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: 

Produce a welded pipe fabrication assembly using butt and socket fittings 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
253558  Produce a welded pipe fabrication assembly using butt and socket fittings 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Generic Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 3  NQF Level 03  12 
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 
The purpose of this unit standard is to give learners in this sub-field, the skills, values and knowledge required, in order to participate effectively within a pipe-fitting and fabrication environment.

The qualifying learner achieving this unit standard in combination with context expertise standard(s) will be able to assemble welded pipe fabrications using butt and socket fittings in accordance with the applicable industry code of practice.

The learning outcomes in this unit standard are also able to contribute to the exit level outcomes required for related NQF Level 3 qualifications.

Qualifying learners are able to:
  • Identify, discuss and explain welded pipe fabrications.
  • Plan and prepare to produce welded pipe fabrications.
  • Assemble a welded pipe fabrication.
  • Use, maintain and care for tools and equipment.

    It also reflects the understanding of:
  • Pipe components and pipe systems.
  • The operation of the plant or engineering system where applicable.

    This unit standard would be assessed in the context of:
  • A plant or engineering system within the workplace.
  • Any process controlled environment.
  • Fluid flow systems related to utilities other than domestic systems.

    The skills, knowledge and values reflected in this unit standard form part of the Exit Level Outcomes required for the National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Pipe-Fitting): NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    This unit standard has been designed as part of a progression. It is one of a series of unit standards for machine and equipment maintenance in the engineering area.

    The credits allocated to this unit standard assume that a learner has already learned to assemble mechanical components, static seals, and sling loads safely. 

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The ranges as indicated under the specific outcomes determine the scope and level of this unit standard.

    However for the purpose of assessment, pipes, fittings and pipe-line devices include but are not limited to the following environment contexts:
  • Manufacturing and Engineering (Metals, Plastics, Tyre and Rubber, Electrical Power Generation, Automotive Manufacturing).
  • Chemical and Petrochemical.
  • Mining.
  • Transport (Maritime, Road, Rail and Aviation).
  • Civil Engineering and Construction.
  • Food and Beverages.
  • Water and Waste Water.

    For the purpose of assessment:
  • The process fluid medium may include any one type, namely water, oil and/or gas.
  • Pipes include but are not limited to carbon steel and carbon steel alloys, stainless steel, cast steel, galvanised steel and copper.
  • Associated fittings include bends, elbows, Tee pieces, Y pieces, flanges and all applicable valves and couplings.
  • Valves include flow control valves, pressure sustaining valves, air-relief valves, pressure relief valves, pressure reducing valves, steam traps, filters, strainers and non-return valves.
  • Safety equipment: Gloves, goggles, overalls, protective boots, earplugs, safety helmet, torch-light and breathing aids.
  • Tools and equipment: All prescribed tools associated with tasks.
  • Legislation: OHS Act and Regulations.
  • Records/ Reports: Permit to work, safety task assignments, work instructions, drawings, log books, accident reports, injury reports, incident reports, job cards.
  • Pipe joining methods include arc welding and/or gas welding/brazing processes using butt and socket fittings.

    The learner should be able to:
  • Work autonomously with minimal supervision and according to worksite and manufacturer specifications and occupational safety, health and environmental legislation.
  • Work in a workshop, plant or underground environment with varying levels of light, space and safety risks.
  • Work is carried out in a team environment. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Identify, discuss and explain welded pipe fabrications. 
    OUTCOME NOTES 
    This outcome covers the knowledge required in order to identify and explain:
  • Classifications and types of pipe systems and/or components.
  • Applications (pipe-types, flange-types, butt and socket fittings).
  • Distinct features and characteristics of various types.
  • Accommodation for expansion and contraction.
  • Purpose of inspection and quality assurance procedures. 
    		•
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Pipe components and equipment include but are not limited to:
  • Pipe fittings (butt and socket types).
  • Associated fittings include bends, elbows, Tee pieces, Y pieces, flanges and all applicable valves and couplings.
  • Specialised pipe-fitting tools, namely pipe-cutter, pipe-reamer, beam clamps, pipe t-square, fit-up clamps and the applicable power tools.

