Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited · RQF Level 3
EAL Level 3 Diploma In Engineering Technologies
You don’t just earn this. You learn to use it, one-to-one, on your own real work.
- LevelRQF Level 3
- Total credits68
- Guided learning525 hours
- Units in this qualification86
Awarded by Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited · on the Ofqual register
Start here
See how this course maps onto your role
Ten quick questions, one per Future Fluency, asked against this qualification rather than a generic one.
About 5 minutes · No card · Nothing to commit to
What you’ll learn
What each unit actually teaches you to do
The Level 3 diploma in engineering technologies allows learners to develop skills in a range of engineering areas. These include fixed wing theory, mechanical systems maintenance, and aircraft manufacturing. This vocationally-related qualification is for individuals working in or intending to work in the engineering sector.
These are the units Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited registers against this qualification. It is a catalogue, not a syllabus. Which of them you take depends on the combination the qualification requires, and that is set by the awarding body rather than by us. Every unit here is regulated, and every one you earn is yours to keep.
Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the basic concepts of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology
- Understand the basic design principles of CNC machine tools
- Understand the selection and application of tooling and work holding devices for CNC machines
- Understand the principles of CNC part programming and machine operation
- Understand CNC operational control parameters and machine setting procedures
Advanced Manufacturing TechniquesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental principles of advanced manufacturing technology installations.
- Understand the requirements for advanced manufacturing technology installations.
- Understand the advantages of incorporating manufacturing flexibility into a manufacturing process.
- Understand the limitations of incorporating manufacturing flexibility into a manufacturing process.
- Understand the fundamental principles of special manufacturing processes.
- Understand the fundamental principles of business improvement techniques.
Advanced MillingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of milling operations, equipment, and procedures.
- Understand the use and functions of rotary tables and dividing heads in milling.
- Name and describe the properties of various cutting tool materials used in milling.
- Understand the quality requirements for checking milled components, including tolerances and surface finishes.
Advanced Personal Computer PC MaintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the relevant Health and Safety principles and regulations applicable to computer maintenance and repair environments.
- Demonstrate safe handling practices and working procedures when interacting with computers and electronic components.
- Understand the function and compatibility of essential hardware components and software elements required to install and configure a fully functional computer system.
- Build, install, configure, and thoroughly test a computer system to ensure it meets specified performance requirements.
- Sketch and describe the internal structure and functionality of main chipsets, system boards, adapter cards, interfaces, and connector ports within a computer system.
- Install, upgrade, and test operating systems, including configuring drivers and system settings.
- Maintain and enhance the performance of a computer system through software updates, hardware upgrades, and system optimisation techniques.
- Connect computers to a network system, configure network settings, and manage the network system for optimal performance and security.
Advanced TurningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the construction and nomenclature of centre lathes and ancillary equipment
- Understand lathe tool selection criteria and the ISO coding for replaceable/indexable inserts and holders
- Understand the factors affecting the turning of a range of common engineering materials
- Understand basic calculations required by turning operations
- Understand techniques used for holding and turning eccentric/non-circular components
- Understand the use of fixed and travelling steadies
- Understand advanced turning techniques
Aircraft Maintenance and Manufacturing Engineering ProceduresReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the correct care, control, and safe use of aircraft workshop tools and equipment
- Understand different engineering drawing types and the standards of limits and fits used in aircraft component manufacture
- Understand and perform workshop fitting, dismantling, and assembly exercises on aircraft components
- Understand the use of adhesives, sealants, and bonding techniques in aircraft manufacture and repair
- Understand the different types and uses of aircraft rivets and locking devices
- Understand the procedures for the removal and replacement of airframe structures and components
Analogue ElectronicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand atomic models for semiconductor materials, including the behaviour of electrons and holes.
- Understand the operation of regulated power supplies, including rectifiers, filters, and voltage regulators.
- Understand the principle of operation of oscillators and their applications in electronic circuits.
- Understand the characteristics and applications of different types of amplifiers, including common emitter, common collector, and common base configurations.
- Understand the characteristics and applications of operational amplifiers (op-amps) in analogue circuits.
Analogue systems engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the function of basic components commonly used in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
- Understand the operation of electrical machines.
- Understand the concepts of amplification systems.
- Understand the effects of negative feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
- Understand the uses of negative feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
- Understand the effects of positive feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
- Understand the uses of positive feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
Assembling aircraft structures and componentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how to install aircraft structures and components
- Understand how to remove and replace airframe structures and components
- Understand how to assemble aircraft structures and components
Automated Welding ProcessesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of automated welding processes, including Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Submerged Arc Welding (SAW).
- Understand the principles of welding metallurgy, including the effects of heat input, cooling rate, and filler metal composition on weld properties.
- Understand the principles of welding health and safety applied to automated welding, including fume extraction, personal protective equipment, and fire prevention.
- Use automated welding equipment, including robotic welding systems and programmable welding controllers, to produce welds.
- Use automated welding consumables, including welding wire, shielding gas, and fluxes, according to specified procedures.
- Produce welds using automated welding procedures, ensuring that they meet the required quality standards and specifications.
Building Mechanical Maintenance Systems and ServicesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the main skills and knowledge required for building services engineering
- Understand the main features of plumbing and industrial pipework installations in buildings
- Understand the operation and maintenance of compressed air systems in industrial and commercial applications
- Understand the main features and operation of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in buildings
Computer Aided Design CAD TechniquesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the risks to health and safety associated with the use of computer equipment and associated peripheral devices
- Understand how to manage stored data files effectively
- Configure a CAD system to meet task requirements
- Understand the requirement of CAD drawings and designs to comply with national and international standards and conventions
- Understand how to use a CAD system for the production of complex two dimensional (2D) engineering drawings and designs
- Understand how to modify, copy, manipulate and erase drawn entities
- Understand how to use a CAD system for the production of basic three dimensional (3D) models and realisations
- Understand how to output CAD data to peripheral devices
Computer Numerical Control CNC Programming/machiningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the risks to health and safety associated with the use of CNC equipment, including machine guarding, electrical safety, and chip removal.
- Understand the types and applications of CNC equipment typically in use within manufacturing industry, including CNC milling machines, CNC lathes, and CNC routers.
- Understand the importance of data preparation and relevant calculations typically required for the manufacture of components by the use of CNC equipment, including coordinate systems, tool offsets, and cutting speeds.
- Produce coded part programs of structure and format appropriate to CNC equipment in use, using G-code and M-code programming languages.
- Input data into CNC controllers and prepare CNC and ancillary equipment for manufacture, including tool setting, workpiece clamping, and machine calibration.
- Prove-out CNC programs by simulating the machining process and making necessary adjustments to the program.
- Produce a first-off component using a CNC machine, ensuring that it meets the required specifications.
- Understand the requirements of first-off component inspection, including dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and material properties.
Data Communications and NetworkingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the advantages and disadvantages of data communications and networking
- Understand peer-to-peer networks and client server based networks and the types of electronic signals that are used
- Understand and define LAN’s (local area networks), WAN’s (wide area networks) and MAN’s (metropolitan area networks)
- Understand the main features of a variety of network hardware and operating systems
- Understand the main features for the following technologies: STAR, RING, MESH Ethernet and Token Ring
- Understand the concepts used by the OSI seven-layer model with reference to the associated hardware
- Understand the current legislation that applies to the workplace, including PAT testing, DSE and relevant health and safety regulations
- Understand the hardware required to use a P.C. on a network
Digital ElectronicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the characteristics of digital quantities, including binary, decimal, and hexadecimal number systems.
- Understand the function and application of standard logic gates such as AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, XOR, and XNOR.
- Understand the different logic technologies, including TTL, CMOS, and ECL.
- Understand the operation and application of combinational logic circuits, including adders, subtractors, multiplexers, and demultiplexers.
- Understand the function and application of latches, flip-flops (SR, D, JK, T), tri-state devices, and Schmitt triggers.
