EAL
Level 3
QN: 603/0375/X
Curriculum Active
EAL Level 3 Diploma in Rail Engineering Technician Knowledge
Official qualification regulated by Ofqual, awarded by EAL. Classified as a Vocationally-Related Qualification. Total guided learning hours: 1200 hours.
Qualification Level
Level 3
Awarding Body
EAL
Syllabus Units
20 Units
Guided Hours
1200 hrs
Instant access to interactive lessons, quizzes, and spaced revision.
Course Syllabus & Study Modules
Complete breakdown of verified curriculum topics and learning objectives.
1
Electrical and electronic principles
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Be able to use circuit theory to determine voltage, current and resistance in direct current (DC) circuits; 1.1 Use DC circuit theory to calculate current, voltage and resistance in DC net
- work; 1.2 Use a multimeter to carry out circuit measurements in a DC net
- Understand the concepts of capacitance and determine capacitance values in DC circuits; 2.1 compare the forward and reverse characteristics of different types of semiconductor diode; 2.2 describe the types and function of capacitors; 2.3 determine the relationship between the voltage and current for a charging and discharging capacitor.
- Know the principles and properties of magnetism; 3.1 Describe the characteristics of a magnetic field; 3.2 Describe the relationship between flux density (B) and field strength (H); 3.3 Describe the principles and applications of electromagnetic induction.
- Be able to use single-phase alternating current (AC) theory; 4.1 Use single phase AC circuit theory to determine the characteristics of a sinusoidal AC waveform; 4.2 Determine the inputs and outputs of a single phase AC circuit.
2
Engineering solutions and innovation
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand quality assurance management; 1.1 Define the terms ‘quality management’ and ‘quality assurance’; 1.2 Describe roles and stages of inspection activities; 1.3 Explain the key principles of the ISO 9000 series of standards; 1.4 Describe the elements of quality planning; 1.5 Describe the key principles of total quality management (TQM).
- Understand Workplace Improvement; 2.1 Identify tools used for continuous improvement within work areas; 2.2 Identify different wastes within work activities; 2.3 Explain cost effective ways to eliminate waste; 2.4 Describe the role of visual management in the workplace; 2.5 Describe the importance of standardised company documentation in the workplace.
- Understand the basic principles of project management; 3.1 Explain project lifecycle, the stages and factors of a project; 3.2 Explain project roles and responsibilities.; 3.3 Explain stakeholder management; 3.4 Explain how projects are controlled and managed; 3.5 Identify success factors for projects; 3.6 Explain why projects are reviewed.
- Understand problem solving; 4.1 Explain the principles of root ca
- use analysis; 4.2 Explain the importance of getting to the root ca
- use of problems; 4.3 Apply a structured procedure to problem solving; 4.4 Describe factors to be considered when proposing solutions to problems; 4.5 Explain the importance of monitoring the effectiveness of the corrective actions; 4.6 Explain to the importance of reviewing the problem solving process in order to achieve further improvements within the business.
3
Features and Application of Electrical Machines
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Know the electrical hazards and the legislation, regulations and standards related to working with electrical apparatus; 1.1 Identify the hazards that may exist when working withdifferent pieces of electrical apparatus; 1.2 Describe the control measures that should be used to reduce the risk of harm to self and others when working electrical apparatus; 1.3 describe the aspects of legislation, regulations and standards that relate to electrical apparatus.
- Understand alternating current (AC) machines; 2.1 explain the features, characteristics and application of AC motors; 2.2 Explain the features, characteristics and applications of AC generators; 2.3 Explain the features, characteristics and applications of transformers.
- Understand direct current (DC) machines; 3.1 explain the features, characteristics and applications of DC motors; 3.2 explain the features, characteristics and applications of DC generators.
- Know how electrical machine control circuits and systems operate; 4.1 Describe the operation and use of stop/start/retain relay control circuits for AC or DC machines.
4
Function and Characteristics of Railway Signalling Systems
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand the role of rail signalling within the railway system; 1.1 Describe the historical development of signalling systems; 1.2 Explain the purpose and scope of a signalling system within the rail system; 1.3 Explain the man-machine interfaces, their problems and how they are addressed; 1.4 Describe a signalling system lifecycle from design to decommissioning.
