Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 4:48 AM AWST

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Operate and monitor compressor systems and equipment

Operate and monitor compressor systems and equipment

Unit of competency
National Code
PMAOPS304
State Code
AXN13
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
02/06/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/08/2016
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
05/08/2016
Nominal Hours
30
Description
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to operate and monitor a complex compressor system. The compressor system will integrate several plant items (single unit operations). Operation of the compressor system includes the operation of ancillary equipment that is integral to the system, such as:advanced lubrication and seal systemsinter-stage coolers/heat exchangersscrubberssurge control systemsinstrument/control systems, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or other process controllers.The competency applies to compressor systems, such as:single/multi-stage rotary compressors (axial flow, centrifugal, turbine and screw)single/multi-stage reciprocating compressors.This unit of competency applies to operations technicians who are required to demonstrate a significant understanding of the process and the equipment operation in order to identify and rectify operational problems, predict the potential impact of compressor output on the operation of the whole plant and facilitate output changes.This unit of competency applies to an individual operating independently in a plant with local control or in liaison with the control room operator in a plant with a centralised control panel, such as distributed control system (DCS) type controls.This unit of competency applies to an individual working alone or as part of a team or group and working in liaison with other shift team members and the control room operator, as appropriate.This competency does not require the operation of a central control panel. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Prepare for work
  • 1.1 Receive and give shift handover
  • 1.2 Identify work requirements
  • 1.3 Identify and control hazards
  • 1.4 Coordinate with appropriate personnel
  • 1.5 Check for recent work undertaken on compressor system
  • 1.6 Note any outstanding/incomplete work
  • 1.7 Check operational status of compressor system
2 Operate compressor system
  • 2.1 Describe the type of compressor, the component plant items and their duties
  • 2.2 Complete routine checks, logs and paperwork taking action on unexpected readings
  • 2.3 Adjust operational speeds and operating cycles as required
  • 2.4 Monitor or activate safety systems to ensure that any system shutdowns are controlled and conducted safely and effectively
  • 2.5 Adjust compressor system and its component plant items as appropriate to their type and duty to maximise performance
3 Diagnose and take action on abnormal situations in accordance with procedures
  • 3.1 Monitor compressor and its component plant items frequently and critically throughout shift using measured/indicated data and senses
  • 3.2 Monitor impacts of any changes upstream and downstream and take action required by the procedures
  • 3.3 Recognise actual and developing situations which may require action
  • 3.4 Apply operational knowledge to resolve problems
  • 3.5 Take other actions on abnormal situations which cannot be resolved during the shift to ensure safety and the resolution of the situation
  • 3.6 Follow through items initiated until final resolution has occurred
4 Isolate and de-isolate compressor and its component plant items
  • 4.1 Complete any required pre-start checks on compressor and auxiliary systems, including oil and water
  • 4.2 Start up/shut down compressor according to the compressor type and duty in liaison with other personnel
  • 4.3 Start up/shut down/changeover component plant items within unit according to their type and duty in liaison with other personnel
  • 4.4 Initiate load-up through the selection of appropriate speed or cycle
  • 4.5 Monitor and adjust upstream/downstream equipment as required
  • 4.6 Isolate entire compressor system and/or any component plant item
  • 4.7 Implement control measures to minimise damage and hazards to/from shutdown compressor
  • 4.8 Make safe for required work
  • 4.9 Check compressor/plant item is ready to be returned to servic
  • 4.10 De-isolate and prepare compressor/plant item for return to service
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
W8868 PMAOPS304B Operate and monitor compressor systems and equipment Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OCK81 PMAOPS314 Operate and troubleshoot compressor systems Unit of competency