Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
21/07/2026 11:15 PM AWST
21/07/2026 11:15 PM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Choose polymer materials for an application
Choose polymer materials for an application
Unit of competency
National Code
PMBTECH505B
PMBTECH505B
State Code
W7699
W7699
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
07/06/2011
Field of Education
030305 - Materials Engineering
Original Release Date
07/06/2011
Nominal Hours
50
Description
This competency covers the application of a knowledge of polymerisation, polymer structure and modifications of polymer materials to their properties so enabling the choice of an appropriate polymer compound for an applications.This competency is typically performed by technicians developing new products or applying this knowledge set to advanced process/product problem solving.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Determine possible polymer properties based on polymer type.
- 1.1 Estimate molecular weight distribution changes with polymerisation mechanisms and conditions.
- 1.2 Predict the impact of monomer and polymer structure on polymer properties.
2. Estimate polymer properties based on polymer structure.
- 2.1 Predict property changes caused by polarity and intermolecular forces.
- 2.2 Determine possible polymer properties based on chain flexibility variations caused by changes in regularity, tacticity and intermolecular forces.
- 2.3 Estimate polymer properties based on molecular weight/molecular weight distribution, degree of cross-linking.
- 2.4 Predict barrier properties based on molecular orientation and degree of crystallisation.
3. Choose a polymer compound for an application.
- 3.1 Select appropriate base polymer/polymers for an application based on the polymer properties.
- 3.2 Determine reinforcement(s)/additives required to meet product specification.
- 3.3 Predict failure mechanism for selected compound and modify selection if appropriate.
- 3.4 Determine the need for polymer compatibilisers and specify appropriate use if required.
- 3.5 Develop formulation and select appropriate production
4. Organise testing of polymer and interpret test results.
- 4.1 Select appropriate test(s) for compounded polymer based on test purpose and limitations and material being tested.
- 4.2 Test colour using colour coordinates as required.
- 4.3 Interpret test results and modify formulation/production method as required to meet product specification.
RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.
Where reference is made to industry codes of practice, and/or Australian/international standards, the latest version must be used.
Context
This competency applies to all work environments and sectors within the plastics, rubber and cablemaking industry.
Procedures
All operations are performed in accordance with procedures.
Procedures include all relevant workplace procedures, work instructions, temporary instructions and relevant industry and government codes and standards.
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.
Where reference is made to industry codes of practice, and/or Australian/international standards, the latest version must be used.
Context
This competency applies to all work environments and sectors within the plastics, rubber and cablemaking industry.
Procedures
All operations are performed in accordance with procedures.
Procedures include all relevant workplace procedures, work instructions, temporary instructions and relevant industry and government codes and standards.
The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, the range statement and the assessment guidelines for this training package.
Overview of assessment
A holistic approach should be taken to the assessment.
Assessors must be satisfied that the person can consistently perform the unit as a whole, as defined by the Elements, Performance Criteria and skills and knowledge.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
It is essential that the polymer and additive properties be understood and the chemistry behind these properties can be explained. Competence must be demonstrated in the ability to predict appropriate polymers and additives from the required properties of a product.
Consistent performance should be demonstrated. For example, look to see thatselections made can be justified.
Assessment method and context
Assessment will occur using industrial polymers and typical/actual applications and will be undertaken in a work-like environment.
Competence in this unit may be assessed:
using appropriate, industrial polymers and typical/actual applications
in a situation allowing for the generation of evidence of the ability to recognise, anticipate and respond to problems
by using a suitable simulation and/or a range of case studies/scenarios
through a combination of these techniques.
In all cases it is expected that practical assessment will be combined with targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge and theoretical assessment will be combined with appropriate practical/simulation or similar assessment. Assessors need to be aware of any cultural issues that may affect responses to questions.
Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate and appropriate to the oracy, language and literacy capacity of the assessee and the work being performed.
Specific resources for assessment
This section should be read in conjunction with the Range Statement for this unit of competency. Resources required include suitable access to an operating plant or equipment that allows for appropriate and realistic simulation. A bank of case studies/scenarios and questions will also be required to the extent that they form part of the assessment method. Questioning may take place either in the workplace, or in an adjacent, quiet facility such as an office or lunchroom. No other special resources are required.
Access must be provided to appropriate learning and/or assessment support when required. Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with disabilities.
Overview of assessment
A holistic approach should be taken to the assessment.
Assessors must be satisfied that the person can consistently perform the unit as a whole, as defined by the Elements, Performance Criteria and skills and knowledge.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
It is essential that the polymer and additive properties be understood and the chemistry behind these properties can be explained. Competence must be demonstrated in the ability to predict appropriate polymers and additives from the required properties of a product.
Consistent performance should be demonstrated. For example, look to see thatselections made can be justified.
Assessment method and context
Assessment will occur using industrial polymers and typical/actual applications and will be undertaken in a work-like environment.
Competence in this unit may be assessed:
using appropriate, industrial polymers and typical/actual applications
in a situation allowing for the generation of evidence of the ability to recognise, anticipate and respond to problems
by using a suitable simulation and/or a range of case studies/scenarios
through a combination of these techniques.
In all cases it is expected that practical assessment will be combined with targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge and theoretical assessment will be combined with appropriate practical/simulation or similar assessment. Assessors need to be aware of any cultural issues that may affect responses to questions.
Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate and appropriate to the oracy, language and literacy capacity of the assessee and the work being performed.
Specific resources for assessment
This section should be read in conjunction with the Range Statement for this unit of competency. Resources required include suitable access to an operating plant or equipment that allows for appropriate and realistic simulation. A bank of case studies/scenarios and questions will also be required to the extent that they form part of the assessment method. Questioning may take place either in the workplace, or in an adjacent, quiet facility such as an office or lunchroom. No other special resources are required.
Access must be provided to appropriate learning and/or assessment support when required. Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with disabilities.
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAH94 | PMBTECH505 | Choose polymer materials for an application | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| W528 | MSA60108 | Advanced Diploma of Manufacturing Technology | Qualification |
| W526 | MSA50108 | Diploma of Manufacturing Technology | Qualification |
| W402 | PMB50107 | Diploma of Polymer Technology | Qualification |
| W403 | PMB60107 | Advanced Diploma of Polymer Technology | Qualification |