- Understand the principles of safety and high integrity systems as applied to a railway signalling system; 2.1 Explain the principles of high integrity engineering with reference to the components of a signalling system.
- Know the function and characteristics of line-side signalling elements; 3.1 Describe the application of principles throughout the signalling lifecycle; 3.2 Explain the function of elements, consequences of failure and risk mitigation for a given signalling application; 3.3 Describe the main line-side elements of a typical railway signalling system.
- Know the major sources and categories of controlled documentation, signalling information, notation and terminology; 4.1 Describe how information is obtained and the importance of documentation control; 4.2 Describe signalling abbreviations, symbols and definitions.
5
Mathematics for Engineering Technicians
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Be able to use algebraic methods; 1.1 Manipulate and simplify three algebraic expressions using the laws of indices and two using the laws of logarithms; 1.2 Solve a linear equation by plotting a straight-line graph using experimental data and use it to deduce the gradient, intercept and equation of the line; 1.3 factorise by extraction and grouping of a common factor from expressions with two, three and four terms respectively.
- Be able to use trigonometric methods and standard formula to determine areas; 2.1 solve circular and triangular measurement problems involving the use of radian, sine, cosine and tangent functions; 2.2 sketch each of the three trigonometric functions over a complete cycle; 2.3 produce answers to two practical engineering problems involving the sine and cosine rule; 2.4 use standard formulae to find surface areas and volumes of regular solids for three different examples respectively
- Be able to use statistical methods to display data; 3.1 collect data and produce statistical diagrams, histograms and frequency; 3.2 determine the mean, median and mode for two statistical problems and explain the relevance of each average as a measure of central tendency.
- Be able to use elementary calculus techniques; 4.1 Apply the basic rules of calculus arithmetic to solve three different types of function by differentiation and two different types of function by integration.
6
Mechanical Principles and applications
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Be able to determine the effects of loading in static engineering systems; 1.1 Calculate the magnitude, direction and position of the line of action of the resultant and equilibrant of a non-concurrent coplanar force system containing a minimum of four forces acting in different directions; 1.2 Calculate the support reactions of a simply supported beam carrying at least two concentrated loads and a uniformly distributed load; 1.3 Calculate the induced direct stress, strain and dimensional change in a component subjected to direct uniaxial loading and the shear stress and strain in a component subjected to shear loading.
- Be able to determine work, power and energy transfer in dynamic engineering systems; 2.1 Solve problems that require the application of kinetic and dynamic principles to determine unknown system parameters; 2.2 Determine the retarding force on a freely falling body when it impacts upon a stationary object and is brought to rest without rebound, in a given distance.
- Be able to determine the parameters of fluid systems; 3.1 Calculate the resultant thrust and overturning moment on a vertical rectangular retaining surface with one edge in the free surface of a liquid; 3.2 Determine the up-thrust on an immersed body; 3.3 Determine the thermal efficiency of a heat transfer process from given values of flow rate, temperature change and input power; 3.4 Use the continuity of volume and mass flow for an incompressible fluid to determine the design characteristics of a gradually tapering pipe.
- Be able to determine the effects of energy transfer in thermodynamic systems; 4.1 Calculate the dimensional change when a solid material undergoes a change in temperature and the heat transfer that accompanies a change of temperature and phase; 4.2 Solve problems that require application of thermodynamic process equations for a perfect gas to determine the unknown parameters of the problems; 4.3 Determine the force induced in a rigidly held component that undergoes a change in temperature.
7
Overground rail passenger comfort, safety and security
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand passenger safety and security systems; 1.1 Explain the importance of Closed Circuit Television systems and passenger information systems in terms of passenger security and comfort; 1.2 Explain the components used, technical requirements and their function in a typical Closed Circuit Television system; 1.3 Explain the different recording media used in typical Closed Circuit Television systems; 1.4 Explain the implications of using and maintaining a Closed Circuit Television system with respect the privacy of passengers; 1.5 Describe a typical Passenger Information System showing all of the key components including controllers, displays, passenger alarms and on train audio; 1.6 Describe of the relationship between passenger alarms and emergency brakes; 1.7 Describe the function and operation of Passenger Information System components and how fault finding is carried out on them; 1.8 Explain how automatic announcements are controlled on a typical Passenger Information System.
