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: 

Construct simple electro-pneumatic/hydraulic circuits 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
376604  Construct simple electro-pneumatic/hydraulic circuits 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes 
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 replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
12224  Construct simple electro-pneumatic/hydraulic circuits  Level 3  NQF Level 03  12   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
Learners accredited with this standard will have knowledge of the principles of pneumatics and hydraulics, be able to explain the use and function of pneumatic and hydraulic components, troubleshoot the pneumatic and hydraulic systems and explain the design and construction of basic pneumatic and hydraulic circuitry. The standard involves the application of both the theory and skills to achieve autotronics-specific outcomes.

Learners credited with this standard will be able to:
  • Discuss the principles of pneumatics.
  • Explain the use of pneumatic components.
  • Discuss the principles of hydraulics.
  • Explain the use and functions of components for hydraulics.
  • Troubleshoot the hydraulic system.
  • Troubleshoot the pneumatic system.
  • Explain the design and construction of basic pneumatic circuitry.
  • Explain the design and construction of basic hydraulic circuitry. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Communication at NQF Level 3.
  • Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 3.
  • Unit Standard 13139-Install, test and maintain a basic pneumatic system at NQF Level 3.
  • Unit Standard 260723-Install, test and maintain a basic fluid power system at NQF Level 3. 

  • UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    N/A 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Discuss the principles of pneumatics. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The concept of pneumatics is explained in terms of its history and modern usage. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The operation of a pneumatic system is explained by identifying and describing the functions of its main components. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Components include compressor, valves, actuator, cylinder and exhaust.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The use of pneumatics in a factory is illustrated through examples. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The compressor is discussed in terms of how it works and its function in the air supply system in a factory. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Compressors are described in terms of their differences. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Types include screw type compressor, sliding vane compressor, roots compressor and turbo/turbine-compressors.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The air service unit is described in terms of it various parts. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Parts include regulator, air filter, and lubricator.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Symbols include filters, dryers, storage, gauges and sensors. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    The distribution and connectivity of air supply is discussed in relation to the various stages and challenges involved. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Symbols used in pneumatics are identified and the functions of the components that they represent are discussed. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Explain the use of pneumatic components. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Sensors are discussed as input elements and the different types of sensors are described. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Sensors include proximity sensor, photoelectric sensor and limit switch.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The use of directional and non-return control valves is discussed with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Check valves, junction elements (AND Valve and OR Valve).
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Directional valves are discussed in term of their symbols and lettering. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Valve actuation is discussed in relation to the various categories. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    The categories include manual, mechanical, pressure and electricity.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Control by pneumatic control elements is explained using examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Control elements include flow control valves, pressure regulating valves, pressure limiting valves, safety valves, sequencing valves and time delay valves.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Final control by pneumatic actuators is discussed with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Actuators include linear actuators, rotary actuators and compressed air motors.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Pneumatic related quantities are determined using calculations. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Discuss the principles of hydraulics. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The physical principles of hydraulics are explained using Pascal's Law and Bernoulli's principle. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The term hydraulics is defined in terms of related concepts. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Related concepts include hydro-mechanics, hydro-statics, and hydrodynamics.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Hydrostatic pressure is explained using a formula. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Hydraulic fluids are discussed in terms of their purpose and physical characteristics. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Various related hydraulic quantities are determined by calculation. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Hydraulic quantities include power transmission, displacement transmission, pressure transfer and flow rate.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The power supply system of hydraulic applications is explained using formulae. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Explain the use and functions of components for hydraulics. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The function, operation and construction of valves used in hydraulic systems are explained with examples. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Valves include directional control valves, non-return valves, flow control valves and pressure relief valve.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Directional valves are discussed in term of their symbols and lettering. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Non-return valves are discussed in terms of their types. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Types include pilot controlled valves, pressure relief valves and restrictor valve.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Hydraulic cylinders and hydraulic motors are discussed in terms of their function and construction. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The interactions of hydraulic elements are explained through their various applications. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Troubleshoot the hydraulic system. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Causes and effects of malfunctions on hydraulic systems are discussed in terms of their implications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    A circuit diagram of the hydraulic system is read and interpreted in order to identify the fault. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Various diagnostic charts are used to identify and resolve the problem. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Maintenance, troubleshooting and commissioning activities are performed in accordance with procedure. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Troubleshoot the pneumatic system. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Causes and effects of malfunctions on pneumatic systems are discussed in terms of their implications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Required documentation used in pneumatic applications is identified and used as per procedure. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Preventative maintenance procedures as used in pneumatic systems are discussed in terms of their benefits. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Documentation includes clear system layout with labelled valves and lines, circuit diagram, list of components, displacement-step diagram, operating instructions, installation and maintenance manuals, list of spare parts for critical items.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Troubleshooting procedures as used in pneumatics are described and used to prevent downtime. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Commissioning procedures as used in pneumatics are described to facilitate maintenance and fault-finding. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 7 
    Explain the design and construction of basic pneumatic circuitry. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Symbols used for each element in pneumatics are described to show what they represent. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The basics of pneumatic control systems are explained diagrammatically and its constituent parts described. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Pneumatic circuit layouts are explained to show how the various elements relate to each other. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Various circuit diagrams are interpreted and described as per procedure. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The direct and indirect control of a pneumatic cylinder is explained in relation to their differences and advantages. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Pneumatic related logic functions are described to demonstrate how they are used in application. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The systematic approach to the pneumatic circuit is explained in terms of several aspects. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Aspects include the circuit diagram, the path-step chart, and the flow chart.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Single acting pneumatic control circuits are developed and connected to show why and how various elements are used in certain applications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Signal elimination by reversing valves/group selector valves (GSV) is explained to show how problems can be solved. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
    The cascading of pneumatic cylinders is discussed to show how it can help to design a circuit. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 11 
    All work is performed with due regard for and adherence to safety practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 12 
    Multiple actuator circuits/cascade systems are connected and tested to see if they function according to the flow chart. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 8 
    Explain the design and construction of basic hydraulic circuitry. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Hydraulic related element symbols and circuit layout are explained in terms of the components they represent. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Hydraulic control and function diagrams are developed for various applications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The construction and purpose of the related hydraulic accessories are discussed in terms of their functions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Various hydraulic circuit applications are connected and tested according to procedure. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual unit standards as well as the integrated competence described in the qualification. 

  • UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • Names and functions of:
    > Auto related pneumatic/hydraulic operations.
    > Leakage tests.
    > System components.
    > Solenoids.
  • Purpose of:
    > Electro-pneumatic/hydraulic auto applications.
  • Attributes, descriptions, characteristics and properties:
    > Characteristics of liquid and air under pressure.
  • Sensory cues:
    > Use of sight to check for leakage tests.
  • Processes, events, causes, effects and implications:
    > Implications of not using personal protection.
    > Implications of not following procedure.
  • Procedures and techniques:
    > Safety procedures.
    > Testing procedures.
    > Construction procedures.
    > Documentation procedures.
  • Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies and standards:
    > Colour coding of power lines.
    > Applicable safety, health and environmental legislations.
  • Theory: rules, principles and laws:
    > Pascal's pressure laws.
  • Relationships and systems:
    > Relationship of electro-pneumatic/hydraulic applications to that of the automobile. 

  • UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsively and effectively when constructing pneumatic circuitry. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others by applying the required safety, health and environmental regulations while maintaining and repairing the pneumatic and hydraulic systems. 

    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 replaces unit standard 12224, "Construct simple electro-pneumatic/hydraulic circuits", Level 3, 12 credits. 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  78883   Further Education and Training Certificate: Autotronics  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  MERSETA 


    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.