PLAST 160 - Process Control Systems for Plastic Manufacturing

Credits: 3
Lecture Contact Hours: 2
Lab Contact Hours: 1
Description: Plastic processing is a combination of knowledge, skill and experience. This course will provide a foundation for understanding how to reach the final desired result. It is necessary to understand how the machinery and the systems utilized in the production of plastic parts work, what the inputs to the process are and how they affect the final product.

Prerequisites: MATH 102. PLAST 131.
Corequisites: None.
Recommended: None.

Course Category: Occupational
This Course is Typically Offered: Winter Only
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Course Competencies

Determine what constitutes a plastic processing machine.
Explain how a plastic processing machine works and how the different control systems interact to produce a final product.
Differentiate between a processing issue and a machine issue.
Explain the differences in electrical, hydraulic, mechanical or pneumatic systems.
Explain hydraulics and pneumatics in plastic processing.
Explain electrical controls in plastic processing.
Explain the operation of a mechanical or hydraulic press in plastic processing.
Explain the basic operation of robotic systems in plastic processing.
Illustrate the delivery of raw material to the equipment.
Demonstrate efficiency in the troubleshooting and resolution of machine issues.
Demonstrate safe operation and safety systems related to plastic machinery.
Explore the inputs to a plastic processing machine.
Differentiate open loop, close loop and PID control systems operation.
Determine the utility requirements for equipment installation.