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Skill Overview

A Level 3 Plate Welder is a skilled professional who specialises in joining metal plate sections using various welding techniques, such as MIG, TIG, and MMA (Manual Metal Arc) welding. Plate welders work in industries like construction, shipbuilding, oil and gas, and manufacturing, where they create high-quality, durable welds on metal structures, components, and products. This apprenticeship prepares individuals to master complex welding tasks and produce work that meets strict industry standards.

Learning Objectives

Key Learning Areas:
Welding Techniques and Processes

Learn and master a range of welding processes, including MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), and MMA (Manual Metal Arc) welding.
Gain an understanding of the advantages and applications of each welding technique and their suitability for different materials and projects.
Understanding Materials and Metallurgy

Study various metal types, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminium, and how they behave under welding conditions.
Understand the properties of metals, including tensile strength, hardness, and ductility, and how to select the right materials for a welding project.
Health and Safety Compliance

Gain knowledge of health and safety regulations specific to welding, including safe handling of materials, use of welding equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Learn to identify and mitigate risks such as fire hazards, exposure to harmful fumes, and potential electric shocks.
Preparation and Set-Up

Develop skills in preparing metal plates for welding, including cutting, grinding, and aligning workpieces to ensure proper fit-up.
Understand how to set up welding machines, adjust settings for different materials, and ensure equipment is functioning properly.
Welding Standards and Specifications

Learn to work to detailed specifications, engineering drawings, and welding procedures, ensuring welds meet quality standards.
Understand the importance of welding codes, standards, and certifications relevant to industries such as oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing.
Weld Quality and Inspection

Develop the ability to produce high-quality, consistent welds that are free from defects such as cracks, porosity, or lack of fusion.
Gain skills in inspecting and testing completed welds using visual inspection techniques, non-destructive testing (NDT), and other methods to ensure compliance with standards.
Problem-Solving and Troubleshooting

Learn to identify and resolve common welding issues, such as incorrect machine settings, improper material fit-up, and defects in welds.
Develop critical thinking skills to troubleshoot and adjust welding techniques or processes to achieve desired outcomes.
Teamworking and Communication

Collaborate with other trades and team members, such as fabricators, engineers, and inspectors, to ensure project success.
Develop communication skills to discuss welding plans, report progress, and highlight any potential issues with supervisors or colleagues.
Continuous Improvement

Understand the principles of continuous improvement (Kaizen) in the workplace, and how to apply these to increase efficiency and reduce waste in welding processes.
Learn to maintain and improve welding skills through regular practice, training, and feedback.

Funding Option

Funding Eligibility

Must be at least 16 years old.
 
Residency Status
 
Must have the right to work in England.
Must have been ordinarily resident in the UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or have lived in the UK for at least three years prior to starting the apprenticeship.
Educational Status
 
Must not be in full-time education (apprenticeships are considered an alternative to full-time education).
A person with previous qualifications can apply, but the apprenticeship must provide new skills and learning.
Previous qualifications must not significantly overlap with the apprenticeship being applied for.
Employment
 
Must have a job or apprenticeship agreement in place with an employer who is willing to offer an apprenticeship opportunity.

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