SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Cut materials using plasma cutting 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
253734  Cut materials using plasma cutting 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Generic Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
14698  Cut materials using plasma cutting  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
Learners credited with this unit standard are able to cut metals using plasma cutting equipment typically required in the fabrication industry. They are able to take individual responsibilities for a range of quality related tasks including set-up of equipment to suit material type and section thickness. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
It is expected that learners have prior learning or experience in oxy-acetylene cutting and are able to work safely within a manufacturing and engineering environment. In the absence of evidence of competency, learners may undergo an RPL assessment before commencing with this unit standard.

Communication at NQF Level 3 would be an added advantage in order to commence learning. 

UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
Scope:
  • Materials to be cut are ferrous and non-ferrous.
  • Visual identification of cutting defects includes but are not limited to incorrect cutting speed, angle, burned edges, pressure setting, nozzle height.
  • Cleaning of cuts includes removal of scale, spatter, soot and removal of sharp edges.
  • Cleaning tools can include wire brushes, chipping hammer, chisels.
  • Statutory requirements shall include Safety, Health and Environmental Act and local authority requirements.
  • Work site procedures include but are not limited to written and/or verbal procedures.

    Context:
  • Formal, informal learning and RPL can obtain this unit standard done under limited supervision.

    Level (for Level 4):

    A learning programme leading to the award of this unit standard should develop learners who demonstrate:
  • A foundational knowledge base as indicated in the embedded knowledge component.
  • An understanding of the discipline/field`s fundamental terms, rules, concepts and principles.
  • Familiarity with some of the essential procedures, operations and techniques of this field.
  • An ability to use a range of procedures to solve routine problems.
  • Basic information gathering, analysis and presentation skills.
  • An ability to communicate and present information clearly and reliability following prescribed formats and conventions. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Describe and explain the plasma cutting process of ferrous and non-ferrous materials. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The importance of correct setting of pressure, and the consequences of incorrect settings, is explained with reference to the thickness of materials, size of cutting nozzles and the impact of speed on control during cutting process. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Components of the plasma cutting machine and equipment are identified and the explanation of function and purpose is correct in terms of manufacturer`s standards and specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Cutting apparatus to include air hoses, plasma cutting machines, regulators, oil/water traps, plasma torch, tips and electrodes.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Cutting characteristics of materials are correctly identified and the implications for un-safe conditions are accurately described. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Terms and definitions used are consistent with generally accepted cutting terminology as recorded in cutting standards. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare for the plasma cutting operation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Reviewing manufacturer`s documentation and work instructions to determine the scope and precise nature of preparing plasma cutting equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Resources are adequate for the task, available on site by the agreed time, and checked for serviceability in accordance with worksite practices. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Resources include:
  • Adequate material support material lifting equipment as per job requirements and worksite practices.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Pre-operational checks are carried out according to manufacturer`s operational manuals and worksite practices and procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Amperage settings are selected for the thickness of material. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Pressures are set according to manufacturer`s specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Cutting speed is in relation to thickness of material. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Unsafe or defective equipment is identified and reported. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Cut material to job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Cutting of material is carried out in accordance with work instruction sheet and drawing requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    End product is inspected to conform to dimensions as indicated on drawing or job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Cutting parameters are established to approved procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Travel speed, pressure, and amperage adjustments.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Optimum utilization of material is used to minimise wastage. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    End product conforms to job requirements and drawing specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Materials to be cut:
  • Ferrous and non-ferrous material.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Confirm quality of the completed cut. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Causes of cutting imperfections are identified and rectified as per worksite practices. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Surface condition, material defects, work support, machine stability, cutting parameters, material wastage.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Cuts are assessed by inspection. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    May include surface roughness, rounded top edge condition, slag adherence, edge profile and measurements.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Procedures are applied to control distortion. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Cutting sequence, securing of excess material.
     

