Mechanical Power Transmissions - Year 1

This 11-week, 33-hour course introduces students to the fundamentals of mechanical power transmission systems. Students explore the terminology, function, and theory of energy transfer components including belts, chains, gears, shafts, and the basic principles of hydraulics and pneumatics. Emphasis is placed on the selection, operation, and maintenance of these systems as found in modern industrial and mechanical environments. Three hours of instruction are dedicated to soft skill development such as communication, teamwork, and professional conduct.

Award Type:

Iowa Western Certificate of Completion

Learning Outcomes:

Identify and describe key mechanical power transmission components
Explain the basic principles behind energy movement through belts, chains, gears, and shafts
Understand and apply concepts related to mechanical advantage, torque, and rotational motion
Demonstrate proper handling and maintenance of transmission components
Distinguish between mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic power transmission methods
Interpret basic mechanical drawings and schematics
Apply soft skills effectively in collaborative technical settings

Educational Objective:

Vocational - This course prepares students for entry-level work in industrial maintenance, automation, and mechanical systems by equipping them with foundational knowledge and hands-on familiarity with power transmission equipment and practices.

Tuition:

$1,257.15

Fees: Books and Testing

Length of Course:

11 weeks (33 Hours Total)

Course Outline:

Introduction to Power Transmission Systems - 2 hours
- Overview of energy transfer concepts
- Safety procedures and industry applications
Terminology & Theory of Motion - 3 hours
- Mechanical advantage, torque, speed ratios
- Linear vs. rotary motion
Belt Drives - 3 hours
- Types (V-belt, flat, timing), installation, tensioning, alignment
- Pulley systems and applications
Chain Drives - 3 hours
- Roller chains, sprockets, lubrication
- Inspection and tensioning procedures
Gear Systems - 4 hours
- Spur, helical, bevel, and worm gears
- Gear ratios and torque calculations
Shafts and Couplings - 3 hours
- Keyways, set screws, flexible vs. rigid couplings
- Shaft alignment and balancing
Bearings and Support Hardware - 3 hours
- Types of bearings (ball, roller, sleeve)
- Mounting and lubrication
Introduction to Hydraulics and Pneumatics - 4 hours
- Pressure, flow, and force relationships
- Basic components and schematic interpretation
System Maintenance and Troubleshooting - 3 hours
- Common wear points, preventive maintenance
- Vibration and noise analysis
Soft Skills Development - 3 hours
- Communication, teamwork, professionalism
- Workplace problem-solving and documentation

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.