    Understanding confirmed:

    Respond to `what if` and `why` questions related to:
  • The basic principles of the joining of welded pipe fabrications using butt and socket fittings.
  • Tack-welding of the welded pipe fabrication.
  • Reasons for using the butt and socket pipe-fittings and associated devices.
  • The implications of not following safe working procedures.
  • Assembly techniques.
  • The selection of components and why.
  • The importance of continuously checking the quality of work against the requirements of the job.
  • The health, safety and environmental issues pertaining to pipe system maintenance.
  • What tools and equipment to use and why.
  • Steps to take to limit waste.
  • The importance of caring for and storing system maintenance tools and equipment.
  • Explain the implications of not adhering to the sequence of activities and operations as described in the specific outcomes and making decisions inappropriate to the task. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The classifications and types of pipe-fittings and associated components are identified and discussed. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The applications and the distinct features and characteristics of various pipe-fittings and associated components are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The purpose of using specific welded pipe-fabrication methods is discussed and explained in terms of worksite practice and plant design specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The terminology used when explaining and discussing welded pipe-fabrication methods and associated components, is in keeping with manufacturer and worksite norms and standards. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Plan and prepare to produce welded pipe-fabrications. 
    OUTCOME NOTES 
    Planning and preparation includes reading and understanding task instructions, engineering drawings and shut-down scheduling, where applicable. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The pipes, butt and socket fittings and other pipeline devices are procured, prepared and inspected according to work instructions and pipe drawings. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Procurement includes the drafting of a bill of materials and requisitioning.

    Preparation of piping includes:
  • Cleaning of pipes and pipe-fittings.
  • Bevelling of pipe-ends.
  • Root face (Landings).
  • Alignment.
  • Determining root gaps.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The process for producing the welded pipe-fabrication assembly is explained, in accordance with a work procedure or instructions. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
  • Interpretation of drawing specifications (includes welding symbols and orientation).
  • Interpretation of welding procedure specification (WPS).
  • Identification of pipe code punching.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The site and equipment are prepared for producing the welded pipe fabrication assembly in accordance with work instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Welded pipe-fabrication equipment and resources are correct for the task, available on site by the agreed time, and checked for serviceability in accordance with regulatory and worksite practices. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
  • Welded pipe-fabrication equipment may include arc welding and/or oxy-fuel equipment for tack-welding.
  • Resources include personnel requirements, tools, equipment, vehicle/s for transport and mechanical handling, support materials, applicable documentation and personal protective equipment.
  • Provision of pipe alignment tools, strong-backs, dogs and wedges.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Handling space is cleared, potential obstructions are removed and personnel are notified, prior to the assembly of the welded pipe fabrication, according to work-site procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    All work is performed safely with due care for self, fellow workers, machines, equipment, materials and environment. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Indicators:
  • Pipe and pipe components are identified according to pipe drawings.
  • Pipe system is isolated in accordance with approved procedures.
  • System is depressurised following manufacturer specifications.
  • Provisions for working in a hazardous location are implemented to regulatory and worksite procedures (spark containment procedures are implemented).
  • Working principles of components are accurately explained.
  • Applicable consumables, lubricants and cleaning agents are acquired in the required quantities.
  • Components requiring service are identified and removed without damage to the system or component where applicable.
  • The preparation of pipes and pipe fittings are inspected according to quality assurance procedures. 
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Assemble the welded pipe-fabrication. 
    OUTCOME NOTES 
  • The assembly of the welded pipe fabrication includes the fitting-up, alignment for tack-welding of the piping, butt and socket fittings and other pipe-line devices.
  • Inspection of the tack-welded assembly must be performed prior to welding.
  • Assessment of this outcome is restricted to fit-up, alignment, assembly, preparation for tack-welding and inspection procedures only. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Pipes, fittings and other pipeline devices are joined according to the work instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The welded pipe-fabrication assembly is checked for conformance with the pipe drawing and related specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Non-conforming pipe components and assembly sections are identified and corrective action taken according to pipe drawings and related specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION NOTES 
    Non-conformance could be related to incorrect bevel angles, root faces, root gap and misalignment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    All work is performed safely with due care for self, fellow workers, machines, equipment, materials and environment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Work area is restored to a safe and serviceable condition. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The welded pipe-fabrication assembly is inspected after tack welding, recorded and reported according to work-site practices. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Use, maintain and care for tools and equipment. 
    OUTCOME RANGE 
    Tools and equipment include absorbent material, hand tools and cleaning equipment, fluids, lifting equipment and tackle. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The proper care and storage procedures for tools and equipment are explained, in accordance with work site practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Work area is restored to a safe and serviceable condition. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Tools, equipment, lifting equipment and tackle is stored in accordance with work-site practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Malfunctioning tools and equipment is reported and the necessary arrangements for the repair thereof is made according to accepted worksite practice. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
  • Completion of maintenance/service is confirmed and verified.
  • Visual plant care inspection is carried out to work-site procedures.
  • System performance is confirmed to meet operational requirements.
  • Work is carried out in a safe manner in accordance with schedules and manufacturer specifications.
  • Problems are reported to appropriate personnel.
  • A clean and tidy work environment is maintained.
  • No delays are caused as a result of poor planning for performing welded pipe-fabrication procedures.
  • System and equipment condition report is accurate, clear and processed.
  • Applicable health, safety and environmental procedures are adhered to.
     
