Materials Handling and Preparation

Course Content

Content is discussed using an informal delivery model to generate discussion within the group to mutually benefit from a range of industrial experiences in addition to those of the tutor.

Objectives of the course

On completion of the course the delegates will be able to:

• Describe what is meant by a plastic material
• Identify company specific materials used by their trade names and product codes
• Explain the molecular structure of plastics materials
• List common product faults created from faulty material handling practices
• State a range of additives used within modern plastics materials
• Explain the MFI (MFR) test procedure and the relevance of numbers obtained
• Detail common hopper loading methods and the equipment used
• Identify safety hazards associated with material handling activities
• Describe good material storage practices
• List various material drying methods and equipment stating situations for appropriate selection

Theoretical instruction is complimented with a variety of practical demonstrations covering areas such as correct usage and the cleaning of various types of drying equipment, hopper loaders and granulators together with production of test-piece samples that are then tested for mechanical performance exercises.

Individual candidate knowledge levels are assessed at the end of the course using a short multiple choice questionnaire, after which a results and feedback report is provided to help identify any further training requirements.

Qualification

PTL Material Handling & Preparation Certificate

Material covered has been aligned to the content of a Level 2 NVQ and can be used as underpinning knowledge towards achieving this award, if so desired.