Electroplater

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an electroplater. Electroplaters produce a product enhancing inorganic surface on a metal or other substrate using and maintaining electrical and chemical equipment and products. Electroplaters also apply corrective or repair activities through maintaining chemical solution balances and equipment for the deposition of an inorganic coating onto another metal or non-conductive surface where required. A qualified learner will be able to: • Plan and prepare for electrolytic (including anodising) and electroless or other metal finishing processes at NQF Level 3. • Produce a product enhancing inorganic surface using electrolytic and electroless methods at NQF Level 4. • Operate, maintain and monitor plating equipment, chemical processes and laboratory measuring instruments at NQF Level 4.

Without a competent electroplating sector, it will not be possible to produce the various finishes that are applied to manufactured products. Without an electroplating industry that is capable of meeting specified finish requirements, the entire manufacturing sector is compromised and rendered uncompetitive. The result is that components that could be locally manufactured are shipped offshore, costing jobs and opportunities in South Africa. The motor industry relies most heavily on electroplated components and demands that we are able to match the latest international automotive specifications. Electroplating is also vital in the following sectors: Consumer Durables, Recreational Goods, Aerospace, Machine Tools, Hydraulic Equipment, Electronics, Jewellery and Medical Sectors. In order to compete in all of these sectors, against highly efficient competitors, it is an absolute requirement that the electroplating industry improves in terms of competence. Only one occupation is required, which is that of the electroplater. However an individual who qualifies in this trade will be able to operate in many different disciplines within the trade. These can include any permutation of zinc plating of various types, copper-nickel-chrome or brass, precious metal plating, and several others as defined in the curriculum. The typical learner may already be employed in the industry and be seeking to formalise the held qualification against the backdrop of extensive experience, or may be a new entrant into the industry whose employer wants to provide an opportunity for meaningful advancement. The South African Government is dedicated to developing the economy, including growing the engineering industry and capacity to produce products in an increasingly competitive international environment. The benefits to learners who become well paid artisans and join a growing middle class of citizens are many. The growth of an economically independent middle class, able to provide a first class education for their children, is positive for both society and the economy. Some of these trainees will go on to become entrepreneurs, establishing their own companies providing electroplating services, and so growing employment opportunities.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: NQF Level 3 qualification equivalent to N2 knowledge areas of Engineering Maths, Science and Engineering Drawing.

• The ability to plan and prepare for electrolytic and electroless or other metal finishing processes.
• The ability to produce a product enhancing inorganic surface using electrolytic and electroless methods.
• The ability to operate, maintain and monitor plating equipment, chemical processes and laboratory measuring instruments.