Module Title:Plant Engineering
Language of Instruction:English
Credits: 10
NFQ Level:6
Module Delivered In No Programmes
Teaching & Learning Strategies: Conducted through lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions.
Module Aim: The aim of this module is to introduce the students to the basic principles of automation and give them an introduction to standard mechanical and electrical plant/equipment.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1 Describe the principle operation of standard compressors and ancillary equipment and construct pneumatic circuits using ISO RP68P (pneumatic) symbols and graphically represent basic pneumatic circuits.
LO2 Recognise basic engineering components such as pumps, valves and bearings and the application of each.Use of specific lubricants and the correct disposal of same in line with environmental standards
LO3 Describe the operation of modern S.I. and C.I. Engines and the use of VVT (Variable Valve Timing),recognize modern transmission system, and identify various standard components.
LO4 Describe the principle operation of hydraulic pumps and valves and construct simple hydraulic circuits.
LO5 Recognise standard safety protocols in construction of pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical systems, namely failsafe design, pressure relief and isolation procedures
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Compressors
Types of compressors Dryers, drain traps, condensate formation Receivers and pipework Filtration, lubrication & pressure reducing valves
Pneumatic Circuits
Basic Symbols ISO RP68P Cylinder, calculations, types and cushioning 3/2 and 5/2 Valves and their operation Construction of simple circuits A+ B+ A-B- o Safety Dump Valves
Valves/Pumps/Bearings
Types of valves/pumps and bearings Applications of specific valves/pumps and bearings Maintenance of valves/pumps and bearings
Engine Technology
Two stroke and four stroke engines Braking / Clutch transmission systems Electrical systems, starter motor, alternator, battery, ECU and load mapping. VVT variable valve timing, cam phasing and cam changing and its effects on performance. Catalytic Converters
Lubrication
Types of oils, viscosity, viscosity improver’s synthetic oils Application of oils and greases Disposal of oils and danger to human health
Hydraulics
Pumps and valves Circuits Safety in operation and design Filtration
Electrical Protection
Electrical components, Fuses , M.C.B.'s , R.C.D.'s Descrimination
Electric Motor Control Circuits
Operation of Motor D.O.L. circuit, Forward / Reverse electrical and mechanical interlocks
Safety
Two handed control in Pneumatics Operational safety with Hydraulics and Pneumatics Isolation procedures for maintenance
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment30.00%
Practical10.00%
End of Module Formal Examination60.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Examination Written examination 1,2,3 10.00 Week 12
Examination Written assessment 3,4,5 10.00 Week 26
Multiple Choice Questions M.C.Q. on line assessment of course work in V.L.E. 5 5.00 Sem 1 End
Practical/Skills Evaluation Practical examination in automation lab 1,2,3,4,5 5.00 Week 20
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation Series of Laboratory Exercises. Typical Laboratory exercises include: • Bearing inspection & measurement • Pneumatic circuits A+,B+,A-,B- • “Meter In-Meter Out” pneumatic circuits • Hydraulic Cylinder control, pressure measurement and combined pressures using PRV for tipping gear and auxiliary functions • Voltage / Current measurement • Torque measurement of bolts • Starter motor disassemble & test • Clutch & pressure plate disassemble & inspection 1,2,3,4,5 10.00 Sem 1 End
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Formal Exam A final written examination will assess the extent to which the student has achieved the module learning outcomes 1,2,3,4,5 60.00 End-of-Semester

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture Every Week 3.00
Laboratory Every Week 1.00
Independent Learning Every Week 3.00
Total Hours 7.00