- Demonstrate a systems approach to the application of logic circuits and counters by designing, building, and testing a digital system.
Digital systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the function of the components of digital electronic systems
- Understand the operation of digital circuits
- Understand the purpose and basic operation of microcontroller-based systems
- Understand the principles of digital communications systems and networks
Electrical Maintenance in BuildingsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand electrical supplies to buildings
- Understand the safe maintenance of electrical systems
- Understand the safe maintenance of electrical equipment
- Understand lighting systems
- Understand the maintenance of lighting systems
- Understand low voltage electrical equipment maintenance
- Understand the applications of electrical instruments
Electrical Power for Engineering ApplicationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how to work safely in an electrical engineering environment, adhering to relevant regulations and procedures.
- Understand how electrical energy is generated, transmitted, and distributed from source to end-user.
- Understand the fundamental principles of electrical circuits, including Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Laws, and circuit analysis techniques.
- Understand the utilisation of electrical supplies for various engineering applications, considering factors such as voltage, current, and power requirements.
- Understand the operation, installation, and maintenance procedures for electric motors and machines.
- Carry out inspection and testing procedures on electrical equipment to ensure safety and functionality.
Electrical Testing and CommissioningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the requirements for the inspection, testing and commissioning of an electrical installation.
- Understand the procedures and requirements for the safe inspection of an electrical installation.
- Understand the procedures and requirements for the safe testing and commissioning of an electrical installation.
- Understand the procedures and requirements for the safe and effective in service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
- Carry out inspection and testing of an electrical installation.
- Carry out in service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
Electrical and Electronic PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the effects of the internal resistance of a source on terminal voltage
- Understand the effects of temperature on resistance
- Understand the effect of dielectric materials on capacitance
- Understand the effect of dielectric materials on voltage rating
- Understand the behaviour of magnetic materials
- Understand the effect of magnetic materials on inductance
- Investigate phasor representation of alternating quantities
- Apply phasor representation to series and parallel circuits
- Understand single and three phase AC circuits
- Investigate and plot the transient response of C-R circuits to non-sinusoidal waveforms
- Investigate and plot the transient response of L-R circuits to non-sinusoidal waveforms
Engineering CommunicationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Interpret and use engineering diagrams, such as schematics, blueprints, and technical drawings, to communicate technical information effectively.
- Use verbal and written communication skills effectively in engineering settings, including presentations, reports, and technical documentation.
- Obtain and use engineering information from various sources, including technical manuals, datasheets, and online resources.
- Use information and communication technology (ICT) tools and software to present information effectively in engineering settings, such as creating presentations, spreadsheets, and reports.
Engineering Design ProcessReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the stages and considerations within the Engineering Design Process.
- Understand the various Factors that influence the choice of material in a design, including properties and cost.
- Understand how Manufacturing Processes and Economic Factors influence design decisions and optimisation.
- Understand the Ergonomic Principles Involved in Design to ensure user comfort and safety.
- Understand the operation and application of Simple Mechanisms in engineering designs.
- Understand the Safety Aspects of Design and the importance of risk assessment and mitigation.
Engineering Inspection and Quality ControlReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how inspection is a key part of an organisation's Quality Management System
- Understand how Quality Control is a key part of an organisation's Quality Management System
- Understand the meaning of variation
- Understand the meaning of repeatability
- Understand the meaning of reproducibility
- Understand the meaning of accuracy
- Understand the meaning of tolerance
- Understand the meaning of limit
- Understand the meaning of capability
- Understand the difference between comparison, gauging and measurement
- Understand which type of gauge to use (Gap, Plug, Plate, Feeler, etc.)
- Understand how gauges must be used
- Understand basic measuring instruments
- Understand advanced measuring techniques
- Understand advanced measuring instruments
- Understand the term ‘Geometric Tolerance’
- Understand common geometric tolerance symbols
- Understand a normal distribution curve
Engineering InstrumentationReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the need for instrumentation in engineering processes and systems, including its role in monitoring, control, and data acquisition. Understand the use of system block-diagram representation and typical instrumentation terminology.
- Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process pressure measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and calibrate a typical pressure measuring device.
- Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process level measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and calibrate a typical level measuring device.
- Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process flow measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and/or calibrate a typical flow measuring device.
- Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process temperature measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and/or calibrate a typical temperature measuring device.
- Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical indicating and recording instrumentation used in engineering applications.
Engineering MathematicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Solve engineering related problems mathematically
- Apply formulas and trigonometric methods
- Use standard formulae to find areas and volumes
- Use basic calculus
- Use statistical data
Engineering Organisational Efficiency and ImprovementReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of production activities within an engineering organisation.
- Understand the application of quality control measures in engineering processes.
- Understand the application of quality assurance procedures in engineering processes.
- Understand organisational improvement techniques used in engineering.
- Understand how organisational improvement techniques contribute to competitiveness.
- Understand personnel rights and responsibilities within an engineering organisation.
Engineering and Environmental Health and SafetyReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand health and safety roles and responsibilities within an engineering context
- Understand the application of health and safety regulations and procedures in the engineering environment
- Understand the procedures for the safe moving and storing of materials in an engineering environment
- Understand the principles of environmental management and sustainability in engineering operations
Fabrication and Welding PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand materials technology relating to fabrication & welding
- Understand the principles of metallic corrosion and methods of surface protection
- Understand materials testing procedures relevant to fabrication & welding
- Understand common types of heat treatment process
- Understand the application of maths to fabrication and welding
- Understand the application of engineering science to fabrication and welding
Fixed Wing Theory of FlightReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the basic principles of aerodynamics, including air pressure, airflow, and the generation of aerodynamic forces.
- Understand the factors that affect lift and drag at various angles of attack and velocities, as well as airflow patterns around aerofoils.
- Understand the in-flight forces acting on aircraft during level flight and when manoeuvring, including lift, weight, thrust, and drag.
- Understand the function and operation of flight controls and lift augmentation devices used in fixed-wing aircraft.
- Understand how aircraft stability is achieved through design features and control systems.
Fixed wing Theory of FlightReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the basic principles of aerodynamics, including Bernoulli's principle and Newton's laws of motion, and their application to aircraft flight.
- Understand the factors affecting lift and drag at various angles of attack and velocities, as well as airflow patterns around aerofoils, including stall characteristics.
- Understand the in-flight forces on aircraft in level flight and when manoeuvring, including lift, weight, thrust, and drag, and their relationship to aircraft performance.
- Understand flight controls and lift augmentation devices, including ailerons, elevators, rudders, flaps, and slats, and their effect on aircraft control and performance.
- Understand how aircraft stability is achieved, including longitudinal, lateral, and directional stability, and the factors that influence it.
Further Electrical and Electronic PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Analyse Electrical Networks
- Understand further electrostatic principles
- Understand further electromagnetic and magnetic circuit principles
- Understand advanced alternating current theory
Further Engineering MathematicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Solve engineering related mathematical problems
- Solve engineering related problems involving trigonometry
- Use complex numbers to solve engineering problems
- Apply calculus to solve basic engineering related problems
Further Engineering ScienceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the effects of both Static and Dynamic Forces on Mechanical Bodies and Systems.
- Understand the fundamental Principles of Electricity and Magnetism.
- Understand the function of Electric and Magnetic Components and the Operation of Direct Current Circuits and Machines.
- Understand the Relationships Between Energy, Work and Power in both Mechanical and Thermal Systems.
- Understand Closed-loop Engineering Systems and analyse their behaviour under different conditions.
- Understand Engineering Frameworks and Structures and analyse their behaviour under the influence of External Forces and Loads.
- Understand the effects of External Forces on Mechanical Engineering Components and predict their response.
- Understand the Principles and Effects of Rotational Movement of Mechanical Bodies and Systems.
- Understand the various Means of Mechanical Power Transmission and their applications.
