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After completing this course, the licensee should be able to: 

• Explain how expansion joints and vibration dampeners work.

• Contrast screwed, flanged, and welded connections, and tell why one type of joint may be prefer‐ red for a given application.

• Discuss the main functions of fittings. 

• Identify common pipe and tube fittings.

• Demonstrate a knowledge of the symbols used to represent joints and fittings on schematic drawings of piping systems.

• Explain the various ways in which valves control fluid flow in piping systems.

• Identify gate, globe, needle, ball, butterfly, plug, and check valves, and tell what each is used for. 

• Explain how and why quick-opening valves are used in industrial piping applications.

• Describe routine inspection, lubrication, and maintenance procedures for common valves.

• Explain how diaphragm valves work.

• Describe the functions of the three main types of blowdown valves. 

• Tell how regulating valves, relief valves, and reducing valves are used in industrial piping systems.

• Describe how different kinds of actuators open and close valves in response to pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrical signals.

• Discuss the protective uses of strainers and filters in piping systems.

• Explain how the relationship between pressure and temperature affects steam lines and creates the need for steam traps.

• Describe proper steam trap maintenance. 

• Explain how and why air-vent and water-drain valves are used.

• Describe how a heat exchanger works in a fluid system.

• Describe how different types of gauges are used to measure pressure and temperature in piping systems.

• Explain why rotary pressure joints are necessary in some applications.

• Describe the functions of accumulators and receivers. 

• Tell how actuators and intensifiers are used in fluid- power systems.

• Discuss the principles of preventive maintenance and repair maintenance as they apply to piping systems.

  • Approved By: Indiana Department of Environmental Management

Instructor Bio

Ralph Stevens

Ralph Stevens is a water Subject Matter Expert, licensed in California, Nevada and Arizona as a Grade 3 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. Ralph has worked in wastewater for almost 50 years, starting as an operator in a wastewater treatment plant and serving most recently as the Maintenance Reliability Supervisor for the Clark County Water Reclamation District. He is a certified Class Trainer for the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) and has served as the Operations and Maintenance Chairperson for the same organization. He has won a number of awards for his work, including CWEA Electrical and Instrumentation Person of the Year (2015), Safety Plant of the Year (2017), and the WEF Burke Safety Award (2019). Ralph goes out of his way to help and protect staff and the environment.