Plumbing Science

Overview

Framework:
RQF
Level:
Level 1
Unit No:
R/617/5821
Credits:
3
Guided learning hours:
27 hours

Aim

To provide learner’s with an understanding of basic science and its application to plumbing installation

Unit Learning Outcomes

1

Know about the standard units of measure used in the plumbing industry.

Importance of standard units

  • integrated supply network
  • ordering materials
  • matching manufacturers equipment
  • comparison of systems

Standard Units

  • SI units of measurement
  • Pressure units
  • Volume units
  • Length units
  • Time units

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Outline why standard measurements are important.

  • 1.2

    Describe the SI standard units of measurement.

2

Know about the properties of water, as relevant to plumbing.

Properties

  • states of water,
  • gas , vapour, liquid, solid
  • temperature related properties, vapour, steam, boiling, freezing, ice
  • mineral characteristics, alkaline, soft, hard, acidic
  • density of water

Changes

  • movement through pipework
  • freezing due to low temperatures
  • high temperatures and expansion
  • how water transmits heat
  • effects of gravity
  • use of pumping
  • capillary actions
  • water additives and quality

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Describe the properties of water.

  • 2.2

    Describe the changes to water within plumbing installations.

3

Know about heat, as relevant to plumbing.

Heat Transfer

  • conduction
  • convection
  • radiation
  • examples with regard to pipework
  • how each transmits heat

Heat Emitters

  • radiators
  • convectors
  • air blowers
  • isolated free standing units
  • multi fuel stoves

Insulation Requirements

  • to comply with Building Regulations
  • reduction in heat losses fabric
  • reduction ion heat losses distribution
  • to conserve heat
  • to reduce energy costs

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Describe the methods of heat transfer with reference to heat emitters.

  • 3.2

    Explain why insulation is important.

4.

Know about materials used in the plumbing industry.

Pipework

  • copper
  • plastic
  • mild steel
  • pipework connections

Properties of plumbing materials

  • expands under heat
  • malleable
  • easily bent
  • burst resistant under cold temperatures
  • can be cut easily
  • water tight joints

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    State materials used for water movement.

  • 4.2

    Describe the properties of plumbing materials.