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overview
Note: This program is no longer accepting applications as there are no scheduled intakes.
The unusual and wide-ranging properties of plastic make it an ideal candidate for innovative new products. The program is designed to provide a solid background in the selection and application of plastic materials, the unique plastics processing technologies and the design and development of new products. The student receives practical hands-on training in a modern lab and manufacturing facility using the latest in production-scale equipment.
The Program
Emphasis is placed on plastics processes such as injection moulding, extrusion, thermoforming, rotational moulding, blow moulding, film production, and related quality assurance testing procedures. A study of the construction and design of plastic dies and moulds as well as product design is strongly backed by studies in materials science, polymer chemistry, mathematics, technical communication, mechanical design and computer-aided drafting.
Students participate in an industry-sponsored project in the second year of the program. The industry project is an integral program component required for completion and certification.
costs & supplies
Books and supplies
Level 1: $1,440; Level 2: $457; Level 3: $489; Level 4: $398
(general estimated cost, and subject to change)
courses
Program matrix
| Level 1 (15 weeks) |
Credits |
| |
CHEM 1120 |
General Chemistry for Plastics
Reviews the general principles of chemistry leading to an understanding of matter, plastic or otherwise. Includes physical and chemical changes, atomic structure and bonding. Equations, molar weights and stoichiometry provide the tools necessary to carry out reaction calculations and quantitative analysis. Also includes solution chemistry (mechanism, preparation, acid-base and redox), electrochemistry (for predicting corrosion in plastics processing equipment) and the behavior of gases, liquids and solids. Laboratory exercises are designed to teach safe working techniques and correct attitude. Here qualitative analysis and aqueous reactions are covered.
|
4.0 |
| |
COMM 1169 |
Technical Communication 1 for Mechanical Engineering
COMM 1169 teaches the basic skills for effective writing and speaking in industry. The course covers the layout, content and graphic techniques for technical writing and speaking. Assignments include summaries, instructions, process and/or mechanism descriptions, information reports, and an oral presentation. Reflective thinking, feedback opportunities, and oral/aural activities are embedded throughout lectures and labs. Interpersonal and inter-cultural communication are applied and practised as students are placed in randomly chosen, structured cooperative teams; detailed, team-based journal entries are written at the end of most lab classes and evaluated by the instructor.
|
3.0 |
| |
MATH 1491 |
Basic Technical Mathematics for Mechanical
Introduces differential calculus of polynomial functions including appropriate support topics from algebra, analytical geometry, plane geometry, trigonometry and the theory of logarithms and exponential functions. There will be strong emphasis on illustrating the mathematics with applications from technology, engineering and the physical sciences. Prerequisite: Admission to Program.
|
5.0 |
| |
MECH 1104 |
Computer Aided Design
Covers techniques for producing and reading mechanical drawings using industry standards and the development of drawing skills using computer aided techniques. Topics include orthographic projection, auxiliary views, dimensioning and the hierarchy of drawings. Introduces the computer hardware and operating systems necessary in a computer aided design environment.
|
4.0 |
| |
MECH 1141 |
Engineering Mechanics 1
This course introduces the basics for the design and analysis of many types of structures and mechanical devices encountered in engineering. Topics include trigonometry, vector analysis, forces, moments, free body diagrams (FBD) and equilibrium, applied to the analysis of frames, trusses, machines, cable-pulley systems and systems with friction.
|
4.0 |
| |
MECH 1171 |
Computer Applications and Programming
This course introduces students to the use of computers which is integral to all engineering disciplines. Students will use computers to communicate, solve problems, and analyse data using commercial application software and operating systems. Where software solutions do not exist, students will be required to create or modify application programs.
|
4.0 |
| |
PLAS 1110 |
Plastics Technology 1
Introduces plastics technology. Information is presented on the scope of the plastics industry, the basic composition of plastic materials, health, safety and environmental considerations. The various forms of plastics and ingredients added to plastics are reviewed. The plastics families, their properties and how those properties are determined are discussed in detail. Laboratory work complements lecture material.