Gear CuttingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the different types of gear in common use within engineering applications
- Understand the standard nomenclature used for spur gears and worm gears
- Understand the different materials used in gear manufacture and their specific applications
- Understand the various methods used for forming gear blanks prior to machining
- Understand the basic principles of machining gears using milling cutters and associated equipment
- Understand the basic principles of gear machining using reciprocating tools, such as shapers and planers
- Understand the basic principles of gear grinding and honing processes for achieving precise gear tooth profiles and surface finishes
General Engineering Maintenance TechniquesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand basic turning skills used in engineering maintenance.
- Understand the application of basic hand tools in engineering maintenance.
- Understand the application of fitting skills in engineering maintenance.
- Understand AC mains measurements and safe working practices.
- Understand pipe fitting techniques used in engineering maintenance.
- Understand thermal joining techniques used in engineering maintenance.
- Understand thermal cutting techniques used in engineering maintenance.
Installation of Electrical EquipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand safe systems of working
- Understand the procedures used to select wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment
- Understand the methods of installing, fixing and connecting wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment
- Understand electrical inspection, testing and commissioning on installed equipment, distribution systems and machines
- Carry out installation and commissioning of electrical equipment
Maintenance Engineering PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the materials used in maintenance engineering
- Understand the selection and use of tools and equipment used in maintenance engineering
- Understand the fundamental numeracy used in maintenance engineering
- Understand the fundamental science used in maintenance engineering
- Understand the sources and use of formal information systems used in maintenance engineering
- Understand the organisation and techniques used in maintenance engineering
Maintenance of Fluid Power Systems and ComponentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the basic principles of hydraulic systems
- Understand the basic principles of high pressure air production
- Understand the basic principles of pneumatic systems
- Understand the operation of hydraulic components
- Understand the operation of pneumatic components
- Understand hydraulic component symbols
- Understand pneumatic component symbols
- Understand the principles of fluid flow
- Understand the operation of pressure components
- Understand the operation of fluid logic components
- Understand the principles of fluid logic component design
- Understand the operation of hydraulic sequencing circuits
- Understand the operation of pneumatic timing circuits
- Understand the operation of pneumatic sequencing circuits
- Understand the operation of electro-hydraulic components
- Understand the operation of electro-pneumatic components
- Understand the principles of electro-hydraulic circuit design
- Understand the principles of electro-pneumatic circuit design
- Understand the operation of PLC controlled hydraulic systems
- Understand the operation of PLC controlled pneumatic systems
- Understand the operation of proportional hydraulic valves
- Understand the operation of proportional hydraulic systems
- Design hydraulic circuits
- Design pneumatic circuits
- Safely construct hydraulic circuits
- Safely construct pneumatic circuits
- Fault find on hydraulic circuits
- Fault find on pneumatic circuits
Maintenance of Hydraulic Systems and ComponentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the basic principles governing the operation of Hydraulic Systems.
- Understand the operation of various Hydraulic Components and interpret their corresponding symbols in circuit diagrams.
- Understand the principles of Fluid Flow within hydraulic systems and the operation of Pressure Components used to control them.
- Understand the operation of Hydraulic Sequencing Circuits and their applications.
- Understand the operation of Electro-hydraulic Components and the underlying principles of Electro-hydraulic Circuit Design.
- Understand the operation of PLC Controlled Hydraulic Systems and their integration with hydraulic circuits.
- Understand the operation of Proportional Hydraulic Valves and Systems and their advantages.
- Design, safely construct, and effectively fault find on various hydraulic Circuits.
- Understand the principles of hydraulic fluid selection based on system requirements and the importance of contamination management.
Maintenance of Mechanical SystemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the purpose and importance of the maintenance function within an engineering context
- Understand the properties and applications of different lubricants and lubrication systems
- Understand the operation, types, materials, and common causes of failure in bearings
- Understand the principles of operation and failure patterns of various power transmission systems
- Understand the different types of seals and the principles of effective sealing
- Understand and apply appropriate dismantling and re-assembly techniques for mechanical systems
Maintenance of Pneumatic Systems and ComponentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the Gas Laws (Boyle's Law, Charles's Law, Gay-Lussac's Law) and their application to pneumatic systems.
- Understand the basic principles of high-pressure air production systems, including compressors, dryers, and filters.
- Understand the operation of pneumatic systems, including pressure regulation, flow control, and actuation.
- Understand the operation of various pneumatic components, including cylinders, valves, and motors, and identify their corresponding symbols according to relevant standards.
- Understand the operation of fluid logic components, such as AND, OR, and NOT gates, and the principles of their design in pneumatic circuits.
- Understand the operation of pneumatic timing circuits, including time delay valves and sequencing circuits for controlling multiple actuators.
- Understand the operation of cascade circuits in pneumatic circuitry for complex sequential control.
- Understand the operation of electro-pneumatic components, such as solenoid valves and pressure switches, and the principles of electro-pneumatic circuit design.
- Understand the operation of PLC-controlled pneumatic systems, including input/output modules and programming techniques.
- Design, safely construct, and fault-find on pneumatic circuits, applying relevant safety procedures and using appropriate tools and equipment.
Maintenance of Refrigeration SystemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the operation of a single stage refrigeration cycle
- Understand the operation of domestic refrigeration systems
- Compare different types of commercial refrigeration systems available
- Compare the operation of the various types of industrial refrigeration systems available
- Compare the performance characteristics of the main components, including compressors, condensers, evaporators and expansion devices
- Evaluate plant-operating conditions by determining the balance points for a typical system
Maintenance of aircraft structuresReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of maintenance on aircraft structures.
- Understand the procedures for removing typical airframe components.
- Understand the procedures for replacing typical airframe components.
- Understand the principles of selecting tooling in a workshop environment.
- Understand the principles of selecting engineering drawings appropriate to workshop requirements.
- Understand how to measure aircraft components to the appropriate degree of accuracy using a range of measuring devices.
Managing Fabrication ActivitiesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the internal and external factors that affect business and the economic environment in which an engineering company operates
- Understand project planning and control methods
- Understand costing techniques used in engineering activities
- Understand organisational structures, leadership and management
- Understand lean business improvement techniques for production and quality
Manual Metal– Arc MMA WeldingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental principles of Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, including arc generation, heat transfer, and weld pool formation.
- Understand the metallurgical principles associated with welding, including the effects of heat on metal properties and the formation of weld microstructures.
- Understand the health and safety hazards associated with welding and the appropriate safety precautions to take.
- Understand the function and operation of the equipment used in Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, including power sources, electrode holders, and safety equipment.
- Understand the types and characteristics of consumables used in Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, including electrodes and shielding gases.
- Understand the welding procedures and methods of testing applied to Manual Metal Arc Welding procedures to ensure weld quality and integrity.
Manufacturing aircraft structuresReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand aircraft component manufacturing techniques.
- Prepare aircraft structures for assembly using jigs.
- Prepare aircraft structures for assembly using fixtures.
- Prepare aircraft structures for assembly using hole preparation techniques.
- Assemble aircraft structures in accordance with relevant standards.
- Inspect aircraft structures to ensure conformity with relevant standards.
Measurement Methods and Control EngineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how to obtain the value of unknown components by measurement and calculation
- Understand how to measure power in an a.c. circuit
- Understand how to investigate transducers, their purpose and manufacturers data sheets
- Understand how the signals from transducers enable measurement
- Understand the basic principles of control engineering methods
- Understand how to investigate frequency response as an analytical tool
Mechanical Engineering PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental principles of engineering science, including mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science
- Understand the fundamental principles of engineering mathematics, including algebra, trigonometry, and calculus
- Understand the terminology related to limits and fits when applied to engineering assemblies and components
- Understand the properties of different engineering materials, including their mechanical, thermal, and electrical characteristics
Mechanical Engineering Principles for Aircraft TechniciansReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand and recognise engineering frameworks and structures and their behaviour under the influence of external forces and loads
- Understand the effects of external forces on mechanical engineering components
- Understand the principles and effects of rotational movement of mechanical bodies and systems
- Understand the means of mechanical power transmission
Mechanised Welding ProcessesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of mechanised welding processes
- Understand the principles of mechanised welding metallurgy
- Understand the principles of welding health and safety applied to mechanised welding
- Use mechanised welding equipment
- Use mechanised welding consumables
- Produce welds using mechanised welding procedures
Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas MIG/MAG WeldingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) Welding
- Understand metallurgy associated with welding
- Understand welding health and safety
- Understand the equipment associated with Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) Welding
- Understand the consumables used in Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) Welding
- Understand welding procedures and methods of testing applied to Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) welding
MicroelectronicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the components of a microprocessor system.
