SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Weld steel workpieces, using the plasma arc welding process in all positions 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
243051  Weld steel workpieces, using the plasma arc welding process in all positions 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Welding 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  20 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is for a learner within the fabrication and welding fields.

A person credited with this unit standard is capable of:
  • Describing the plasma arc welding process.
  • Selecting, setting up and conducting pre-operational checks of plasma arc welding equipment.
  • Preparing workpieces prior to welding.
  • Welding workpieces.
  • Inspecting welded work piece for defects in compliance with drawing specifications.
  • Caring for and storing welding consumables and equipment.

    This unit standard will contribute to the full development of any learner by providing recognition, further mobility and transportability within the field. The knowledge, skills and understanding demonstrated in this unit standard are essential for social and economic transformation and upliftment within the fabrication and welding environment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learning relevant to Welding Application and Practice Level 3, or alternatively:
  • "Weld workpieces with the gas tungsten arc welding process in a downhand position"
  • "Welding carbon steel workpieces using the gas welding process in all positions" 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    Range of materials used for the purpose of assessment may be chosen in terms of ISO (TR) 15608, viz:
  • Any carbon steel-type (plate only), applicable to the material groups 1, 2, 3 or 11.
  • Any stainless steel-type applicable to material groups 8 or 10.
  • Material thickness: Minimum - 1,6mm.

    Context:
  • All work undertaken must comply with Occupational Health and Safety Act.
  • All work done must comply with worksite practices.
  • All work done under limited supervision.

    Level:
    Level (for level 4)

    A learning programme leading to the award of this unit standard should develop learners who demonstrate:
  • A range of well-developed skills.
  • An ability to offer a significant choice of procedures.
  • Some relevant theoretical knowledge.
  • An ability to interpret available information.
  • An ability to respond to familiar problems.
  • An ability to function with significant responsibility. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Describe and explain the plasma arc welding equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The importance of correct assembly of the plasma arc welding equipment, and the consequences of incorrect assembly, is explained with reference to manufacturer's requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Basic and major components of the plasma arc welding equipment are identified and the explanation of function and purpose is correct in terms of vendor requirements and standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Parts and components correctly identified and the implications for incorrect identification explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Terms and definitions used are consistent with generally accepted welding terminology as recorded in international welding standards. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Parts include:
  • Suitable power source, earth clamp, welding cable, inert gas, flow meter, hose clamps, welding torch and consumables.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Select, assemble and conduct pre-operational checks of plasma arc welding equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Verification, identification and selection of plasma arc welding equipment and accessories as per job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Identification and rectification of hazards relating to welding process in accordance with standard work site practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Pre-operational checks are carried out in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    A safe worksite is created to prevent damage to equipment and injury to people. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Weld and gas flow parameters including polarity are established to satisfy job requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Resources to include:
  • Manufacturer's specifications, worksite practices, safety and current environmental legislation.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Plasma is identified, selected and prepared to specification and job requirement. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Prepare workpiece prior to welding. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Workpiece prepared prior to welding as specified on drawing and worksite practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Dimensions and alignment checked as specified on drawing. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Workpiece tack welded in position as per drawing specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Safety precautions adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Inspect workpiece prior to welding. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Worksite practices, tools, equipment, safety requirements and materials.
     

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Weld workpiece. 
    OUTCOME NOTES 
    Despite the minimum material thickness as specified in the range statement, learners have to display sufficient competency for groove welding. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Welding filler material, electrodes and gas selected as per job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Workpiece welded in a fixed position as per job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Safety precautions adhered to during welding process. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Workpiece cleaned after welding as per worksite practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Potential causes for welding defects/imperfections are identified prior to welding and action taken to meet job requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Scope:
    Welding technique, consumable handling.

    Range of materials used for the purpose of assessment may be chosen in terms of ISO (TR) 15608, viz:
  • Any carbon steel-type (plate only), applicable to the material groups 1, 2, 3 or 11.
  • Any stainless steel-type applicable to material groups 8 or 10.
  • Material thickness: Minimum - 1,6mm.

    Other important factors include heat input, metal transfer mode, electrode size, joint preparation, welding technique, consumable handling and gas shielding.

    Resources include:

    Welding equipment, tools, protective clothing and equipment, welding procedure specification, materials as specified on drawings and weld filler material.