    		•


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • The assessment will be governed by the policies and guidelines of the relevant ETQA which has jurisdiction over this field of learning. The assessor will be registered and have a technical qualification in this learning area.
  • The learner can be assessed in the language of his/her choice although s/he has to report incidents or conditions to someone else. The learner will be assessed on his/her ability to report in the language commonly used in his/her working environment.
  • The learner will be assessed in the workplace but s/he can submit documents, projects, test results and assignments that were not produced in the workplace.
  • The learner can be assessed against this unit standard to obtain credits or as part of an integrated assessment for a qualification. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Names and functions of:
  • Material type characteristics.
  • Pipes and pipe components.
  • Consumables, lubricants, cleaning agents used.
  • Equipment on which the welded pipe-fabrication is performed.
  • Associated tools and equipment.

    Attributes, descriptions, characteristics and properties:
  • Typical system defects.
  • End users of the system.
  • Strength of materials.
  • Passivation procedures (stainless steel pipe).

    Sensory cues:
  • Sensory cues (what I see, hear, smell, feel) utilised for identifying problems during welded pipe-fabrication.

    Purpose of:
  • Passivation materials.
  • Individual components in the system.
  • Making system safe.
  • Following welded pipe-fabrication procedures.
  • Interpreting instruction.
  • Adhering to welded pipe-fabrication methods.
  • Adhering to safety, health and environmental legislation.
  • Signing off the task instruction.
  • Reporting non-conformances, incidents and problems.
  • System earth-protection.

    Processes, events, causes and effects, implications:
  • Implications of overlooking welded pipe-fabrication defects.
  • Acquiring required lubricants, consumables and cleaning agents.
  • Performing welded pipe-fabrication processes.
  • Implications of not adhering to safety, health and environmental legislation.
  • Making pipe system safe.
  • Causes and responses to common problems.

    Procedures and techniques:
  • Making system safe.
  • Servicing components.
  • Performing visual inspections.
  • For minimising wastage.
  • Identifying problems.
  • Identify and select required components.
  • Reporting on system operation.
  • Handling and storage of components.
  • Isolation technique and procedure.
  • Posture during hand tool usage.
  • Applying pressure.
  • Communication procedures.
  • Applicable recording and reporting procedures.
  • Applicable safe working procedures.
  • Applicable quality assurance procedures.
  • Removing and replacing defective components.
  • System earth-protection, regulations, legislation, agreements, policies, standards.
  • Applicable safety, health and environmental protection legislation.
  • Applicable company policies and procedures.

    Theory: rules, principles, laws:
  • Different pressures/flows.
  • Equipment operating principles.
  • Equipment used for welded pipe-fabrication.
  • Associated engineering principles.
  • Pressure, temperature and volumetric rules of physics (Thermodynamics).
  • Pipe disassembly, assembly.
  • Inspecting for wear and damage.
  • Flange-face seating.
  • Determining pipe system flow and pressure criteria.
  • Documenting and reporting fundamentals.
  • Earth leakage concept.

    Relationships, systems:
  • Relationship between maintained system and the production process. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems:
  • Related to the maintenance of pipe system. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team:
  • Interact with colleagues and team members in order to acquire required consumables, lubricants and cleaning agents. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage my activities and myself:
  • Apply the correct procedures and techniques for performing system maintenance.
  • Manage resources and my time. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information:
  • Interpret information off job instructions to maintain correct system.
  • Make decisions based on that information. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively:
  • Report condition of system. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems:
  • Understand and explain the purpose of system maintenance to the production process.
  • Justify my actions as appropriate. 
    		•

    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 
    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.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    Credits may be obtained by applying to an accredited/approved training provider/institution in order to have prior learning recognised in lieu of past work experience. Past experience must relate to the specific outcomes contained within this unit standard. The ensuing assessment of candidates seeking recognition of prior learning should not be so onerous as to deter them from doing so. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  59750   National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering: Pipe-Fitting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  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.