This unit applies to the production of sealed anodised films on aluminium and its alloys. Films may be clear or coloured. Colouring is produced by dyeing or by 'in-bath' processes. Applications include electrical, decorative, mechanical and architectural purposes.

Band: A

Unit Weight: 2

Path 1

MEM08002C

Pre-treat work for subsequent surface coating

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Perform a series of anodising steps

1.1. All steps are carried out in the correct sequence to standard operating procedures.

1.2. Masking techniques are correctly applied, where required.

1.3. Contact marks and shielding are minimised.

2. Assess preparation of work for correct jigging/loading

2.1. Work is correctly connected for the required current flow and minimum contact marks and shielding.

2.2. All incorrectly loaded work is rejected.

3. Anodise work by a series of treatment steps

3.1. All steps are carried out in the correct sequence to standard operating procedures.

4. Seal or dye and seal anodised work

4.1. All steps on work are carried out in the correct sequence to standard operating procedures.

5. Monitor and control operating parameters

5.1. Process parameters are maintained within specified limits.

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

reading and following routine and familiar information on standard operating procedures

following all steps in the anodising process

applying the correct masking materials and techniques

minimising contact marks and shielding

correctly connecting the work to the required electrical current

identifying incorrectly loaded work

maintaining process parameters within specified limits

following verbal instructions

orally reporting routine information

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

process for anodising aluminium

materials, techniques and procedures for masking materials during anodising

causes of contact marks and shielding during the anodising process

procedures for minimising contact marks and shielding

procedures for connecting the work to the required electrical current

the electrical current required for the anodising process

methods for correctly loading work

examples of incorrectly loaded work

reasons for rejecting incorrectly loaded work

steps to be carried out in the seal/dye and seal process

procedures and reasons for monitoring and maintaining the process parameters within the specified limits

hazards and control measures associated with anodising operations, including housekeeping

use and application of personal protective equipment

safe work practices and procedures

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 produce clear and coloured and sealed anodised films on aluminium and its alloys for decorative, mechanical and architectural purposes. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

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. Where assessment occurs off the job, i.e. the candidate is not in productive work, 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 anodising aluminium 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, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit. 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

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.

Anodising steps

Pre treatment, anodising, dyeing, sealing

Masking techniques

Taping, waxing

Process parameters

Temperature, current density, time

Unit sector

Surface finishing

This unit contains employability skills.