This unit applies to the preparation and performance of eddy current testing on fabrications, structures and components across a wide range of industries. It includes wheel bead seat, production line, tube production line and conductivity measurement methods. The work can relate to scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activities using general tools and specific eddy current testing equipment as specified in maintenance documentation, testing procedures or operator instructions.

Actual and potential defects are to be considered, together with ongoing abnormalities in fabrications, components and structures. Eddy current testing is performed on critical component or structural zones, and may require re-assessment of competency at regular intervals in accordance with relevant standards. All testing must be completed with particular attention to personal safety and OH&S regulations. Certification against Australian standards may be achieved where assessment in this unit of competency is carried out in conjunction with an examining authority as described in ISO 9712.

Materials and chemicals which are subject to codes and regulations - for example, chemicals, explosives, solvents, dangerous materials, acids, or noxious waste products - are subject to safe work habits and must be stored and used in accordance with safe work practices.

This unit should not be selected when Unit MEM24006B (Perform eddy current testing) has already been selected.

Where tests require the interpretation of drawings, Unit MEM09002B (Interpret technical drawings) should also be selected.

Where power tools are required, Unit MEM18002B (Use power tools/hand held operations) should also be selected.

Band: A

Unit Weight: 2

Path 1

MEM18001C

Use hand tools

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Prepare inspection areas for basic eddy current testing

1.1. Inspection areas are cleaned and prepared for testing using appropriate procedures and materials.

1.2. Preparation processes are carried out in accordance with the relevant procedures and OH&S requirements.

1.3. Inspection areas are visually assessed and obvious discontinuities are identified.

2. Perform basic eddy current testing

2.1. Nominated test is identified from standard operating procedures.

2.2. Test equipment is prepared in accordance with standards and/or procedures.

2.3. Eddy current test procedure is carried out in accordance with relevant work instructions and OH&S requirements.

2.4. Eddy current test equipment is maintained and stored in accordance with standard operating procedures and OH&S requirements.

3. Report the results of basic eddy current test(s)

3.1. Basic indications are checked and defects are identified in accordance with enterprise standards and/or procedures.

3.2. Basic indications are confirmed in accordance with enterprise standards and/or procedures.

3.3. Test results are reported in accordance with enterprise standards and/or procedures.

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

interpreting and following procedures

identifying inspection areas

identifying discontinuities and defects

selecting appropriate testing techniques, equipment and procedures

documenting and reporting

assessing risk

reading and interpreting routine information on written job instructions, specifications and standard operating procedures. May include drawings

performing calculations using formulae

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

cleaning and preparation processes

procedures and OH&S requirements in relation to the preparation process

visual inspection

eddy current instrument set-up

probe selection

established assessment procedures and techniques

types of discontinuities and their consequences

procedure for carrying out basic eddy current testing

system verification checks necessary to carry out basic eddy current testing

testing and compliance standards (enterprise specific)

standard recording and reporting formats

standard defects and comparative techniques

basic principles of electricity, magnetism, electromagnetism and eddy current testing

basic electrical principles

test principles

overview of factors affecting eddy current response

basic metallurgy

limitations of eddy current testing

hazards and safety precautions associated with eddy current testing

basic maintenance and storage procedures for testing equipment

common basic defects (these are industry-specific and relevant workplace defects should be chosen)

methods/procedures for reporting test results

use and application of personal protective equipment

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 perform basic eddy current testing. 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 on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then 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 operating eddy current testing equipment and applying basic testing procedures in a specific range of industrial applications, 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 techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. 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.

Preparation processes

Surface cleaning and drying

Unit sector

Non-destructive testing

This unit contains employability skills.