Diploma in Quarry Technology

Module descriptions

Quarry Technology 1 (30 credits)
During this module you will develop your understanding of the issues associated with the exploration, exploitation and development of a quarry. The areas you'll cover include the different methods of winning, loading and transporting quarried materials and the associated health, safety and environmental issues. There is a focus on enhancing your knowledge of the geology that is beneficial to the safe and effective operation of a quarry and the identification of geological hazards. You'll also develop the practical surveying techniques that are used in the development of quarrying operations.

Quarry Technology 2 (30 credits)
You'll develop your knowledge and understanding of quarry technology covering mineral processing techniques such as sand and gravel separation, and classification techniques and their applications within the quarrying industry. You'll also explore a range of health, safety and environmental issues that are relevant to quarrying operations, particularly in respect of risk control and the preventation of health and safety incidents, the issues associated with sustainable development and environmental legislation and its implication for the minerals extractive industry.

Quarry Blasting (15 credits)
This module is aimed at supervisory personnel in the field of blasting. You'll enhance your understanding of the requirements of blasting so you can carry out your responsibilities safely and efficiently in ways that maximise blasting performance while also optimising overall costs to the operator.

Business Management (15 credits)
You'll develop the business skills and knowledge you need to effectively manage in the quarry industry. You'll look at the human and financial implications of running a successful business, and the importance of effective management in achieving the highest standards of performance in health, safety and the environment.

Applied Engineering (15 credits)
This module builds on what you've already learned during the more theoretical modules to extend your understanding of mechanical power transmission systems, electrical power transmission system, usage costs and savings as they are applied to plant and instrumentation in the quarrying and asphalt industries.

You'll develop your understanding of:

• the principles and concepts associated with heat and fuels and their application
• hydraulic systems, their application and associated dangers
• the principles of physics relating to the behaviour of gases and their application
• the construction and operation of compressors, pumps and internal combustion engines.

Finally, you'll develop your awareness of the fundamental principles of corrosion and the need for lubrication and bearings, and look at a range of plant operating and maintenance schemes.

Engineering Theory (15 credits)
This module builds on what you've already learned on the Foundation Engineering module to further develop your understanding of the principles of mechanics and their application. In particular, you'll look at the principles and concepts associated with the use of AC electricity. In conjunction, you'll develop the understanding you'll need to properly assess the risk associated with the technology of the quarry industry.

Construction Materials (15 credits)
This module will develop your knowledge of construction materials made from aggregates and the standards, specifications and other requirements that apply to them. You'll look at aspects such as the methods used to safely sample and test aggregates, bituminous mixtures and ready mixed concrete.

Foundation Engineering (15 credits)
You'll develop your understanding of the principles and concepts of basic mechanics and look at the basic theories and concepts of electricity, electrical circuits, electrical measurement, magnetism and electromagnetic induction. You'll apply your own experience and observation to develop a wider understanding of the use of engineering principles.

Industry Technology (15 credits)
You'll be introduced to geological processes and phenomena and the fundamental principles and concepts surrounding the role of earth sciences in a modern technological society. You'll study the concept of resources, methods of exploration and exploitation, the importance of geological resources to the construction industry, geotechnical aspects of civil engineering and the identification of geological hazards.

Mathematics (15 credits)
You'll understand mathematical principles and techniques and learn how to apply them to applications in the fields of engineering and quarry technology. You'll apply your own experience and observation to develop a wider understanding of the use of mathematics.

Start dates

September