Application
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to safely produce one or two colour semi-automatic screen prints.
It applies to individuals working under direct supervision in the printing and graphic arts industry. They perform mainly routine tasks such as monitoring, adjusting and cleaning equipment, selecting appropriate products and ensuring set processes are followed in the use of a semi-automatic printing machine.
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 Load substrate | 1.1 Substrate is checked against job specifications with any irregularities reported and rectified 1.2 Substrate position and stencil registration are adjusted according to job specifications |
2 Apply ink to screen | 2.1 Ink is applied to screen in quantity required for screen size 2.2 Equipment is kept clean and spills are minimised 2.3 Colour is mixed and ink is checked against job specifications |
3 Produce proof print | 3.1 Proof print is run off and checked for colour, strength, registration, adhesion, clarity, gloss level, drying or curing, artwork detail and other technical aspects according to job specifications 3.2 Adjustments are made as required 3.3 Appropriate approval to commence production is sought prior to commencement 3.4 Belt speed and energy required are set to achieve desired properties and printing speeds are adjusted to suit |
4 Run job and monitor print quality | 4.1 Printing speed production is adjusted to maximise quality and output 4.2 Print quality is continuously evaluated and adjusted as required 4.3 Effects of ink alterations during run are monitored and appropriate action taken according to manufacturer and job specifications 4.4 Workplace documentation is completed as required 4.5 Curing and drying are constantly monitored and adjusted according to manufacturer and job specifications |
5 Carry out routine user maintenance | 5.1 Equipment is cleaned according to manufacturer specifications 5.2 Fault conditions are identified and reported according to enterprise procedures |
6 Stack production output | 6.1 Output is checked for thorough drying or curing before stacking 6.2 Job status and progress are checked against job specifications and any necessary action is taken |
7 Shut down machine | 7.1 Excess ink, screens, squeegees and flood coaters are removed and cleaned according to work health and safety (WHS) requirements and manufacturer specifications 7.2 Waste materials are disposed of according to manufacturer specifications, regulatory requirements and enterprise procedures 7.3 Equipment and surrounding areas are cleaned according to manufacturer specifications and enterprise procedures |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
safely produce TWO different one or two colour print runs using a semi-automatic machine according to manufacturer, job and enterprise specifications
demonstrate use of control, monitoring and data entry systems.
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:
identify the appropriate substrate, finished size, length of run and order of colours from the job specifications
describe the correct placement of image on the sheet and the significance of substrate guides or lays in preparation for printing
describe the ink selection system
discuss the set parameters of belt speed and head units
outline health and safety concerns when using a semi-automatic printing machine
identify the type of squeegee or flood coater and squeegee angle used
outline the process of producing a proof print and what needs to be checked on the proof
explain the process of the continuous monitoring of print quality and the drying or curing of ink before stacking
explain the purpose of workplace documentation
outline the procedure required for disposing of unused ink and solvent rags
describe the frequency and type of maintenance that should be performed on the printing machine
identify required manuals, safety and other documentation and briefly outline the relevant information in each source.
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 a semi-automatic printing machine.
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, 1.2, 2.3, 2.4, 3.1, 4.3-4.5, 5.1, 5.2, 6.2, 7.1-7.3 | Evaluates and establishes job requirements from relevant information Identifies correct process from enterprise procedures, manufacturers and suppliers |
Writing | 1.1, 4.4, 5.2 | Completes required details accurately using enterprise specific and factual information |
Oral Communication | 1.1, 3.3, 5.2 | Discusses faults and any remedial action with supervisor Checks the progress and quality of the job with supervisor |
Numeracy | 2.1, 3.4, 4.1, 4.5 | Uses simple mathematical calculations to determine curing and drying times, required supplies and optimum belt speeds |
Navigate the world of work | 7.1-7.3 | Takes personal responsibility for adherence to legal and regulatory requirements with specific reference to safety Complies with organisational policies and procedures relevant to own role |
Interact with others | 3.3 | Contributes to specific activities requiring joint responsibility and accountability |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 4.1-4.3, 4.5, 5.2, 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 specific functions of some common digital tools used in work contexts |
Sectors
Screen printing