- Understand the different types of microprocessor systems available.
- Understand various number systems used in microelectronics.
- Understand bit arithmetic and logical operations.
- Understand the architecture of the Central Processing Unit (CPU).
- Understand the role of the Central Processing Unit (CPU).
- Understand how the CPU communicates with memory and other chips.
- Understand simple timing diagrams.
- Understand memory addressing.
- Understand instruction execution.
- Understand the basic principles of low-level or assembly language programming.
- Understand the procedure for writing codes to perform simple tasks on a chosen microprocessor system or simulator.
- Understand the procedure for writing programs with interfacing algorithms to control signals from peripherals connected to the system.
- Understand the procedure for writing programs with interfacing algorithms to receive signals from peripherals connected to the system.
- Understand how to produce simple programs for the PIC 16xxx Microcontroller.
Panel Wiring for Engineering ApplicationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how to work safely during the assembly of electrical control panels.
- Understand how to work safely during the installation of electrical control panels.
- Understand how to work safely during the commissioning of electrical control panels.
- Understand how to work safely during the repair of electrical control panels.
- Understand the procedures for the design of electrical control panels.
- Understand the procedures for the assembly of electrical control panels.
- Understand the procedures for the installation of electrical control panels.
- Understand how to maintain electrical control panels.
- Understand how to refurbish electrical control panels.
- Understand how to repair electrical control panels.
- Understand how to inspect electrical control panels.
- Understand how to test electrical control panels.
- Build an electrical control panel to a specified design.
- Commission an electrical control panel.
Pattern DevelopmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental principles of Parallel Line development in engineering applications.
- Understand the fundamental principles of Radial Line development in engineering applications.
- Understand the fundamental principles of Triangulation development in engineering applications.
- Understand the principles of using Cutting Planes and Common Central Spheres to determine joint lines in engineering contexts.
Precision GrindingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the operation of precision grinding machines
- Understand the use of grinding equipment, procedures and operations
- Understand the application of work holding equipment and setting procedures used for precision grinding activities
- Understand the construction and use of precision grinding wheels and associated equipment used in grinding operations
- Understand the quality requirements for checking precision ground components
Principles of Rotorywing Aircraft FlightReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of aerodynamics as applied to rotarywing aircraft
- Understand rotarywing aircraft control and manoeuvrability
- Understand rotarywing aircraft flight and stability
- Understand the procedures and hazards for rotarywing aircraft in flight
Producing Pipework FabricationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Interpret and evaluate pipework drawings, specifications and sources of regulations
- Evaluate pipe materials and components for a range of applications
- Demonstrate an understanding of a range of piped systems
- Understand the need for the testing and periodic cleaning of pipelines
- Justify the need for the protection and insulation of pipelines
- Perform a pipework installation practical task
Producing Plate FabricationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the methods used in the production of fabricated parts.
- Understand marking out techniques applied in plate work.
- Understand mechanical cutting of plate material.
- Understand thermal cutting of plate material.
- Understand plate forming processes.
- Understand the use of CNC controlled plate processing machinery.
- Understand methods of assembling plate fabrications.
- Understand methods of inspecting plate fabrications.
Producing Sheet Metal FabricationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the methods used in the production of fabricated parts
- Understand marking out techniques applied to sheet metal
- Understand mechanical cutting of sheet metal
- Understand thermal cutting of sheet metal
- Understand sheet metal forming processes
- Understand the use of CNC controlled sheet metal processing machinery
- Understand methods of assembling sheet metal fabrications
- Understand methods of inspecting sheet metal fabrications
Programmable Logic Controllers PLCsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the internal architecture of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), their diverse applications across industries, and the number systems they utilise for data processing and control
- Understand the typical input and output devices used with PLCs, including sensors, actuators, and communication modules, and how to select and interface them correctly to the PLC system
- Understand the basic programming techniques used with PLCs, including ladder logic, function block diagrams, and structured text, to create control algorithms
- Produce a correctly developed program for a PLC to control a specified process, ensuring it meets the required functional specifications, and document the completed program to a satisfactory standard for future reference and maintenance
- Monitor PLC operation in real-time, force input and output devices for testing purposes, and effectively fault find PLC controlled processes using diagnostic tools and techniques
Radio and Radar PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the theory of amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FM) techniques
- Understand the basic principles of radio transmitters and receivers
- Understand the operational requirements of primary radar systems
- Understand the principles of pulsed radar and continuous wave (CW) radar systems
Rail vehicle traction systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand AC electric power collection and transmission
- Describe AC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency
- Explain the construction and function of a typical high speed pantograph
- Describe what systems are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at neutral sections
- Describe how an AC vehicle’s main transformer works and the need for different voltage outputs
- Draw a schematic of a typical AC traction power control system that shows variations to allow for the control of both AC and DC traction motors
- Compare and contrast the performance, reliability characteristics and maintenance implications of AC and DC traction motors
- Describe the bonding and earth return requirements and arrangements for a typical 25kv traction unit
- Explain the principles of rheostatic/regenerative braking
- Develop a winterisation instruction for a typical 25Kv AC electric traction unit
- Understand DC electric power collection and transmission
- Describe DC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency
- Describe typical 750V DC collection equipment
- Describe the systems that are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at section gaps
- Describe how the speed of DC traction motors is controlled
- Draw a typical current/ speed/temperature curve for DC traction motors
- Describe the main performance issues resulting from sub-zero temperatures and snowfall
- Describe how a traction unit operating on a DC electrified railway may utilise AC traction motors
- Describe the earth return and bonding requirements for a typical 750V DC traction unit
- Write a planned maintenance programme for a typical DC traction unit
- Understand diesel hydraulic and diesel electric power generation and transmission
- Draw a schematic diesel engine showing all the key internal and external components
- Explain the operation of a diesel engine
- Describe how a diesel engines performance is controlled, showing mathematically how operation of the control system produces a variation in power output
- Describe mathematically how the performance of a turbo charger affects the performance of a diesel engine
- Describe with the aid of diagrams how a diesel hydraulic power unit operates
- Describe with the aid of diagrams how a diesel electric power unit operates
- Write a planned annual preventative maintenance programme for a diesel engine listing the components to be inspected and the periodicity of inspections
Railway Infrastructure - Track engineering maintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand maintenance techniques applied to plain line track.
- Outline the failure characteristics of plain line track.
- Describe methods applied for the maintenance of track alignment.
- Explain the methods applied for the maintenance of track gauge.
- Describe the methods applied for the maintenance of track formation.
- Describe the methods for the maintenance of track components.
- Describe the requirements for maintenance of electrical insulation between rails.
- Describe the maintenance requirements for track in special environments.
- Describe the maintenance for rail lubricators.
- Describe the maintenance requirements for Adjustment Switches.
- Describe the maintenance requirements for Insulated Block Joints.
- Explain the requirements for the welding of rails.
- Perform calculations for the stressing of plain line track.
- Understand maintenance techniques applied to switch and crossing layouts.
- Outline the failure characteristics of S&C layouts.
- Evaluate methods applied for the maintenance of S&C alignment.
- Describe the methods applied for the maintenance of S&C components.
- Describe the requirements for lubrication of S&C layouts.
