Machinery and Equipment (Engineering 1)

This course develops your understanding of equipment, and ability to manage the selection, operation and maintenance of tools and machinery, with particular reference to professional gardening, agriculture and horticulture. Learn the use and operation of tools, equipment and machines to keep them running smoothly by yourself.

Course Summary

There are 8 lessons in this course:

• Engine Operation
• Hydraulics
• Machinery
• Hand Tools
• Power Tools
• Tractors
• Equipment Maintenance

Specific Workplace Requirements

HOW AN ENGINE WORKS

The Operating Cycle

In any internal combustion engine there are a number of essential parts there are arranged so that a basic series of events occur. This series of events is usually known as the operating cycle.

The internal combustion engine is a form of heat engine. Heat energy, produced by burning fuel within the engine, is changed into mechanical energy. Different types of fuel include petrol, vaporising oil (V.O) or diesel.  While different types of fuel are used in different types of equipment, this does not alter the basic operating cycle.

The essential parts of an engine are:

1. The cylinder – fuel is introduced into the cylinder for burning
2. The piston – this moves up and down within the cylinder
3. The cylinder head – this seals off the top of the cylinder
4. The crankshaft – this rotates
5. The connecting rod – connects the piston to the crankshaft
6. The inlet valve – allows entry of fuel into the cylinder
7. The exhaust valve – allows the exit of gases
8. A camshaft – this opens the valves
9. Valve springs – these close the valves
10. The flywheel – this is fitted to the crankshaft to help it rotate

Internal combustion engines work by a rapid series of explosions taking place when fuel and air are mixed together inside a cylinder chamber (or chambers) and ignited.

The fuel/mixture comes into the cylinder when the inlet valve or port is open, the valve or port then closes, and the mixture is compressed by the inward movement of the cylinder. The mixture is ignited by a spark from the spark plug (if the fuel is petrol or V.O). It expands rapidly and this expansion produces pressure that forces the piston out. This in turn causes the crankshaft to rotate. The rotation of the crank shaft forces the piston in and out of the cylinder. The momentum in the movement of the original engine part is aided by a weighted flywheel which returns it to its original position for the next explosion   which then forces it out again….and so on.

A Statement of Attainment in Machinery and Equipment from Courses Direct would be highly beneficial for a diverse range of individuals and professionals, including:

• Aspiring Machinery Operators:
  • Individuals looking to start a career in operating and managing machinery and equipment in various industries.
• Maintenance Technicians:
  • Technicians responsible for the maintenance and repair of machinery who seek to formalize and expand their skills.
• Construction Workers:
  • Construction professionals who need to operate heavy machinery and equipment safely and efficiently on job sites.
• Manufacturing Personnel:
  • Workers in manufacturing facilities who handle, operate, or maintain industrial machinery and equipment.
• Agricultural Workers:
  • Farmers and agricultural workers who use machinery for planting, harvesting, and other farming operations.
• Warehouse and Logistics Staff:
  • Employees in warehouses and logistics centers who operate forklifts, conveyor systems, and other material handling equipment.
• Health and Safety Officers:
  • Safety professionals responsible for ensuring the safe operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment in the workplace.
• Mechanical Engineers:
  • Engineers who design, analyze, and improve machinery and equipment, needing practical insights into operational aspects.
• Mining and Extraction Personnel:
  • Workers in mining and extraction industries who use specialized machinery for drilling, excavating, and processing.
• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners:
  • Entrepreneurs and business owners in sectors reliant on machinery and equipment, aiming to improve operational efficiency and safety.
• Technical Educators and Trainers:
  • Educators and trainers in vocational and technical fields who need to teach the operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment.
• Students and Recent Graduates:
  • Students and recent graduates in engineering, mechanics, and related fields who want to specialize in machinery and equipment operation and maintenance.

By obtaining a Statement of Attainment in Machinery and Equipment from Courses Direct, these individuals can enhance their technical skills, improve workplace safety, and open up new opportunities for career advancement in various industries reliant on machinery and equipment.