- Understand Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems; 2.1 Explain the principles of heat transfer in terms of conduction, convection and radiation; 2.2 Explain the relationship between temperature and pressure and how this relationship is used in HVAC systems; 2.3 Describe the components and their function in a typical rolling stock HVAC system; 2.4 Compare and contrast the different types of refrigeration including mechanical, chemical and venturi; 2.5 Describe the safety precautions to be used when working on and around HVAC systems; 2.6 Describe a typical electronic control unit for an HVAC used within rolling stock and any associated maintenance software; 2.7 Explain the environmental and legal implications of a release of refrigerant into the atmosphere.
- Understand train interior and exterior, saloon and cab door systems; 3.1 Explain the operating principles of electrical and pneumatic, exterior and interior, cab and saloon doors systems; 3.2 Explain the components, materials used and operational requirements of exterior cab and saloon doors systems; 3.3 Describe the electrical/ electronic methods used for the control and operation of exterior cab and saloon door systems; 3.4 List the safety devices fitted to exterior saloon doors and describe the operation of these devices; 3.5 Explain the term ‘wrong side failure’ and any implications that such a failure would have on the exterior saloon door system; 3.6 Demonstrate the ability to fault find on the cab and saloon interior and exterior door systems using downloads, diagnostic software, system schematics and MVB analysis if applicable; 3.7 Explain the importance a correct mechanical saloon door set up with regard to normal operation, safety implications and impact on the serviceability of door components; 3.8 Describe the differences between cab back wall doors and standard interior doors explaining the reasons for these differences and the different implications of any failures.
- Understand train toilet systems; 4.1 Explain the operating principles of a typical toilet system; 4.2 Explain the components that make up a toilet system and operational requirements of each component; 4.3 Describe any current legislation with regards to on train toilets and how this effects rolling stock design; 4.4 Describe any health and safety requirements of working on and changing components in any toilet system; 4.5 Describe the limitations of using fresh and waste water tanks, and explain any affect they may have on a Train Operating Company (TOC) diagram choice; 4.6 Write a planned maintenance programme for toilet systems listing the components to be inspected, any preventative maintenance and the inspection criteria.
- Understand train vehicle trim; 5.1 Describe a typical passenger counting system and explain the reasons why a Train Operating Company (TOC) would choose to install or use such a system; 5.2 Illustrate mathematically why a Train Operating Company (TOC) may request tha
8
Overground rail vehicle traction and associated systems
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand traction and rolling stock suspension systems; 1.1 Describe the design, construction, maintenance and operation of train suspension; 1.2 Describe the purpose of the different suspension systems fitted to trains; 1.3 Explain how failed suspension increases damage to both track and vehicles; 1.4 Compare conventional body/bogie mountings.
- Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock braking systems; 2.1 Describe the operation of a typical air/electric brake system; 2.2 Describe how a variable load valve works and what symptoms would become apparent in the event of failure; 2.3 Describe the various types of friction pad in use on traction and rolling stock; 2.4 Describe the operation of a wheel slide prevention system; 2.5 Describe the safety systems that can take over the operation of a train braking system in the event of operator error; 2.6 Describe why automatic sanding is necessary; 2.7 Explain the implications to the Train Operating Company (TOC) of a unit in service being unable to release brakes whilst on the line; 2.8 Explain the use of round train circuits and the implications of their failure.
- Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock axles, wheels and bearings; 3.1 Describe a typical wheelset, identifying all components; 3.2 Identify the different types of wheel profile and their specific use; 3.3 Describe the process of changing out a wheelsets as routine maintenance, identifying all risks associated with the operation; 3.4 Explain the risks associated with changing out a wheelsets; 3.5 Describe in situ test and inspection methods for Traction and rolling stock wheelsets; 3.6 Discuss the implications of a ‘flat’ on a wheelset; 3.7 Discuss ways in which wheelset life may be extended; 3.8 Explain the importance of a regular maintenance programme for traction and the implications of a delay in this.
- Understand AC electric power collection and transmission; 4.1 Describe AC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency; 4.2 Explain the construction and function of a typical high speed pantograph; 4.3 Describe what systems are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at neutral sections; 4.4 Describe how an AC vehicle’s main transformer works and the need for different voltage outputs; 4.5 Compare the performance, reliability characteristics and maintenance implications of AC and DC traction motors; 4.6 Describe the bonding and earth return requirements and arrangements for a typical 25kv traction unit; 4.7.
