Transport and Heavy Equipment Technology

Learners will gain an understanding of the strategies and skills required for effective communication in a professional environment. Topics include active listening, conflict resolution, writing industry specific reports and documents, developing interview skills, and giving and receiving feedback.

This course introduces you to the fundamentals of the hydraulic systems found in heavy machinery. You will learn how to assemble basic hydraulic circuits based on hydraulic principles, and you’ll examine hydraulic system components and their operations. You will also get hands-on experience rebuilding hydraulic system components and applying the theory you have learned in a lab setting.

This course explores the principles of brake system operation. You will examine the operating principles and service procedures of hydraulic brake system components, power braking systems and parking brake systems, as well as the operation of air brake mechanical and system components. You’ll also get hands-on practice inspecting and repairing hydraulic, pneumatic and electronically-controlled and operated brake systems.

This course introduces you to key topics in the theory and operation of electrical and electronic systems. You will examine how to calculate circuit values, explore the principles and theory of magnetism, and use electrical test equipment to measure electrical values and check circuit operation. You’ll also service, test and charge batteries, and repair wiring harnesses, lighting circuits and circuit protection devices. The course concludes with an examination of the use and operation of electronic components and electronic control systems.

This course covers the key areas you need to know to work safely and effectively. You will examine the legislation, regulations and practices that help to ensure a safe workplace, as well as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe practices for climbing, lifting, rigging and hoisting. You’ll also explore safety practices for hazardous materials and fire protection in this trade. This course also includes the correct use of common hand, shop and power tools, and you’ll perform basic trade calculations and accurate measurements. The course concludes with an examination of oxyfuel heating and cutting, and SMAW welding operations.

In this course, you will examine the operating principles, design features and repair procedures of common frame and suspension systems, and you will service common bearings, seals, wheels, tires and hubs. You’ll also explore common trailer configurations and components, and you will service trailer coupling systems and landing gear. The course also covers trailer inspections and the benefits of maintenance systems used with off-road and on-road equipment.

In this course, you will gain a theoretical and practical understanding of the operating principles of various cranking and charging systems used in the heavy equipment trade. The material and coursework provide opportunities to diagnose, service and repair cranking and starting systems, both off-equipment and on-equipment. In addition, the content covers different charging components and alternative cranking systems found in today’s vehicles and equipment.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 227

This course introduces you to mechanical fuel injection systems. Topics include diesel fuel properties and correct storage, combustion process and starting aids, basic mechanical fuel supply and transfer systems and high-pressure hydraulic fuel injection systems. You will have the opportunity to perform fuel system testing and diagnosis. Throughout the course, you will apply the theories in a shop setting to get hands-on experience.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 223
• HDMC 228

In this course, you will expand on the material covered in other courses to include computer-controlled and electronically controlled fuel injection systems in current vehicle and equipment models. Topics include electronic system fundamentals, various electronically controlled fuel injection systems, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and common service and repair practices. The material also covers present-day emission control systems and the history of emissions controls. Additionally, you will discuss repair procedures for alternate fuel systems and engine braking systems. To put theory into practice, you will have opportunities to demonstrate diagnosis, service and repairs in a lab setting.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 227

This course provides an in-depth exploration of heavy equipment engine fundamentals, combining theory in class and application in a shop setting. Topics include the components and operating of an internal combustion engine, design and function of engine components, as well as understanding timing and the interconnected nature of the engine. Students will have ample opportunities to perform basic service and repairs on different engine components.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 228

In this course, students will further their understanding of engine systems through theory and practice. The material covers the principles and functions of air, lubrication, cooling and exhaust systems used in today’s internal combustion engines. Learners will perform diagnostics, service, and repair of the systems and apply the theory in a shop setting.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 223
• HDMC 228

Learners will gain an in-depth understanding of open and closed center systems along with hydrostatic closed loop and constant horsepower systems used in current machinery. Hydraulic components, system operations, diagnostics, schematic reading, servicing, and repairing will be covered along with mechanical, pilot operated and electro-hydraulic control systems. Opportunities will be provided in a lab setting to apply the theory of electronic controls and perform diagnostics, servicing, and repairing of components and circuits.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 223

Learners will gain an in-depth understanding of torque converters, both planetary and countershaft powershift transmissions, differentials axle carrier assemblies, automated drive machines, A/C drive systems, and final drives. Constant velocity transmissions, as well as other emerging off-road powertrain systems and the principles related to geared components, will also be introduced. Opportunities will be provided for learners to gain experience in servicing and repairing various powertrain components in a lab setting.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 300

Learners will gain an understanding of full-time power steering systems, walking beam suspension and hydro-pneumatic suspension systems. Topics will also include electronic monitoring system integration. Opportunities will be provided for learners to perform diagnostic, repairing and servicing in a lab setting.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 224
• HDMC 229
• HDMC 300

Learners will review the scientific principles and operation of air conditioning systems in on-highway and mobile equipment. Opportunities will be provided in a lab setting to diagnose, service and repair common air conditioning systems and follow industry safety standards and environmental requirements.

In this course, you’ll explore how the heavy equipment industry uses key auxiliary systems, including GPS, GIS, autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles and hydrogen-based fuel systems. You’ll also examine how emerging technologies could impact each of these systems and discuss their potential for the industry.

Learners will gain an in-depth understanding of mechanical and automated countershaft transmissions, axle assemblies, differentials, clutches, driveline, and transfer case operating principles, diagnostics, service, and repair. Opportunities will be provided to apply theory in a lab setting.

Learners will build on their foundational knowledge about braking systems and will be provided with a practical understanding of steering angles, alignment, inspection, and service of on-highway vehicles. Anti-lock braking systems are also covered, and opportunities are provided in a lab setting to perform diagnostics, service, and repair to on highway vehicles brake systems.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 224
• HDMC 302

Learners will build on their understanding of frame and suspension systems as well as gearing and wheel systems and apply this knowledge to trailer systems used in the on-highway transport industry. Topics will also include structures, accessories, and efficiency systems. Opportunities will be provided to apply theory in a lab setting.

Pre-requisites:

• HDMC 302

The cooperative work term course offers students an optional opportunity to augment their classroom learning by applying theoretical knowledge and gaining practical experience in a professional workplace setting. This course serves as a bridge between academic studies and real-world industry practices, enabling students to develop valuable skills, enhance their employability, and establish connections within industry.