- Describe the requirements for maintenance of electrical insulation between rails.
- Describe the interface between S&C layouts and point operating mechanisms.
- Describe the interface between S&C layouts and point heating systems.
- Understand mechanised maintenance techniques applied to plain line.
- Evaluate where mechanised maintenance techniques can be utilised to maintain and improve track quality.
- Review how track geometry data can be interpreted to determine where mechanised maintenance interventions are suitable.
- Describe the use of grinding trains on plain line maintenance.
- Describe the planning regime for the mechanised maintenance intervention.
- Understand maintenance of the off track environment.
- Describe the maintenance regime applied to lineside vegetation.
- Explain the effect of infestations on embankment and cutting stability.
- Describe the process for management of infestation.
- Outline the effect of severe weather on embankment stability and precautions to be taken.
- Describe the planning requirements for extreme weather.
- Outline the fire risks associated with lineside environment and associated control methods.
- Describe the maintenance methodologies of lineside fencing.
- Evaluate the potential impact on performance due to trespass and vandalism including accumulation of rubbish.
- Understand inspection techniques applied in track engineering.
- Describe the inspection regime mandated by the Infrastructure Controller for plain line.
- Describe the inspection regime mandated by the Infrastructure Controller for switch and crossing.
- Describe the inspection regime in place for sidings as mandated by the owner.
- Carry out an inspection of plain line track, and produce documented evidence.
- Carry out a detailed inspection of S&C layout and produce documented evidence.
- Describe the process required for critical rail temperature management.
- Explain non-destructive testing techniques applied to track engineering.
- Understand raising and removing speed restrictions following maintenance activities.
- Explain the engineering specifications relating to ensuring the track is fit for operational purposes following track maintenance activities.
- Describe the impact of track maintenance activities on operational capability.
- Describe the compliance requirements set by the infrastructure controller.
- Outline the defects that can occur following track maintenance.
- Explain how to determine the safe line speed following track maintenance activities.
- List the quality control documentation to be produced to demonstrate quality control of track maintenance activities.
- Explain the requirements for imposing speed restrictions following track maintenance.
- Install temporary and emergency speed restrictions.
Railway Infrastructure - civil engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the construction methods employed in building railway infrastructure
- Outline the legal framework in the UK for the construction of new railways
- Examine the construction process employed by historic railway builders
- Explain the constraints inherited from historic railway construction
- Describe the construction methods employed on construction of high speed lines
- Describe the methods employed in bridge construction
- Understand the management of the lineside environment and its effect on track performance
- Identify suitable fencing solutions dependent upon neighbouring environments
- Identify the requirements and methods of trackside vegetation management
- Explain the requirements for rodent control in the track environment and the effect on track performance
- Understand soil mechanics and the inspection and assessment techniques applied in the railway environment
- Explain the specification and performance of ballast as part of the track system
- Describe the construction and performance of subgrade and substructure and the effect on the track system
- Describe the construction and performance of earthworks and embankments and their effect on track systems
- Explain the remedial process applied to unstable earthworks or embankments
- Identify the causes of subterranean fires and their effect on railway infrastructure, and identify potential remedial strategies
- Evaluate the potential effects of historic mining operations close to the railway infrastructure and the potential effect on track stability
- Outline the potential effects of surface material extraction on the function of the track system
- Analyse the requirements for drainage of the railway infrastructure
- Understand the structures on or around the railway infrastructure and their impact on the track infrastructure
- Explain the construction of tunnels and the considerations to be taken into effect when planning the maintenance or renewal of track
- Describe the construction of structures adjacent to or supporting the track infrastructure
- Understand the clearances that are required for the safe operation of the railway infrastructure
- Explain the measurement requirements for static load gauge
- Explain the measurement requirements for kinetic envelope
- Explain the measurement requirements for the swept envelope
- Explain the measurement requirements for structure gauge
- Explain the measurement requirements for platform gauge
Railway Infrastructure - track constructionReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the process for track construction and renewals
- Describe the planning process for track construction and renewals
- Identify the risks and safety management systems applied to track construction and renewals sites
- Describe the handover process from maintainer to constructor
- Explain the requirements for determining bill of quantities for track materials including the ordering and delivery of track materials
- Explain the methods of achieving plain line construction and renewals in tunnels and viaducts
- Evaluate the application of on track plant and road rail plant in track construction renewals
- Explain the process for ballast treatment
- Identify the requirement for other engineering functions to be involved in track construction and renewals projects
- Explain the requirements for returning railway to operational service including the hand back process from constructor to maintainer
- Understand high output techniques applied to track construction and renewals
- Explain the methods of achieving track construction and renewals using high output techniques
- Explain the methods of achieving ballast treatment using high output techniques
- Understand construction and renewals methods for switch and crossing layouts
- Describe the planning process for S&C construction and renewals including the handover process from maintainer to constructor
- Measure existing S&C layouts for like for like renewals
- Interpret engineering drawings relating to S&C construction
- Describe the process for determining bill of quantities for S&C materials
- Describe the process for ordering and delivery of S&C materials
- Identify the risks and safety management systems applied to S&C construction and renewals sites
- Explain the different methods for construction and renewals of S&C layouts
- Describe the requirements of other engineering functions involved in S&C construction activity
- Describe the requirements for returning railway to operational service and the hand back process from constructor to maintainer
- Understand the quality control methods employed for track construction and renewals
- Interpret relevant engineering construction standards in relation to construction and renewals activities
- Evaluate the impact of construction and renewals activities on track drainage systems
- Describe how progress of track construction and renewals activities is monitored
- Detail the quality control methods used to ensure construction and renewals activities comply with design requirements
- Measure structure gauge and track geometry
- Describe the relationship between track geometry and traction supply geometry
- Perform calculations for the stressing of plain line
- List the requirements for engineering records to be produced during and following track construction and renewals activities
- Understand raising and removing speeds following track renewal activity
- Describe the engineering specifications relating to ensuring the track is fit for operational purposes following track construction and renewals
- Evaluate the impact of track construction and renewals on operational capability
- Explain the compliance requirements set by the infrastructure controller
- List the defects that can occur following track construction and renewals
- Explain how to determine the safe line speed following track construction and renewals activities
- Describe the quality control documentation to be produced to demonstrate quality control of track construction and renewals activities
- Describe the requirements for imposing speed restrictions following track construction and renewals
- Apply temporary and emergency speed restriction indicators for train drivers
Railway Infrastructure - track engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the design, construction and operation of plain line track
- Identify the components utilised in the construction of plain line track systems
- Describe the construction of plain line track systems
- Apply Hooke’s Law for calculating the requirement for restoration of stress in plain line
- Explain the requirements of track design for the application of transitions and curves
- Describe the wheel/rail interface and point of contact
- Understand the design, construction and operation of switch and crossing layouts
- Identify the components utilised in the construction of switch & crossing systems
- Describe the construction of switch and crossing systems
- Describe the materials used in switch and crossing units
- Identify the types of switch and crossing layouts
- Explain the operation of switch and crossing systems
- Explain the geometry required for switch and crossing systems
- Explain the operational characteristics of point operating system
- Understand the common failure modes of track engineering systems
- Describe potential failure modes of track components associated with plain line track
- Describe potential failure modes caused by track formation deterioration
- Describe potential failure modes of switch and crossing layouts
- Understand the effects of abnormal conditions on the performance of the track system
- Describe the effects of abnormal weather conditions
- Describe the effect of leaf fall and uncontrolled lineside vegetation
- Describe the effects of lineside vegetation on signal sighting and potential damage to overhead line equipment
- Explain the effect of abnormal weather conditions on planned engineering activity
- Understand the interface between track engineering systems and other railway engineering functions
- Describe the basic principles of electricity as applied to railway infrastructure
- Describe the fundamental principles of railway signalling
- Explain the operation of points and point detection systems
- Describe the relationship of track geometry with overhead line geometry and the interface between the two
Railway Infrastructure – mechanical engineering principlesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamentals of engineering science.
