Fluid Power Systems

This 11-week, 33-hour course introduces students to the principles of fluid power and pneumatic systems commonly used in industrial automation. Topics include basic fluid dynamics, system components, and circuit design, with emphasis on the operation and maintenance of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Students will explore pressure, area, and volume relationships; component selection; system connections; and controlling and actuating devices. The course also includes three hours dedicated to developing soft skills essential to working in team-based and technical environments.

Award Type:

Iowa Western Certificate of Completion

Learning Outcomes:

Explain the fundamental principles of hydraulics and pneumatics
Identify and describe key components used in fluid power systems
Interpret and construct basic fluid and pneumatic circuit diagrams
Calculate pressure, area, and volume relationships in system operations
Demonstrate understanding of actuators, control valves, fittings, and storage units
Perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance procedures
Apply effective communication and teamwork skills in a technical setting

Educational Objective:

Vocational - This course prepares students for entry-level technical roles in industrial automation, maintenance, or manufacturing by providing hands-on knowledge and soft skills applicable to real-world fluid power systems.

Tuition:

$1,257.15

Fees: Books and Testing

Length of Course:

11 Weeks (33 Hours Total)

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Fluid Power Systems - 2 hours
2. Basic Properties of Fluids and Compressed Air - 3 hours
3. Components Overview: Pumps, Compressors, and Reservoirs - 3 hours
4. Pressure, Area, and Volume Relationships - 3 hours
5. Valves and Flow Control Devices - 3 hours
6. Fittings, Tubing, and System Connections - 3 hours
7. Actuating Devices: Cylinders and Motors - 3 hours
8. Controlling Devices: Solenoids, Relays, and Limit Switches - 3 hours
9. Circuit Design and Diagram Interpretation - 4 hours
10. Maintenance and Troubleshooting Procedures - 3 hours
11. Soft Skills Development (communication, collaboration, time management) - 3 hours

Admissions Requirements:

N/A

Attendance Requirements:

If a student misses two or more classes their employer will be notified that they have missed two classes. IWCC will also notify the company every time that same individual misses any other classes. The student can work with the instructor to make up the class work and class time.

Instructor Qualification:

Instructor is registered, certified, or licensed in the occupational area in which the state requires registration, certification or licensure for the occupational area in which the instructor is teaching.