Industrial Electronics/Electrical Technician

Occupational Summary

This occupation covers the installation, maintenance, overhaul, rebuilding, modification, and repair of industrial electrical systems and equipment and all types of industrial electronic controls on machine instruments and industrial equipment requiring ingenuity and experience in diagnosing and correcting control malfunctions.

Work Performed

Troubleshoots integrally related hydraulic, mechanical, and electronic control systems to isolate malfunctions in electronic controls and servo systems including computer numerical controls, programmable controllers, mini-computers, micro-processors, SCR controls, electronic tracer control systems, boiler controls, and other industrial controls and amplifiers. Disassembles, repairs or replaces defective components and makes exacting coordinated adjustments as necessary to maintain control performance and overall machine efficiency in accordance with system standards and machine instrument specifications. Chooses routing, location, and method of installing wires, conduits, electrical equipment, fixtures, and accessories; follows trade practices, blueprints, wiring diagrams, and applicable state, municipal, and underwriter specifications, codes, and ordinances. Computes wire gauge, power, and load limit requirements. Diagnoses malfunctions of control systems by observing and interpreting electronic control signals and reasoning levels by utilizing such external electronic test devices as dual-beam, high persistence oscilloscopes, volt-ohm meters, laser interferometer, pulse and digital test equipment, analyzers, and other test devices as necessary to effectively and efficiently troubleshoot the control system. Writes programmable interface logic programs using Boolean algebra, ladder diagrams, and basic computer language. Substitutes transistors, IC's, and other semiconductor devices using data books without engineering assistance. Performs construction and maintenance operations such as installing and maintaining industrial electrical motors, transformer banks, transformers, welding generators, panels, and switchboards. Replaces solid state boards or components. Inspects and maintains electrical systems and accessories on plant machines and equipment and overhead crane and hoist equipment. Resolves need for electrical repair and replacement and the best and safest method for restoring interrupted electrical service and for making emergency repairs. Performs mechanical operations necessary to dismantling, disassembly, repair, and installation of electrical units.

Knowledge And Abilities

To apply a complete knowledge of electrical and electronic maintenance, shop philosophy, practices, procedures, codes, and ordinances in installing and maintaining electronic control devices, machine servo controls, and computer NC-controlled equipment. To read and interpret complex wiring and circuit diagrams, schematics, logic prints, installation, and construction blueprints. To troubleshoot by using computer diagnostics and CRT troubleshooting techniques. To use electrician hand instruments, electrical shop power tools, equipment and accessories, electrical testing and measuring instruments, electrical handbooks, and charts. To use all types of hand instruments and gauges including precision indicators, MST devices, precision gauge blocks, and other test devices require to set up and functionally test the control system. To be familiar with metalworking cutter technology and milling techniques, spot welder philosophy, industrial radio system theory, tube bending techniques, typesetting and printing procedures, and industrial chemical processing procedures. To be familiar with NC software and programming techniques and diagnostic routines and special test tape troubleshooting procedures.

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