27407 Introduction to Oxyfuel Cutting and Arc Welding
Course Syllabus: NCCER Module 27407-14
Introduction to Oxyfuel Cutting and Arc Welding
Course Information
- Module ID: 27407-14
- Course Title: Introduction to Oxyfuel Cutting and Arc Welding
- Credit/Training Hours: 20 Hours (Elective)
- Delivery Format: Classroom instruction combined with hands-on laboratory practice
- Prerequisites: Completion of NCCER Core Curriculum (Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, etc.) or equivalent safety training recommended
- Certification: Successful completion (including performance tasks) qualifies trainees for NCCER credential in this module, entered into the National Registry
Course Description
This module provides an introductory overview of oxyfuel cutting processes and basic arc welding techniques. Trainees learn the equipment, setup procedures, and safety practices associated with oxyfuel cutting of steel. The course also introduces the principles and equipment for three common arc welding processes: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). Hands-on labs emphasize safe operation, basic cutting, and introductory welding beads. This module is designed as an elective for crafts such as carpentry, where basic metal cutting and joining skills are beneficial, but it is not intended as comprehensive welding training.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:
- Identify and explain safety practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) required for oxyfuel cutting and arc welding operations.
- Recognize the components of oxyfuel cutting equipment and demonstrate proper setup, lighting, adjustment, and shutdown procedures.
- Perform basic oxyfuel cutting tasks on mild steel, including straight cuts, piercing, and beveling.
- Describe the fundamental principles, equipment, and applications of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW).
- Demonstrate basic setup and operation of arc welding equipment under supervision.
- Identify common weld imperfections and quality standards in introductory welds.
Performance Tasks
(Required for NCCER accreditation; must be completed under instructor supervision)
- Safely set up, light, adjust, and shut down oxyfuel cutting equipment.
- Perform straight-line and piercing cuts on mild steel plate using oxyfuel torch.
- Strike an arc and deposit basic stringer beads using at least one arc welding process (e.g., SMAW).
- Demonstrate safe handling and basic operation of GTAW and/or GMAW equipment.
Course Outline
| Session/Topic | Hours | Content Overview |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Safety Practices | 4 | Review of hazards in oxyfuel and arc welding; PPE requirements; fire prevention; ventilation; handling compressed gases; electrical safety. |
| 2. Oxyfuel Cutting Principles and Equipment | 4 | Components of oxyfuel systems (cylinders, regulators, hoses, torches); gas properties (acetylene, oxygen); setup and leak testing. |
| 3. Oxyfuel Cutting Techniques | 6 (incl. lab) | Lighting/adjusting flame; straight cuts, bevels, piercing, washing; troubleshooting common issues; hands-on practice. |
| 4. Introduction to Arc Welding Processes | 4 | Overview of SMAW (stick), GTAW (TIG), and GMAW (MIG); equipment components, power sources, electrodes/filler metals, shielding gases. |
| 5. Basic Arc Welding Setup and Operation | 4 (incl. lab) | Machine setup; striking an arc; running beads; basic joint preparation; supervised practice with SMAW and/or other processes. |
| 6. Review, Troubleshooting, and Assessment | 2 | Weld inspection; common defects; module review; written exam and performance verification. |
Required Materials
- NCCER Trainee Guide (Module 27407-14)
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Welding helmet, gloves, leather jacket/apron, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection
- Access to oxyfuel cutting station and arc welding equipment (provided in lab)
- Notebook and pen for notes
Assessment and Grading
- Written Exam: Multiple-choice test covering theory, safety, and procedures (70% passing required)
- Performance Verification: Instructor-evaluated hands-on tasks (must demonstrate competency in all required tasks)
- Attendance/Participation: Full attendance required for hands-on components; active participation in labs
- Final Credential: Passing both written and performance components results in NCCER module completion and registry entry
Policies
- Safety: Zero tolerance for safety violations; immediate removal from lab for non-compliance.
- Attendance: Missed labs must be made up; excessive absences may require repeating the module.
- Academic Integrity: All work must be original; cheating results in failure.
This syllabus aligns with NCCER’s standardized curriculum and prepares trainees for safe, entry-level application of these skills in construction-related trades. For the latest module updates, refer to official NCCER resources.