- Carry out calculations involving heat.
- Carry out calculations involving strength of materials.
- Carry out calculations involving forces.
- Carry out calculations involving friction.
- Carry out calculations involving work and power.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the ultimate tensile strength.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the yield point.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the limit of proportionality.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the elastic limit.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the ultimate load.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the breaking load.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the percentage elongation.
- Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the percentage reduction in area.
- Carry out calculations involving work done.
- Carry out calculations involving power.
- Carry out calculations involving electromotive force.
- Carry out calculations involving resistance.
- Identify the primary units of the SI system; length, mass, time, temperature, capacity.
- Identify the derived units of the SI system; force, stress, density, conductivity, power, current, voltage and resistance.
- Carry out calculations involving basic hydraulic principles.
- Understand the fundamentals of engineering mathematics.
- Solve simple, practical algebraic problems.
- Solve practical problems using trigonometry.
- Solve practical problems involving areas, perimeters and volumes.
- Present and interpret information using graphical and statistical means.
- Use vulgar fractions and decimals.
- Use ratios, proportions and percentages.
- Use positive and negative numbers.
- Solve simple equations by substitution.
- Transpose given formulae.
- Solve linear equations.
- Solve simultaneous equations.
- Use trigonometry to solve practical problems associated with measurement and inspection.
- Calculate the area and perimeter of common plane figures.
- Calculate the volume of common prismoidal shapes.
- Present and interpret information using graphs and charts.
- Present and interpret basic statistical data.
- Understand the fundamentals of applied mechanics.
- Describe the principle of equilibrium.
- Calculate forces acting upon a simple structure in equilibrium.
- Use graphical methods to describe forces acting upon a simple structure in equilibrium.
- Explain the principle of framed structures.
- Calculate the forces acting on a framed structure.
- Use graphical methods to describe forces acting upon a simple structure.
- Describe the principles of shearing forces and bending moments.
- Calculate shearing force.
- Calculate bending moments.
- Use graphical methods to describe shearing force and bending moments.
- Understand the principles of stress and strain.
- Calculate shear stress.
- Calculate tensile strain.
- Calculate compressive strain.
- Describe the moduli of elasticity for a range of engineering materials used in railway engineering.
- Understand the properties of engineering materials.
- Describe the term atomic structure – the atom, electron, proton and neutron. The arrangement of atoms defining a substance; solid, liquid or gas.
- Explain the forms of bonding: Covalent, Ionic and Metallic.
- Define the crystalline structure of metals; lattice structures: Body-centred cubic, Face-centred cubic and Close-packed hexagonal.
- Explain how lattice and grain structures arise; solidification and growth of dendrites.
- Define the term re-crystallisation.
- Describe the effects of heat treatment and hot and cold working on the crystal structure.
- Describe the relationship between the solidification process and a cooling curve.
- Recognise the cooling curves for a pure metal and an alloy.
- Recognise an equilibrium diagram.
- Illustrate the structure, properties, and uses of steels.
- Describe the principal methods of testing for hardness.
- Explain the structure of polymers; polymer chains and their effect on the polymer.
- Describe the effects of temperature on the mechanical properties of polymers.
- Define the properties and uses of common polymers; Thermoplastics; Thermosetting Polymers; Elastomers.
Railway infrastructure - Function and Characteristics of Railway Signalling SystemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the role of rail signalling within the railway system
- Identify the different components of a signalling system
- Identify the lineside equipment that interface with signalling systems
- Describe the historical development of signalling systems
- Explain the purpose and scope of a signalling system within the rail system
- Interpret how the human-machine interfaces occur in relation to the signalling system, the risks present and how risk is mitigated
- Explain how interface is maintained between lineside and signalling systems components
- Understand how signalling systems provide safety on the railway
- Identify the different types of mechanical and electrical interlocking used in signalling systems
- Explain the different types of interlocking used in signalling systems
- Explain how the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) works in terms of controlling the speed of a train
- Define how safety is maintained if a train passes through a red signal
- Explain how high-integrity systems ensure the signalling system provides safety
- Explain how the installation, testing and commissioning of a signalling system ensures fitness for purpose of the system
- Explain the importance of maintenance and repair in ensuring the signalling system is safe
- Understand the role of block sections within the signalling system
- Draw a diagram of a block section for a given signalling system
- Classify the types of block section used on the rail infrastructure
- Explain how safety is maintained within a block section
- Explain the consequences of failure of the signalling system
- Interpret how the risk of failure is mitigated for a given signalling application
- Understand how documentation, competence management systems and licensing is used in supporting signalling systems and how it is controlled
- Describe the role of The Institution of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE), licensing system
- Describe the different categories of licences required to work on signalling systems
- Describe the sources and types of information used in relation to signalling systems
- Interpret signalling abbreviations, symbols and the signalling alphabet
- List the types of documents used in signalling and methods of document control applied
Railway infrastructure - Railway Signalling Systems Testing and MaintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the sub-systems and components of the main line-side equipment
- Identify the sub systems and components of the main lineside equipment types
- Carry out installation, maintenance or testing on two different types of line side equipment
- Describe the applications of lineside equipment
- Describe the principal elements of construction, design and implementation of a signalling system
- Interpret how a change in the signalling system has effects that may impact on related systems
- Classify the different types and sizes of cables used on the infrastructure and applications of each
- Use railway signalling maintenance and testing equipment
- Carry out testing on signalling equipment
- Use three different types of railway signalling installation, maintenance or testing equipment
- Classify the types and purpose of the equipment used in railway installation, maintenance or testing
- Explain the importance of the calibration of maintenance and testing equipment
- Describe precautions in use and care of the equipment used in railway maintenance and testing
- Understand how safe working procedures apply to all aspects of signalling equipment operations
- Demonstrate the need for safe methods of working when working on signalling equipment
- Explain the need for testing methods and records of work
- Describe the importance of personal accountability when working on signalling equipment
- Understand the stages of the design process, abbreviations, symbols and plans used on the signalling system
- Describe the stages of a signalling system design process for a given application
- Identify the component parts of a control table and the sources from which these are drawn
- Describe signalling abbreviations, symbols and the signalling alphabet
- Identify signalling bonding and equipment circuit plans
- Describe the different ways signalling information is given from the designers to installers, testers and maintainers
Railway infrastructure - electrical engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand circuit theory to determine voltage, current and resistance in direct current (DC) circuits
- Explain DC circuit theory
- Describe DC networks
- Carry out measurements in DC circuits
- Understand DC circuits containing capacitors and carry out measurements and calculations
- Describe the types of capacitors
- Explain the charging and discharging of a capacitor
- Describe a DC network that includes a capacitor
- Understand the principles and properties of magnetism
- Describe magnetic fields
- Explain the principles of electromagnetic induction
- Understand single phase alternating current (AC) theory, and the application in railway electrical supply systems
- Explain single phase alternating current (AC) circuit theory
- Describe three phase alternating current (AC) supply
- Explain the operation of transformers
- Describe the generation and distribution of electricity to the rail infrastructure
- Carry out measurements of an alternating current (AC) circuit
Railway infrastructure - overhead line equipment constructionReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the process for OLE construction
- Describe the planning process for OLE Construction
- Explain the risks and safety management systems applied to OLE construction sites
- Interpret engineering specifications for OLE construction activities
- Determine the bill of quantities for OLE materials
- Describe the ordering and delivery of OLE materials
- Describe the application of on track plant in OLE construction
- Describe the application of road rail plant equipment in OLE construction
- Explain the requirements for other engineering functions to be involved in OLE construction
- List the methods employed in progress reporting for OLE construction sites
- Identify the requirements for returning the railway to operational service
- Describe the hand back process from constructor to maintainer
- Understand the installation techniques applied to OLE construction
- Describe the construction methods for foundations and erections for plain line OLE installations
- Describe the construction methods for small parts steelwork applied in plain line OLE installations
