Diploma in Rubber Technology

To equip the learner with appropriate technical and managerial knowledge and skills to enable him/her to function efficiently in the whole spectrum of the rubber industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Access may be granted, through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements.

Entry Requirements

• A qualification at Level 5 in Rubber Technology, Level 5.
• National Senior Certificate, Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies Senior Certificate, Level 4 with Matriculation exemption.
• National Certificate Vocation, Level 4 with a relevant specialisation, granting access to Diploma studies.

1. Manage raw materials flow in a production environment.
2. Do any rubber compound design development.
3. Organise and manage rubber compound flow through the production process.
4. Do, interpret and manage physical and analytical analysis of rubber compounds.

Specified Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of all aspects of raw materials including formulas, manufacturing, uses limitations and health and safety aspects.
2. Design a new product from basic principles.
3. Demonstrate a complete understanding of each production process for tyre manufacture, conveyor belts, hoses, mouldings, fabrics, etc.
4. Manage a rubber-testing laboratory, and understand advanced tests.
5. Supervise and manage analytical personnel.
6. Ensure proper quality control procedures.

1. Describe the entire production process on the hand of scientific principles pertaining to rubber chemistry.
2. Design an entire production process.
3. Develop testing procedures for specific production processes.
4. Develop quality control procedures for specific production processes.
5. Apply health and safety procedures.
6. Identify design strengths and weaknesses of each polymer.
7. Use the correct chemicals.
8. Calculate correct ratios.
9. Design a prototype product and produce said prototypes using appropriate manufacturing processes.
10. Design a suitable management plan for the production of new products.
11. Develop standard operating procedures for specialised testing procedures.
12. Organise, interpret and critically evaluate the results obtained from analysis.
13. Develop technical skills of analytical personnel.
14. Manage technical skills of analytical personnel.
15. Apply internationally accepted quality procedures.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated combination of

• Written tests and examinations.
• Oral evaluations.
• Continuous evaluation.
• Report evaluation of practical capabilities.
• Report evaluations of competency in industry.