Moulder

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a moulder. Moulders install, test, repair and operate moulding/core making machines, sand plant, equipment and system components for the purpose of creating a sand-moulded cavity (including cores where required) by hand or machine, into which metal is poured producing quality metal castings in foundries. A qualified learner will be able to: • Plan and prepare for the operations of a moulding/core making production process at NQF Level 3. • Produce moulds, produce and assemble cores, and close moulds NQF Level 4. • Set up, operate, make adjustments and perform first line maintenance on sand plant and moulding/core making equipment NQF Level 4. • Solve moulding/core making operations and casting defect problems and adjust and maintain moulding/core making process NQF Level 4.

A shortage of Moulding skills and capacity within the industry was identified as one of the major gaps within the Foundry Industry and listed on the critical skills list of the MERSETA. The range of typical learners that will enter this qualification are people who would like to gain access to employment opportunities in Moulding specifically working within a Foundry environment. This qualification resides as one of several in the mechanical engineering and manufacturing environments and makes allowance for any feeder occupation within this context to gain access to the Moulder qualification. The Moulder qualification also makes provision for people to progress within this discipline to other aspects such as mould and core production and assembly processes and moulding and core making machine operations and processes. The main benefits of this qualification are that the learner has an opportunity to be recognised as a qualified artisan with well-structured, relevant and current competencies and have access to skilled employment opportunities within the mechanical engineering and manufacturing environments. Society will be served by qualified Moulders that not only undertake work with improved skills but are also contributing to the competitiveness of South Africa's manufacturing sector. The overall benefits for the economy would include efficient and effective Moulder competencies available to be utilised for economic growth purposes.

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 the operations of a moulding/core making process.
• The ability to produce moulds, produce and assemble cores, and close moulds.
• The ability to set-up, operate, maintain and make adjustments to equipment used in a foundry moulding/core making environment.
• The ability to solve moulding/core making operations and casting defect problems and adjust and maintain a moulding/core making process.