- Describe the construction methods for the installation of wires applied in OLE installations
- Describe the construction methods for sectioning, insulation, registrations and in span components applied in OLE installations
- Describe the installation, enhancement and renewal of earthing and bonding in OLE installations
- Describe the use of high output equipment in the installation of OLE systems
- Understand the testing and commissioning requirements for OLE installations
- Explain the process required to secure OLE out of use to enable non electric traction systems or restricted running following construction work on complex OLE systems
- Explain the process required for bringing the OLE into service to enable electric traction running following construction of complex OLE systems
Railway infrastructure - overhead line equipment maintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the design and construction of foundations and main steelwork associated with OLE systems
- Describe the different soil characteristics that could typically be found on OLE installations and the implications for the design of foundations
- Analyse the design of foundations for OLE construction and the factors that influence the choice of foundation type
- Interpret the industry standard drawings (e.g. OLEMI) for foundations and main steelwork
- Understand the design, construction and operation of small parts steelwork associated with OLE system
- Interpret the construction drawings associated with small parts steel used in the construction of OLE systems
- Identify the types and functions of a variety of small part steel components associated with OLE construction
- Describe the types of materials used in the construction of cantilevers and other OLE components and the types of fixings used
- Identify the types of insulators and the function of insulators used in OLE construction
- Identify the potential failure points associated with small parts steel and the potential service disruptions that can occur
- Understand the design, construction and operation of wires and cables associated with OLE systems and the interface with the pantograph
- Identify the types of and uses cables and wires used in OLE construction
- Explain the construction arrangements for cables and wires used in OLE construction
- Describe the tensioning arrangements for contact wire
- Describe the overlap arrangements for contact wires
- Describe the requirements for turnouts wiring for OLE systems
- Describe the requirements for OLE Geometry
- Describe the construction drawing used for cables and wires
- Describe the wire run drawing
- Understand the design and construction, and operation of in-line components associated with OLE systems
- Describe the types of components and their function used in the construction of OLE Section Insulators
- Identify the types of components used in the construction of OLE Neutral Sections, describe operational function, and the mechanical and electrical properties
- Explain the requirement for Automatic Power Controller (APC Magnets)
- Interpret the construction drawings associated with in line components used in the construction of OLE systems
- Understand the design requirements for OLE geometry and electrical clearances
- Explain the operation of the pantograph
- Describe the requirements of OLE geometry
- Interpret the construction drawings for heights and staggers
- Describe the requirements for electrical clearance
- Describe the design requirements for electrical clearance
- Understand the requirements for earthing and bonding associated with OLE systems
- Describe the requirements for provision of traction current return paths
- Understand the requirements for the provision of protection from fault currents
- Explain the terms, touch potential and step potential
- Describe the requirements for the bonding of lineside equipment
- Explain the operation of train detection systems used by signal engineers
- Identify the safety requirements for earthing of OLE systems to facilitate engineering operations
- Interpret bonding diagrams
- Understand the interface between OLE engineering and other railway engineering systems and operational equipment
- Describe the interface between OLE systems and track engineering systems
- Describe the interface between OLE systems and signalling systems
- Describe the interface between OLE systems and telecommunication systems
- Describe the interface between OLE systems and fixed plant and equipment
- Describe the interface between OLE systems and lineside structures
- Describe the interface between the OLE contact wire and the pantograph
Rotorywing Aircraft Gas Turbine EnginesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental operating principles of typical gas turbine engines used in rotary-wing aircraft.
- Understand the constructional details and component arrangements of typical gas turbine engines.
- Understand the purpose, operation, and maintenance of systems used for ignition, fuel delivery, lubrication, cooling, and starting of gas turbine engines.
- Understand the range of maintenance operations that are typically carried out on installed gas turbine engines, including inspection, servicing, and repair.
Rotorywing Aircraft Structures and TransmissionsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the function of various rotorywing aircraft structural components
- Understand the principles of maintenance philosophies when applied to rotorywing aircraft structures
- Understand the operation of rotorywing aircraft transmission systems
- Understand the methods used in helicopter rotor blade construction
Rotorywing Aircraft systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the operation and control mechanisms of main and tail rotor systems in rotary-wing aircraft.
- Understand the design, components, and operation of rotary-wing aircraft fuel systems, including fuel storage, delivery, and management.
- Understand the principles, components, and operation of rotary-wing aircraft hydraulic systems and flight controls.
- Understand the correct procedures for the assembly and dismantling of rotary-wing aircraft components and systems.
- Understand the correct handling procedures for rotary-wing aircraft, including ground handling, taxiing, and pre-flight checks.
Servicing Physiological Monitoring and Infusion EquipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how to carry out maintenance activities appropriate for the physiological monitoring and infusion equipment to be serviced and maintained
- Understand how to produce a working protocol for the servicing and maintenance of a medical device
- Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of infusion devices
- Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of gas delivery units and systems
- Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of suction devices and systems
- Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of syringe pumps
Servicing cardiovascular equipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand safe working practices when servicing cardiovascular equipment, including electrical safety, manual handling, and COSHH regulations.
- Understand the importance of carrying out scheduled servicing according to manufacturer's recommendations and relevant standards.
- Understand the principles of operation of a range of cardiovascular equipment, including treadmills, exercise bikes, elliptical trainers, and rowing machines.
- Understand the function of the components and sub-assemblies used in cardiovascular equipment, such as motors, sensors, control panels, and drive systems.
- Use appropriate tools and test equipment, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and pressure gauges, to undertake servicing activities.
- Carry out routine servicing activities on a range of cardiovascular equipment, including cleaning, lubrication, adjustment, and calibration.
- Decide on appropriate action if problems are found during servicing, such as component replacement or repair.
- Identify when equipment is not functioning correctly and identify likely fault causes using diagnostic techniques and fault-finding charts.
- Replace a range of components and sub-assemblies, such as belts, bearings, sensors, and control panels, following manufacturer's instructions.
- Recognise the organisational and legal implications of the need for completing records of service work, including maintenance logs, fault reports, and parts lists.
- Complete records of service work accurately and legibly using paper-based and/or computer-based systems.
- Describe the operation of general power supplies used in cardiovascular equipment, including AC/DC converters and voltage regulators.
- Carry out servicing activities on general power supplies, such as testing voltage levels, replacing fuses, and checking for overheating.
Servicing medical therapeutic equipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the established protocol for setting up a laser procedure for clinical use, adhering to local rules and safety guidelines
- Explain the importance of using defined techniques and procedures when carrying out service activities, while maintaining a safe working environment
- Understand the procedures for servicing and maintaining audiometry screening equipment
- Understand the principles and operation of nerve stimulation devices and interferential units
- Understand the principles and operation of phototherapy lamps
Sheet Metalwork TechnologyReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of work organisation and management within a sheet metalwork environment.
- Understand the processes involved in pattern development for sheet metal components.
- Understand the various cutting and forming techniques used in sheet metalwork.
- Understand the different assembly processes employed in sheet metalwork fabrication.
- Understand the range of finishing techniques applied to sheet metal products.
Shipbuilding OperationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand ships' drawings, specifications and procedures
- Understand lofting, drawing and computer aided engineering techniques used in shipbuilding
- Understand ship types and appropriate design features for each type
- Understand the structure and strength of a ship
- Understand the monitoring and controlling of assembly and erection of fabricated units
- Understand the construction of fore and after end units
Specialised MachiningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the process of Electro Discharge Machining using plain or shaped electrodes.
- Understand the process of Electro Discharge Machining using wire or tape electrodes.
- Understand the process of Electro-Chemical Machining, using plain or shaped electrodes.
- Understand the use of lasers for thermal cutting and welding.
- Understand electron beam cutting and welding.
- Understand water jet and abrasive jet cutting and machining.
- Understand super finishing processes.