    Welding positions include:

    Fillet welding:
  • Flat/Horizontal
  • Vertical
  • Overhead

    Groove welding:
  • Flat/Horizontal
  • Vertical
  • Overhead
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Inspect welded plate for defects. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    All welding spatters removed as specified in cleaning procedure. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Welded work conforms to job specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Inspection methods and procedures selected are conducive to specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Documentation completed as reflected in worksite practices. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Procedures include:
  • Worksite practices, inspection methods, and cleaning procedures.
  • Welded joints acceptance criteria to be in accordance with a national and/or international welding standard.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Care for and store welding consumables and equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Tools and equipment cared for as per manufacturer's specifications and stored as per worksite practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Welding consumables stored in accordance with worksite practices. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be accredited in terms of the criteria laid down by the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines in the relevant qualification and the agreed ETQA procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Names and functions of:
  • Plasma arc welding equipment and accessories.
  • Consumables.
  • Personal protective equipment.

    Attributes, descriptions, characteristics and properties:
  • Types of metals and their properties.
  • Types of plasma processes and their characteristics.
  • Common defects.
  • Hazards.
  • Weld-ability of different types of steels.

    Purpose of:
  • Plasma arc welding.
  • Safety checks.
  • Reporting incidents and conditions.
  • Checking completed weld.

    Sensory cues:
  • Smell indicating gas leaks.
  • Smell indicating overheating equipment.

    Processes, events, causes and effects, implications:
  • Implications of using incorrect gas.
  • Implications of using incorrect gas flow rates.
  • Causes and responses to defects.
  • Welding process.
  • Implications of not preparing workpiece before welding.

    Procedures and techniques:
  • Set up procedures for plasma arc welding.
  • Plasma arc welding procedure.
  • Preparation for welding metals.
  • Safety procedures.
  • Quality procedures.
  • Checking procedure.
  • Recording and reporting procedures.
  • Non-destructive and destructive testing procedures and methods.
  • Storage procedures.

    Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies, standards:
  • Applicable safety, health and environmental protection legislation and standards.

    Theory: rules, principles, laws:
  • Applicable welding theory covering plasma arc processes.

    Relationships, systems:
  • Relationship of the consumables and the equipment to the metals. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems:
  • Recognise problems of equipment and process while welding and respond appropriately.
  • Defects are recognised and corrected.
  • Hazards are recognised and preventative action taken. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work together with others:
  • Contribute to workgroup efforts. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage myself and my activities:
  • Plan sequence of operations based on job instructions and set up equipment appropriately. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information:
  • Visually examine and conduct tests on completed weld to control quality. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively:
  • Record outcome of work.
  • Report outcome of work to appropriate personnel. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically:
  • Properties of metals.
  • Electrical and mechanical principles.
  • Principles of expansion and contraction. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems:
  • Explain the relationship between the physical properties and the weld ability of the material. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    This unit standard may be obtained through RPL. The learner should be thoroughly briefed on the mechanism to be used and support and guidance should be provided. Care should be taken that the mechanism used provides the learner with an opportunity to demonstrate competence and is not so onerous as to prevent learners from taking up the RPL option towards gaining a qualification.

    Notes to assessors:

    Assessors should keep the following general principles in mind when designing and conducting assessments against this unit standard:
  • Focus the assessment activities on gathering evidence in terms of the main outcome expressed in the title to ensure assessment is integrated rather than fragmented. Remember we want to declare the person competent in terms of the title. Where assessments at title level are unmanageable, then focus assessment around each specific outcome, or groups of specific outcomes.
  • Make sure evidence is gathered across the entire range, wherever it applies. Assessment activities should be as close to the real performance as possible, and where simulations or role-plays are used, there should be supporting evidence to show the candidate is able to perform in the real situation.
  • Do not focus the assessment activities on each assessment criterion. Rather make sure the assessment activities focus on outcomes and are sufficient to enable evidence to be gathered around all the assessment criteria.
  • The assessment criteria provide the specifications against which assessment judgements should be made. In most cases, knowledge can be inferred from the quality of the performances, but in other cases, knowledge and understanding will have to be tested through questioning techniques. Where this is required, there will be assessment criteria to specify the standard required.
  • The task of the assessor is to gather sufficient evidence, of the prescribed type and quality, as specified in this unit standard, that the candidate can achieve the outcomes again and again and again. This means assessors will have to judge how many repeat performances are required before they believe the performance is reproducible.
  • All assessments should be conducted in line with the following well documented principles of assessment: appropriateness, fairness, manageability, integration into work or learning, validity, directness, authenticity, sufficiency, openness and consistency. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  57887   Further Education and Training Certificate: Welding Application and Practice  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.