cutting mesh
explain the position that the mesh is placed in before tensioning
explain the methods of pre-stretching the mesh prior to securing it
describe how tension is measured
describe the various methods of fixing mesh to frame
identify the pre-tensioning techniques that can be used
describe the methods for converting screen mesh chemically and mechanically
explain the method used to identify the mesh on a screen
describe the ideal conditions for storing screens
identify manuals, safety and other documentation relevant to this task, where they are kept and the information included in these documents.
Assessment Conditions
Gather evidence to demonstrate consistent performance in conditions that are safe and replicate the workplace. Noise levels, production flow, interruptions and time variances must be typical of those experienced in the screen printing field of work and include access to:
chemicals
tools and equipment
mesh
frames.
Assessors must satisfy NVR/AQTF assessor requirements.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Reading | 1.1, 2.2, 3.1, 4.1-4.5, 5.1, 6.1 | Recognises and interprets textual information to determine and adhere to requirements |
Writing | 1.2, 6.1 | Uses clear, specific and industry related terminology to legibly and correctly complete workplace documentation |
Numeracy | 3.3, 4.1, 4.5 | Uses mathematical formulae to calculate measurements, ratios, scale and angles |
Navigate the world of work | 5.2, 6.2 | Takes some personal responsibility for adherence to legal and regulatory requirements with specific reference to safety Complies with all organisational policies and procedures relevant to own role |
Get the work done | 1.1, 2.1, 2.2, 3.1-3.3, 4.2-4.4, 4.6, 5.1, 6.1, 6.2 | Follows clearly defined instructions and sequencing and monitors own progress for the task Responds to predictable problems and implements standard or logical solutions Takes responsibility for routine low-impact decisions within familiar situations Understands the purpose and some specific functions of common digital tools used in work contexts |
Sectors
Screen printing