- Understand twist drilling systems used in machining engineering materials.
- Understand tubular drilling systems used in machining engineering materials.
Tool making/ Presswork/Extrusion DesignReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the design process relating to tool making, extrusion dies and press tools
- Understand the factors influencing the choice of material used within a design
- Understand how manufacturing processes and economic factors influence design
- Understand factors affecting the design of jigs, fixtures, extrusion dies and press tools for the manufacture of simple components
- Understand the safety aspects of designs relating to jigs and fixtures, extrusion dies and press tools
- Make a simple jig or fixture or extrusion die or press tool
Traction and rolling suspension, wheelsets and brakes and associated systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock suspension and tilt systems.
- Differentiate between the different suspension systems fitted to trains in relation to their purpose.
- Describe the operation and control of a high speed train tilt system, list potential failure modes and the mitigation that may be applied in the event of failure.
- Illustrate mathematically how failed suspension increases damage to both track and vehicles.
- Write a planned maintenance programme for a typical high speed train suspension and tilt mechanism.
- Compare conventional body/bogie mountings.
- Write a winterisation procedure for a high speed train tilt system.
- Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock braking systems.
- Describe a typical air/electric brake system.
- Compare and contrast tread brake, cheek disc and inboard disc braking systems.
- Describe how a variable load valve works and what symptoms would become apparent in the event of failure.
- Describe the various types of friction pad in use on main line traction and rolling stock.
- Describe with the aid of schematics the operation of a typical wheel slide prevention system.
- Describe the safety systems that can take over the operation of a train braking system in the event of operator error.
- Describe why automatic sanding is necessary.
- Write a planned maintenance programme for a typical high speed train braking system.
- Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock axles, wheels and bearings.
- Draw a typical wheelset, identifying all components.
- List the different types of wheel profile in common use on the network, identifying typical duties and the rationale for selection.
- Write a wheelset and axle bearing maintenance policy.
- Describe the process of changing out a wheelsets as routine maintenance, identifying all risks associated with the operation.
- Describe in situ test and inspection methodology for traction and rolling stock wheelsets.
- Discuss the implications of a ‘flat’ on a wheelset.
- Discuss ways in which wheelset life may be extended, listing determining factors.
- Describe the criticality of the wheel rail interface and its implications for track wear and damage.
Tungsten Inert Gas TIG Welding ProcessReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding
- Understand metallurgy associated with welding
- Understand welding health and safety requirements
- Understand equipment associated with Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding
- Understand the consumables used in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding
- Understand welding procedures and methods of testing applied to Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG)
Wind turbine principlesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental principles of wind turbine operation, including energy conversion, blade aerodynamics, and power generation.
Workplace improvementReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
What you'll be able to do
- Carry out a workplace improvement activity.
- Understand the methods used to identify and eliminate waste.
- Understand the principles of visual management.
- Understand the role of standard company documentation.
The honest bit
You’ve started things before
Most courses were built for a room full of people who aren’t you. A cohort moves on whether or not your week allowed it, and by the third week the thing you’re behind on becomes the reason you stop opening it.
There’s no cohort here, and no timetable to fall behind. Before anything starts, Zavmo asks when you’re sharpest and how long you can realistically sit down for, then builds the sessions around those answers. A bad fortnight changes your pace. It doesn’t put you behind.
And you only pay once you start learning. Searching and planning are free, and you can cancel any time — so the cost of finding out is an afternoon, not a year.
Your passport
Every credit is a stamp you keep
Level 3 credits are regulated. They don’t vanish when a subscription ends or a website closes. They travel to any employer, and Zavmo keeps the map of what you’ve earned and what’s next.
Each stamp is a real unit registered against this qualification.
Who’d teach you this

The Evidence Evaluator
Assessor
Helps you show what you can actually do, gathering the evidence that proves it as you learn.
Meet all twelve tutorsWhere this connects
Where these credits take you
A qualification is never a dead end here. See the jobs its credits open, the national occupational standards its units map to, and the future skills they quietly build.
- Assembling aircraft airframe ancillary components
- Complete testing, gauging and acceptance of overhead line equipment
- Install Overhead Line Equipment Sectioning, Insulation, Registration and In-span Components
- Install electrical cabling and wiring systems
- Maintenance and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning hard facilities systems
- Position and install electrical equipment and systems in engineering construction plant
- Solve electricity network engineering problems with engineering solutions
- Understand how to maintain industrial refrigeration equipment used in food and drink operations
Where this can lead
Quality Inspector
Your journey in quality can take many exciting turns. Whether you want to become a deep technical expert, lead teams, or shape quality strategy across an entire business, this role is a fantastic launchpad. We're here to support your growth, but ultimately, your career path is yours to own.
See the whole journey →Showing 6 roles, drawn from 19 job records mapped to this qualification.
Skills it covers
What the job actually needs. These are the standards the units are built against, in the words employers and awarding bodies already use for the work itself.
How you’ll actually learn this
One-to-one, on your own real work
A qualification is usually something done to you: sit the class, sit the exam, hope it sticks. Here it’s the opposite. You learn it one-to-one with a companion, on your own real work, and you keep going until you can use it, not just recall it.
Applied to your work in any of these jobs
Learners will develop an understanding of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology, including machine tool design, tooling and work holding, part programming, and operational control. The unit covers CNC machine components, axes of movement, and the advantages and limitations of CNC compared to manual machining.
- Remember
- Understand
- Apply
- Analyse
- Evaluate
- Create
Built for EAL Level 3 Diploma In Engineering Technologies
85 units in this credential, in the order it lists them, awarded by Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited.
- Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-
- Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
- Advanced Milling
- Advanced Personal Computer PC Maintenance
- Advanced Turning
- Aircraft Maintenance and Manufacturing Engineering Procedures
and 79 more in the full unit list below.
One to one, not one to many
No two people run this the same way
A course is written once and handed to everyone. This is assembled around you, and keeps changing as it learns you. Five things it reads, and what each one changes.
- Your actual work Every unit is taught against a live piece of your own work, not a worked example from a textbook.
- What you already know The first conversation finds your starting point, so you skip what you can already do and spend the time on what you cannot.
- The conditions you learn under Not a learning-styles quiz. The evidence does not support those. The dimensions the research does back, read once and used to shape the plan.
- How far you got last time It picks up mid-thought. The tutor knows what you said, what you struggled with, and what it asked you to try.
- Which tutor suits the moment Twelve of them, each for a different kind of thinking. The one who walks you through a first idea is not the one who stress-tests it.
See how you learn, free. Eight questions, no sign-up. A directional taster; the diagnostic inside Zavmo goes deeper and keeps adapting.
Why it sticks
Most courses stop at remembering
There’s a well-known ladder of how deeply you learn something, called Bloom’s Taxonomy. Most courses get you up the first two rungs: you remember some facts, you pass a test, you forget it. Real skill lives at the top. Judging, deciding, creating. And this isn’t a generic ladder: every rung has a named Zavmo tutor who walks you up it.
- 6CreateThe Creative Catalyst
- 5EvaluateThe Evidence Evaluator
- 4AnalyseThe Analyst
- 3ApplyThe Coach
- 2UnderstandThe Connector
- 1RememberThe Builder
Where most courses leave you Where Zavmo takes you
The value
Why the companion is worth £70 a month
You’re not paying for the units. They’re regulated, and the same wherever you earn them. You’re paying for the one thing that decides whether you actually get there: a companion that makes them stick, on your real work.
That is one-to-one on this qualification, every day, on the work you already do, for £70 a month. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it. Billed monthly, cancel any time and billing stops.
Earned on your own work, taught to the top.
Everything you just read, learned one-to-one on the job you already do. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it.
Build my plan, freeNo card. See how this qualification maps onto your role and meet the tutors who’d teach it, free. The learning begins when you subscribe. It’s £70 a month, billed monthly. Cancel any time and billing stops.