As an industrial user or OEM, here is something worth thinking about as we progress through these economic hard times.
There was a time when large companies had 10 to 20 people working in the Maintenance Department. Today that number is probably down to three or four people. In some companies, it is only one or two. In fact, it may be you.
Previously companies had electricians, mechanics, plumbers, pipefitters, carpenters, millwrights and the like. Now maintenance and breakdowns are handled by fewer people, most requiring cross-training on the equipment. This means today’s skilled tradesmen must be able to handle a variety of mechanical responsibilities.
A commitment to lifelong learning is the best way to stay on top of your profession. Regular reading and acquiring more knowledge, and skills makes us more valuable in the workplace. Understanding fluid power is a useful asset to have at your fingertips; however, that understanding requires a thorough knowledge of the basics without which is a dangerous proposition.
We offer face-to-face training, not a do-it-yourself approach from mail-in or website “question and answer” sessions. Your questions are answered, on the spot, by a qualified instructor.
• Purpose of Training
The seminars are designed for the absolute beginner and those with a general working knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics. The training could act as a solid refresher for those who have been in the trade for a while. We begin with the very basics, and progress through the building blocks of knowledge, such as pumps, motors, valves, actuators, etc. When concluded, the student will have an excellent working knowledge that can be put to use immediately in your facility.
Attendees will leave with a workbook that has all the information covered in the course, and a wealth of verbal and illustrated knowledge that has been conveyed in a relatively short period.
• Contents and Format
This series of power-point programs and accompanying workbooks form a learning resource which will enable students to master the fundamentals of Basic Fluid power. While the entire set contains enough information for full hydraulics (or pneumatics) course, the individual courses also offer experienced students the opportunity to brush up on “rusty” knowledge.
The series deals with an overview of hydraulics (or pneumatics) including hydraulic or pneumatic circuits, pumps, actuators, valves, fluids, safety, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Taken as a whole, this competency-based learning hydraulic or pneumatic technology will significantly benefit the student during the learning experience.
The power-point lessons in this series are designed to demonstrate the basic concepts of hydraulic or pneumatics. Each lesson is introduced by identifying and showing basic hydraulic (or pneumatic) concepts. The emphasis is to teach the fundamental principles of hydraulics or pneumatics.
• Expectations
This series is intended to be used as a critical component of your hydraulics (or pneumatic) curriculum. Each lesson is designed to provide the background knowledge required to develop a fundamental understanding of hydraulics (or pneumatics). Each lesson has instructional objectives which identify student outcomes associated with the information presented.
Our courses are “generic” and apply to all manufacturers and brands. The student will not be subjected to a sales pitch as we are providing knowledge, not selling products.
Our experience indicates that those who take these courses attentively, take notes in the workbook and ask appropriate questions are most likely to accomplish the stated objectives for each class.
Spencer Technical Innovations 