They chose to develop the specialization toward design engineering, even though the higher vocational programme for hydraulic technicians provides a solid foundation for design work, in order to further strengthen the various elements of design.
– Through this specialization, the students become complete design engineers and can also become certified as Hydraulic Design Engineers, explains Jon Sandström, CEO of ITH. Of the approximately 75 students they admit to the higher vocational programmes, about a quarter choose to continue toward becoming design engineers.
– They have often studied technology in upper secondary school, and with the higher vocational education they get a strong foundation which, together with this programme, makes them knowledgeable and broad hydraulic design engineers, something that is in great demand in the industry. Since it is a complete programme, the entry requirements are only to have completed some technical course or gained technical knowledge through work. If there are places available, students with the right prior knowledge may join the specialization.
– In that case, it is assumed that those interested in taking only this specialization have either completed equivalent Hydraulic Technician training or have completed Basic Course 1 and 2 at ITH, or have knowledge corresponding to that level. In the course, students mainly learn calculations, dimensioning and the selection of hydraulic components. It is also possible to take individual courses such as CAD, Mechanics, Strength of Materials and System Design. The purposes and areas of application of components are covered through discussion and analysis. The course is adapted to meet industry requirements and is specifically designed for those who want to become certified in hydraulics.
Content of the advanced course
Introductory sections:
• Selection and dimensioning of actuators (cylinders, motors)
• Selection and dimensioning of components
• Filtration, cleanliness requirements, selection of filters
System design – system structure:
• System solutions and component selection
• Evaluation of different solutions with regard to power consumption, heat generation, operational reliability, serviceability, noise level, etc.
• Checking pressure drop and dimensioning of pipelines
• Group work in system design and dimensioning
Systems with proportional control:
• Proportional control of speed – rotational speed, force
• Selection and dimensioning of included components
• Closed-loop control systems with hydraulics
