Introduces the trainees to the drawings, specifications, and other documents that are commonly used by instrument fitters and technicians. Coverage includes the specialized symbols used to identify lines on drawings, as well as those used to represent components and instrument locations. An introduction to the use of tag numbers for identifying instruments is included.
Introduces the trainees to the methods and procedures for properly inspecting, storing, and handling materials used in instrumentation systems. The information and instructions provided in this module will help the trainees learn to verify and inspect received material; properly handle and store material to avoid damage to the material; and store material in a way that makes it easily retrievable.
Introduces the trainees to basic electrical theory, components, and circuits. The module explains how electricity is generated and distributed, electrical safety practices, and the concepts of voltage, current, and resistance. The module also covers basic electrical test instruments, as well as electrical grounding principles.
Introduces the trainees to the various threaded fasteners, anchors, and non-threaded fasteners used in the installation of instrumentation equipment, including bolts, nuts and washers, concrete anchors, retainers, rivets, and tube mounting hardware. The module also covers torquing tools and methods.
Introduces the trainees to the various types and purposes of lubricants, sealants, and cleaners used during the performance of instrumentation work. The module also discusses the importance of choosing the correct product for the task and how to safely use each one.
Introduces the range of diagrams and drawings that instrumentation installers and technicians use on the job. It focuses on how to select the appropriate diagram or drawing for a given purpose and how to read and correctly interpret diagrams and drawings.
This module describes the selection, inspection, use, and maintenance of the analog and digital meters used in the installation and checkout of electronic systems.
Introduces filters commonly used for instrument air applications, regulators, and dryers. These share a common element as they all contribute to the quality and reliability of crucial compressed air supplies and possibly other gases. It is very common to see all three devices used and installed together on a system. This module will introduce trainees to these components and their primary functions.
Introduces different types of control valves, actuators, and positioners. Due to the variety of devices in use in various industries, instrumentation trainees require a strong grounding in this subject. They will also learn about the different control technologies used in remotely managing valves. Finally, they will learn how to identify valve characteristics through markings and nameplate information.
Covers the crucial topic of basic DC and AC electrical theory. Understanding these concepts is essential for instrumentation personnel since many instruments are electrical or electronic. This module addresses the foundational concepts and laws of DC voltage, current, and resistance. AC electricity is introduced and compared to DC. Electrical technology as applied to signals and sensors is briefly examined.
Presents the basics of process control theory. Understanding how processes are measured and control decisions are made is crucial to implementing and maintaining the systems that keep processes happening reliably and safely. Trainees will learn about the basic features of control theory. They will examine different types of loop control, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each type. Finally, they will see how typical process measurements are used in control loops.
Introduces the heart of any instrumentation system: the controller. This module introduces the trainees to the two major technology families used for control: pneumatic and electronic. Broad principles of control are addressed for both types of controllers. A number of specific controllers are also examined in order to provide a few examples of these principles in action.
Introduces the important topic of instrument calibration. It presents the principles of calibration and describes the calibration of traditional pneumatic and analog electronic transmitters. It also covers smart instruments, with their significantly different calibration tools and procedures. Transducers and various types of valve positioners are examined, and their calibration procedures introduced.
Introduces the multiple steps involved in bringing a process control loop online with live process. These steps include checking the loop, proving and calibrating it, and finally commissioning. Since problems are very likely at each step, troubleshooting is discussed in some detail with the goal of getting the loop ready for hand off to the next responsible party in the chain.
Introduces the trainees to the variety of tubing used in instrumentation work, including copper, stainless steel, and poly (plastic) tubing.
Reviews the characteristics of four key process variables: temperature, pressure, level, and flow. It describes the basic features and principles of operation of various instruments that are used to measure these variables. It also explains how to work with mathematical formulas that are associated with temperature, pressure, level, and flow measurement.