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Care and storage of cutting equipment, tools, and materials. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The care and storage procedures of tools, equipment and materials are explained in accordance with worksite practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Tools, equipment and materials stored in accordance with worksite practices and procedures. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard,must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider through the relevant SETA/ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines in the relevant qualification and the agreed ETQA procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • Quality control system and standards.
  • Plasma cutting processes.
  • Specific work site safety practices and use of personal protective equipment.
  • Use of task related lifting equipment.
  • Demarcation of work area.
  • Detection of visible cutting defects/abnormalities and corrective action to be taken.
  • Identification, location and functions of equipment and tools, components and materials.
  • Pre-operational checks on equipment.
  • Units of measurement.
  • Methods of securing material.
  • Verify the use of the selected task related cutting consumables and equipment.
  • Characteristics of materials and gasses.
  • Trouble shooting during machine operation and the rectification thereof. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problem areas in need of attention (Reflected in specific outcome reflexive component). 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work with others (communication between team members). 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organize and manage one self (plan, select and organize tasks, reflected in specific outcome). 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology looking after the environment and health to others when using cutting equipment. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Understand the world as a set of related systems (understanding the implications of incorrect cutting preparations with reference to cutting defects). 

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    This unit standard replaces unit standard 14698, "Cut materials using plasma cutting", Level 4, 4 credits.

    This prior learning may be assessed through RPL, and can be used by the learner to make it easier to obtain the outcome of this Unit Standard.

    Suplementary Information:

    Assessment methods:

    Integrated assessment methods and tools will allow the candidate to demonstrate that she/ he has acquired knowledge of and can safely and effectively apply competence identified in this unit standard.

    These tools may include the following:
  • In-situ (on-the-job) observations.
  • Role-play simulations.
  • Structured group discussions.
  • Written reports (e.g. tests, exams, case studies, projects, registers, logbooks, workbooks).
  • Verbal report backs (presentations).
  • Portfolios of evidence.
  • Projects (physical visits to Government Departments).
  • Experiential learning.
  • Working in teams.
  • Scenario sketching.

    These methods must be carefully selected based on the purpose of the assessment (For example, the written method of assessing knowledge or on-job demonstration of practical competence).The assessment must integrate a number of different methods in order to give the assessor reliable and valid proof of competence and evidence of equired attitudes.

    Supplementary Material:
  • Safety Health and Environment Act.
  • ISO 5817 (Visual Inspection).
  • Resource material related to this cutting process.

    Notes to Assessors:

    Assessors should keep the following general principles in mind when designing and conducting assessments against this unit standard:
  • Focus the assessment activities on gathering evidence in terms of the main outcome expressed in the title to ensure assessment is integrated rather than fragmented. Remember we want to declare the person competent in terms of the title. Where assessment at title level is unmanageable, then focus assessment around each specific outcome, or groups of specific outcomes.
  • Make sure evidence is gathered across the entire range, wherever it applies. Assessment activities should be as close to the real performance as possible, and where simulations or role-plays are used, there should be supporting evidence to show the candidate is able to perform in the real situation.
  • Do not focus the assessment activities on each assessment criterion. Rather make sure the assessment activities focus on outcomes and are sufficient to enable evidence to be gathered around all the assessment criteria.
  • The assessment criteria provide the specifications against which assessment judgements should be made. In most cases, knowledge can be inferred from the quality of the performances, but in other cases, knowledge and understanding will have to be tested through questioning techniques. Where this is required, there will be assessment criteria to specify the standard required.
  • The task of the assessor is to gather sufficient evidence, of the prescribed type and quality, as specified in this unit standard, that the candidate can achieve the outcomes again and again and again. This means assessors will have to judge how many repeat performances are required before they believe the performance is reproducible.
  • All assessments should be conducted in line with the following well documented principles of assessment: appropriateness, fairness, manageability, integration into work or learning, validity, direct, authentic, sufficient, systematic, open and consistent. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  59750   National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering: Pipe-Fitting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Core  64549   Further Education and Training Certificate: Automotive Body Repair  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MERSETA 
    Elective  64529   National Certificate: Automotive Body Repair  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MERSETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.