Mechanical Engineering
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Course Background: Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering involves the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of a wide range of industrial appliances. This field is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with technology and using hands-on skills. Mechanical engineering students are drawn to this discipline due to its versatility and the wide array of career opportunities available after graduation. Graduates can pursue careers in industries such as construction, automotive, robotics, energy, and many others.
Course Outline
N4 Level
- Mechanotechnics
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Supervisory Management
N5 Level
- Mechanotechnics
- Power Machines
- Mathematics
- Strength of Materials and Structures
N6 Level
- Mechanotechnics
- Power Machines
- Mathematics
- Strength of Materials and Structures
Mechanical Engineering Practicals – Level 1
You have the option to complete 1 week of practical hours within your field of study. This can be done either after completing N1 or before N3, and you will receive a certificate and a logbook for the components you have completed.
Foundational Program (3 Days)
Workshop Health & Safety Theory
This full safety training program covers the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) regulations.
Basic Hand Tools
- Use of hand tools and portable equipment specific to mechanical trades.
- Operations with portable machinery such as grinding machines, cut-off machines, and drilling machines.
- Proper usage of chisels, hammers, screwdrivers, scribers, punches, socket wrenches, files, Vernier calipers, and clamps.
- Measurement and marking with “Marking Blue.”
Basic Arc Welding
- Space welding and vertical welding techniques.
- Assembly skills using welding processes.
Applied Practical Hand Skills
- Cutting sample workpieces using grinders and cut-off machines.
- Marking and measurements with Vernier calipers.
- Drilling, thread tapping, and assembly of workpieces.
- Pipe threading, plate rolling, and guillotine work.
Subject-Specific Programs
(Choose one depending on your area of study)
Fitting & Machining (2 Days)
Lathe Machine Training
- Safety rules and operating techniques for lathe machines.
- Tool bits for skimming and polishing.
- Basic screw cutting, drilling, and tapping techniques.
Milling Machine Training
- Safety guidelines for milling machine operations.
- Techniques for end milling, slab milling, fly cutting, drilling, reaming, boring, slotting, and saw milling.
Welding (2 Days)
Arc Welding
- Equipment safety, amperage setting, and welding practices.
- Space welding techniques, horizontal and vertical welds, continuous welding, and assembly.
Motors (2 Days)
Engine Function & Principles
- Identification of engine components and functionality.
- Stripping and reassembling engine blocks, inspecting pistons, crankshafts, and bearings.
Gearbox and Transmission
- Stripping and reassembling gearboxes, inspecting prop shafts, and checking universal joints.
Mechanical Engineering Practicals – Level 2 (Optional)
Complete 1 week of advanced practical hours, available after N4 or before N6. This includes further practical experience, with certification and a logbook provided for the components completed.
Fitting & Machining (5 Days)
Lathe – Training: Screw Cutting
- Drilling, tapping, and cutting various materials with an emphasis on cutting speed and finish quality.
Lathe – Training: Milling Operations
- Safety techniques, end milling, and slotting with a focus on surface depth milling and tolerances.
Welding (5 Days)
Arc Welding Training
- Review basic techniques, including flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead welding.
- Preparing surfaces for penetration welds and performing multiple bead welding.
Oxyacetylene Welding Training
- Understanding Oxy-Acetylene equipment and its components.
- Mastering brazing and welding flame types.
- Assembly and cutting techniques.
Motors (5 Days)
Engine and Systems
- Identification and assembly of engine blocks, clutches, and gearboxes.
Brake and Steering Systems
- Inspecting brake systems, steering mechanisms, suspension types, and performing diagnostics and repairs.
- Draughts person
- Fitter & turner
- Mechanical technician
- Machinist
- Toolmaker
- Instrument technician
- AutoCAD Designer
- N1 Entry Requirement: Grade 9 (Std 7) Certificate with a pass in Mathematics and Physical Science OR no formal qualification for everyone 23 years or older.
- N3 Entry Requirement: Grade 11 (Std 9) Certificate with a pass in Mathematics and Physical Science or N2.
- N4 Entry Requirement: Matric/Grade 12 (with full mathematics and science 40%+ Pass rate), or N3 Pass (with mathematics and science)
NOTE: Proceed to the next level only when the previous level has been successfully completed i.e. N4 for N5, etc.
Upon completion of every level, a certificate will be issued from the Department of Education. A National Diploma will be issued by the Department of Education on completion of N6 as well as two (2) years on the job training/attachment in the relevant industry.
National Certificate (N4): Mathematics, Engineering Science, Mechano-technics, Engineering Draughting.
National Certificate (N5 + N6): Mathematics, Mechano-technics, Power Machines, Strength of Materials, and Structures. Electives: Machine Design and Drawing, Fluid Mechanics.
N4 | 60 Credits |
N5 | 60 Credits |
N6 | 60 Credits |
Total | 180 Credits |
DURATION | 18 MONTHS |
REGISTRATION FEE | R350.00 |
DEPOSIT FEE | R950.00 |
MONTHLY FEE | R1000 (18 MONTHS) |
COURSE FEE | R19300.00 |