- Explain the principles of rheostatic/regenerative braking.
- Understand the fundamentals of DC Electric power collection and transmission; 5.1 Describe DC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency; 5.2 Describe typical 750V DC collection equipment; 5.3 Describe the systems that are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at section gaps; 5.4 Describe how the speed of DC traction motors is controlled; 5.5 Describe the main performance issues resulting from sub-zero temperatures and snowfall; 5.6 Describe how a traction unit operating on a DC electrified railway may utilise AC traction motors; 5.7 Describe the earth return and bonding requirements for a typical 750V DC traction unit.
- Understand diesel hydraulic and diesel electric power generation and transmission; 6.1 Explain the operation of a diesel engine; 6.2 Describe how a diesel engines performance is controlled, showing mathematically how operation of the control system produces a variation in power output; 6.3 Describe mathematically how the performance of a turbo charger affects the performance of a diesel engine; 6.4 Describe with the aid of diagrams how a diesel hydraulic power unit operates; 6.5 Describe with the aid of diagrams how a diesel electric power unit operates; 6.6 Describe a planned annual preventative maintenance programme for a diesel engine listing the components to be inspected and the periodic
9
Overhead line Infrastructure Construction and Maintenance
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Know the preparatory activities required for the construction of overhead line infrastructure; 1.1 Describe the legal and financial frame
- work applicable to a project for the development of a new section of overhead line infrastructure; 1.2 Describe the development process required for a new build or renewal within a railway overhead line environment.
- Know the scope of earth
- work activities that may be undertaken in association with overhead line infrastructure; 2.1 Describe the methodology used for an overhead line earthworks project, including the plant and equipment required; 2.2 Describe the importance of foundations for the construction of overhead line structures.
- Understand the forms of construction and material specifications used in overhead line infrastructure; 3.1 Explain the essential design principles for overhead line geometry; 3.2 Describe the construction methods for initial placement and subsequent maintenance activities to ensure overhead line position and geometry; 3.3 Describe the materials and quality control processes required to ensure the provision of suitable and sustainable overhead line construction material and waste material disposal.
- Understand overhead line maintenance processes used to identify and correct defects; 4.1 Describe the maintenance issues that need to be considered to determine rail infrastructure integrity; 4.2 Explain how rail infrastructure defects are identified and the prescribed remedial action for each.
10
Rail Electrification Technologies
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand mechanical systems; 1.1 Describe the purpose and application of lubricants; 1.2 Describe the operation and maintenance of lubrication systems; 1.3 Describe the operation of seals, packaging and bearings; 1.4 Describe the operation of different types of cam and follower and linkage mechanisms; 1.5 Describe the arrangement and operation of transmission shaft and coupling, clutch and brakes; 1.6 Describe the layout and operation of a pneumatic actuation systems, hydraulic actuation systems and manual handling systems; 1.7 Describe the layout and operation of power generation plant, refrigeration and air conditioning systems applied to substations.
- Understand materials in the rail environment; 2.1 Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering; 2.2 Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering; 2.3 Describe the principles of the modes of failure.
- Understand the function of High Voltage and Low Voltage Switchgear; 3.1 Explain the purpose, operation and application of switchgear; 3.2 Explain the importance of switchgear to plant safety and the requirement to use specialist tools; 3.3 Identify hazards associated with maintenance activities on switchgear; 3.4 Identify switchgear component failure modes and causes; 3.5 Describe types and identification of HV and LV cabling.
11
Rail Overhead Line Technologies (Construction)
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand basic surveying techniques; 1.1 Identify linear surveying terminology and equipment; 1.2 Identify levelling surveying terminology and equipment; 1.3 Carry out linear surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings; 1.4 Carry out levelling surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings; 1.5 Identify angular terminology and equipment.
- Understand materials in the rail environment; 2.1 Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering; 2.2 Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering; 2.3 Describe the principles of the modes of failure.
- Understand electrical systems in the rail environment; 3.1 Describe the types and function of capacitors; 3.2 Explain the relationship between the voltage and current for a charging and discharging capacitor; 3.3 Describe the characteristics of a magnetic field; 3.4 Describe the principles and applications of electromagnetic induction; 3.5 Determine the characteristics of a sinusoidal AC waveform using single phase AC circuit theory; 3.6 Use test equipment to test AC circuits; 3.7 Compare the results of adding and subtracting two sinusoidal AC waveforms graphically and by phasir diagram.
