British Fluid Power Association Level 1 Hydraulics Vocational Course

Many industrial fluid power systems use hydraulics as a source of power where heavier loads and forces are required than pneumatic systems can provide. Whilst there are many similarities between the two fluid power systems, the use of hydraulics has its own peculiarities in terms of the operating principles, the equipment and circuit design, the safety issues and basic maintenance and fault-finding techniques. The underpinning principles and practical applications offered in this BFPA Foundation Level course will provide a good level of understanding of how hydraulic systems are used in an industrial setting.

This 3 day course is aimed at maintenance personnel, as well as individuals required to work with hydraulics, particularly those who have little experience of working with or maintaining hydraulic systems. The course will cover some basic theory and principles but will also focus on the practical application using hydraulic equipment to build and test simple circuits. Delegates will develop a practical knowledge of component identification, circuit design, function and systematic hydraulic fault-finding techniques.

Course objectives

• Basic Principles
• Health and Safety
• Hydraulic Symbols
• Pumps
• Fluid Energy and Storage
• Pressure Control Valves
• Flow Control Valves
• Directional Control Valves
• Actuators
• Contamination Control
• Hydraulic Fluid
• Hose Technology
• Maintenance Procedures
• Test and Measurement

Course outcomes

By the end of this course the delegates will have developed a practical knowledge of component identification, circuit design and function, together with systematic fault-finding techniques of a typical industrial hydraulic systems application.

Course pre-requisites

There are no pre-requisites for this course. Some experience of working in or around fluid power systems would be of benefit but is not essential.

Course assessment

Whilst there is no formal assessment on this course, delegates will need to demonstrate that they can operate effectively and safely with live hydraulic equipment and systems. On successful completion of the course, delegates will receive a Make UK certificate of attendance as well as a BFPA Foundation Level Certificate. Attendees will also receive a BFPA Hydraulics Training Pack containing comprehensive training notes and additional information that supports the training.