12
Rail Overhead Line Technologies (maintenance)
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand basic surveying techniques; 1.1 Identify linear surveying terminology and equipment; 1.2 Identify levelling surveying terminology and equipment; 1.3 Carry out linear surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings; 1.4 Carry out levelling surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings; 1.5 Identify angular terminology and equipment.
- Understand materials in the rail environment; 2.1 Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering; 2.2 Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering; 2.3 Describe the principles of the modes of failure.
- Understand electrical systems in the rail environment; 3.1 Calculate the magnitude, direction and position of the line of action of the resultant and equilibrant of a non-concurrent coplanar force system containing an minimum of four forces acting in different directions; 3.2 Calculate the support reactions of a simply supported beam carrying at least two concentrated loads and a uniformly distributed load; 3.3 Calculate the induced direct stress, strain and dimensional change in a component subjected to a direct uniaxial loading and the shear stress and strain in a component subjected to shear loading.
13
Rail Technologies
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand basic surveying techniques; 1.1 Identify linear surveying terminology and equipment; 1.2 Identify levelling surveying terminology and equipment; 1.3 Carry out linear surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings; 1.4 Carry out levelling surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings; 1.5 Identify angular terminology and equipment.
- Understand materials in the rail environment; 2.1 Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering; 2.2 Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering; 2.3 Describe the principles of the modes of failure; 2.4 Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering.
- Understand mechanical systems in the rail environment; 3.1 Describe the purpose and application of lubricants; 3.2 Describe the operation and maintenance of lubrication systems; 3.3 Describe the operation of seals, packaging and bearings; 3.4 Describe the operation of different types of cam and follower and linkage mechanisms.
- Understand the interface between railway systems; 4.1 Describe the basic principles of electricity as applied to railway infrastructure; 4.2 Describe the fundamental principles of railway signalling; 4.3 Explain the operation of points and point detection systems; 4.4 Describe the relationship between track geometry and overhead line geometry.
14
Railway Infrastructure Construction and Maintenance
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Know the preparatory activities required for the construction of railway track infrastructure; 1.1 Describe the legal and financial frame
- work applicable to a project for a new section of railway infrastructure; 1.2 Describe the development process required for a new build or renewal within a railway environment.
- Know the scope of earth
- work activities that may be undertaken in association with railway track infrastructure; 2.1 Describe the methodology used for a railway track earthworks project, including the plant and equipment required for a standard track cross section; 2.2 Describe the importance of track foundation to the load bearing capacity of the line.
- Understand the forms of construction and material specifications used in railway track infrastructure; 3.1 Explain the essential design principles for track geometry and the importance of wheel rail interface; 3.2 Describe the construction methods for initial placement and subsequent maintenance activities to ensure track position and geometry; 3.3 describe the materials and quality control processes required to ensure the provision of suitable and sustainable track construction material and waste material disposal.
- Understand track maintenance processes used to identify and correct defects in railways; 4.1 Describe the maintenance issues that need to be considered to determine rail infrastructure integrity; 4.2 Explain how rail infrastructure defects are identified and the prescribed remedial action for each.
15
Signalling Technologies
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand the function and operation of diodes, transistors and logic gates; 1.1 Explain the purpose of two different types of diode, each in a different electronic circuit application; 1.2 Explain the operation of two different types of transistor, one in an analogue and one in a digital circuit; 1.3 Explain the operation of three different logic gates with appropriate gate symbols, truth tables and Boolean expressions.
- Be able to build and test operational amplifier-based analogue circuits; 2.1 Build and test two different types of analogue circuit using operational amplifiers.
- Be able to build and test combinational and sequential logic circuits; 3.1 Build and test a combinational logic circuit that has three input variables; 3.2 Build and test a sequential circuit using integrated circuit(s).
- Know about system monitoring and reliability; 4.1 Describe a condition monitoring method and technique related to a given engineering system; 4.2 Use given data to calculate failure rates for a range of components and equipment; 4.3 Describe the factors affecting reliability for a given engineering system.
16
Telecommunication principles
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand the relationship between telecommunication circuits and transmission lines and their effect on a digital signal; 1.1 Describe the properties of a circuit with reactive and resistive components; 1.2 Describe the characteristics of a transmission line with reference to an equivalent circuit model; 1.3 Describe the properties of a digital signal and the impairments that could affect it.
- Understand the principles and characteristics of frequency modulation and multiplexing; 2.1 Describe signal modulation techniques and the properties of a modulated signal; 2.2 Describe the principles and benefits of analogue to digital conversion; 2.3 Describe the principles and benefits of frequency and time division multiplexing.
- Be able to carry out tests on telecommunications electrical circuits; 3.1 Make measurements on telecommunication electrical circuits.
- Understand the applications of electromagnetic theory as applied to telecommunications. 4.1 Describe the characteristics and application of frequency bands in the electromagnetic spectrum; 4.2 explain how transformers and other telecommunication devices make use of the principles of electromagnetism.
17
Telecommunication Technologies
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Know the main elements of data communications system; 1.1 Identify and explain types of communication devices; 1.2 Explain the principles of signal theory
- Understand the communication principles of computer networks; 2.1 Identify and describe the roles of net
- work components and how they are interconnected; 2.2 Describe the features of networks and the communication services they offer; 2.3 Describe communication protocols used and explain why they are important
- Understand transmission protocols and models; 3.1 Describe different methods of electronic communication and transmission media used.
- Understand internet communications; 4.1 Describe the nature of internet communication and the associated system requirements.
18
Underground rail passenger comfort, safety and security
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand Closed Circuit Television systems; 1.1 Explain the purposes of a Closed Circuit Television system in terms of passenger security and comfort; 1.2 Explain the components used, technical requirements and their function in a typical Closed Circuit Television system; 1.3 Describe the implications of a Closed Circuit Television system failing the methods used for fault finding on the system; 1.4 Explain the reasons for the different types of recording media used in typical Closed Circuit Television systems; 1.5 Explain the implications of using a Closed Circuit Television system with respect the privacy of passengers.
- Understand Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems; 2.1 Explain the principles of heat transfer in terms of conduction, convection and radiation; 2.2 Explain the relationship between temperature and pressure and how this relationship is used in HVAC systems; 2.3 Explain the stages and operation of a typical rolling stock HVAC system; 2.4 Describe the components and their function in a typical rolling stock HVAC system; 2.5 Describe the air conditioning refrigeration systems; 2.6 Describe the safety precautions to be used when working on and around HVAC systems; 2.7 Describe a typical control unit for an HVAC used within rolling stock and any associated maintenance; 2.8 Explain the environmental and legal implications of a release of refrigerant into the atmosphere.
- Understand Passenger Information Systems; 3.1 Describe a typical Passenger Information System showing all of the key components including controllers, displays, passenger alarms and on train audio; 3.2 Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between passenger alarms and emergency brakes; 3.3 Describe the function and operation of each of the Passenger Information System components; 3.4 Explain how automatic announcements are controlled on a typical Passenger Information System; 3.5 Demonstrate the ability to fault find on the Passenger Information Systems using downloads, system schematics and MVB analysis if applicable; 3.6 Explain the importance of having a functioning Passenger Information System in terms of passenger safety and comfort.
- Understand train door systems; 4.1 Explain the operating principles of electrical and pneumatic, door systems; 4.2 Explain the components, materials used and operational requirements of exterior door systems; 4.3 Describe the electrical/ electronic methods used for the control and operation of exterior door systems; 4.4 List the safety devices fitted to exterior saloon doors and describe the operation of these devices; 4.5 Explain the term ‘wrong side failure’ and any implications that such a failure would have on the exterior saloon door system; 4.6 Demonstrate the ability to fault find on the cab and door systems using downloads, diagnostic software, system schematics and MVB analysis if applicable; 4.7 Explain the importance a correct mechanical saloon door set up with regard to normal operation, safety implications and impact on the serviceability of door components.
- Understand train vehicle trim; 5.1 Describe a typical passenger counting or load system and explain the reasons why a TOC would choose to install or use such a system; 5.2 Describe the required properties of the glazing used on passenger trains; 5.3 Explain the minimum lighting requirements of a passenger train if it were to lose its main source of electrical power; 5.4 Describe the logistics of maintaining a clean and tidy service for passengers from the perspective of train down time and manpower requirements.
19
Underground rail vehicle traction and associated systems
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand traction and rolling stock suspension systems; 1.1 Describe the design, construction, maintenance and operation of train suspension 1.2 Describe the purpose of the different suspension systems fitted to trains; 1.3 Explain how failed suspension increases damage to both track and vehicles; 1.4 Compare conventional body/bogie mountings.
- Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock braking systems; 2.1 Describe the operation of a typical air/electric brake system; 2.2 Describe how a variable load valve works and what symptoms would become apparent in the event of failure; 2.3 Describe the various types of friction pad in use on traction and rolling stock; 2.4 Describe the operation of a wheel slide prevention system; 2.5 Describe the safety systems that can take over the operation of a train braking system in the event of operator error; 2.6 Describe why automatic sanding is necessary; 2.7 Explain the implications to the Train Operating Company (TOC) of a unit in service being unable to release brakes whilst on the line; 2.8 Explain the use of round train circuits and the implications of their failure.
- Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock axles, wheels and bearings; 3.1 Describe a typical wheelset, identifying all components; 3.2 Identify different types of wheel profile and their specific use; 3.3 Describe the risks associated with changing out wheelsets; 3.4 Describe in situ test and inspection methods for Traction and rolling stock wheelsets; 3.5 Discuss the implications of a ‘flat’ on a wheelset; 3.6 Discuss ways in which wheelset life may be extended; 3.7 Explain the importance of a regular maintenance programme for traction and the implications of a delay in this.
- Understand AC electric power collection and transmission; 4.1 Describe the relationship between the design, construction, maintenance and operation of an AC electric powered traction unit; 4.2 Describe AC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency; 4.3 Describe what systems are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at neutral sections or gaps; 4.4 Describe how an AC vehicle’s main transformer works and the need for different voltage outputs; 4.5 Describe the operation of a typical AC traction power control system that shows variations to allow for the control of both AC and DC traction motors; 4.6 Compare the performance, reliability characteristics and maintenance implications of AC and DC traction motors; 4.7 Explain the principles of rheostatic/regenerative braking.
- Understand the fundamentals of DC Electric power collection and transmission; 5.1 Describe DC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency; 5.2 Describe typical 630/750V DC collection equipment; 5.3 Describe the systems that are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at dragging gaps; 5.4 Describe how the speed of DC traction motors is controlled; 5.5 Describe the main performance issues resulting from sub-zero temperatures and snowfall; 5.6 Describe how a traction unit operating on a DC electrified railway may utilise AC traction motors.
20
Working safely within Rail Engineering
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand commercial operations and corporate policies; 1.1 Explain the importance of third party requirements and client confidentiality;1.2 Describe the employing organisations policies on ethics, diversity and equality; 1.3 Describe the implications of not following policies on ethics, diversity and equality; 1.4 Describe commercial operations and contractual principles between railway organisations; 1.5 Identify positive and negative implications for railway organisations within their commercial operations.
- Understand health and safety legislation and regulations; 2.1 Describe the responsibilities of the employee and employer with regards to workplace health and safety; 2.2 Describe the roles and responsibilities of different organisations involved with workplace health and safety; 2.3 Describe the key features of the relevant legislation and directives with regard to health and safety; 2.4 describe the key features of the relevant legislation and directives with regard to environmental management; 2.5 Explain the possible consequences and cost implications of employees not abiding by legislation and regulations; 2.6 Explain the possible consequences and cost implications of employers not abiding by legislation and regulations.
- Know about hazards and risks in the workplace; 3.1 Explain the difference between a risk and a hazard; 3.2 Describe the methods used to identify hazards in a working environment; 3.3 Explain how hazards which become risks can be controlled; 3.4 Describe the process of carrying out a risk assessment within the working environment; 3.5 Identify control measures as part of a risk assessment.
- Understand methods used when reporting and recording accidents and incidents; 4.1 Explain the importance of reporting and recording accidents and incidents; 4.2 Describe the procedures used to record and report accidents, dangerous occurrences or near misses.
Regulatory & Verification Details
- Qualification Number (QN)
- 603/0375/X
- Regulated Status
- Available to learners
- Awarding Body
- EAL
- Qualification Type
- Vocationally-Related Qualification
- Operational Start
- Sept 2016