|
4.0 |
|   |
| Level 2 (20 weeks) |
Credits |
| |
CHEM 2220 |
Organic Chemistry for Plastics
Surveys a wide selection of organic compounds. Starting with hydrocarbons, a firm foundation of organic structure and naming is established. Derivatives of hydrocarbons including alcohols, halides, phenols, amines, carbonyl compounds, carboxylic (acids, esters, amides, acid chlorides and acid anhydrides) are presented. Naming, structure, reactions and involvement in the plastics industry is emphasised throughout. Knowing the structure of commercial plastic materials, a correlation is made between their physical properties, intermolecular forces and end-use requirements. Lab work requires the use of safe working habits in separation, identification, characterization and analysis, and includes the preparation of several plastics in order to relate properties with structure and end use. Prerequisites: CHEM 1120
|
5.5 |
| |
CHSC 1262 |
Engineering Materials for Plastics Technology
Covers comparative properties of all classes of engineering materials including metals, alloys, polymers, concrete, wood and ceramics. Common causes of failure in service including fatigue, weathering, embrittlement and corrosion.
|
4.0 |
| |
MATH 2491 |
Calculus for Mechanical
A continuation of the differential calculus that was presented in MATH 1491and an introduction to integral calculus. Transcendental functions; related rates; maxima and minima; areas and volumes; centroids and moments of inertia; calculation of work and force due to fluid pressure; ordinary differential equations. Maple will be used for problem solving and function visualization. There will be a strong emphasis on illustrating the mathematics with applications from technology, engineering and physical sciences. Prerequisites: MATH 1491
|
6.5 |
| |
MECH 1210 |
Manufacturing Processes
Covers the basics of major manufacturing methods used today. Topics include metal cutting, welding, forming, casting, plastics processing, methods of numerical control and robotics programming as well as methods of measurement and inspection. The course addresses the principles upon which modern manufacturing processes are based.
|
5.5 |
| |
MECH 2204 |
Technical Graphics for Plastics
Knowledge of top-down assembly modeling and of Canadian drawing conventions and drafting practices is applied to develop technical documentation and communication skills. Three dimensional, parametric computer-aided design (CAD) models are created using SolidWorks software. Prerequisites: MECH 1104
|
4.0 |
| |
MECH 2240 |
Strength of Materials
This course provides a comprehensive coverage of important topics in strength of materials with emphasis on problem solving, applications and design of structural members, mechanical devices and systems. Topics include: stress, strain and deflection, tension, compression, shear, torsion, and buckling. Application to beams, columns, shafts, thin and thick-walled cylinders are considered. Prerequisites: MECH 1141
|
5.5 |
| |
PHYS 1162 |
Physics for Plastics Technology
Deals with basic concepts in linear and rotational kinematics/dynamics, electricity and magnetism, direct and alternating current circuits. General problem solving skills are emphasised and concept applications are discussed. Data acquisition and analysis are stressed in the laboratory. Prerequisites: MATH 1491
|
5.5 |
| |
PLAS 2210 |
Plastics Technology 2
Introduces the manufacturing processes used in the shaping and forming of plastic products. All major processes such as injection, extrusion, blown film, expansion, compression, blow molding, casting, coating as well as fabricating and decorating processes are covered. In addition, some discussion of tooling, mold making and design are discussed. In general, the key features, advantages and disadvantages, and equipment used are presented. Laboratory assignments cover the operating procedures for each process. Prerequisites: PLAS 1110
|
5.5 |
|   |
| Level 3 (15 weeks) |
Credits |
| |
CHEM 3320 |
Polymer Chemistry and Technology
The different ways in which plastics behave during processing and in service depend on the polymer chains which are present; additives and the incorporation of comonomers can modify this behavior. Polymer properties such as glass transition temperature, crystallinity, crystal melting temperature, molecular weight and molecular weight distribution. CHEM 3320 shows how these variables are related to the chemical structure of the polymer by exploring many commercial examples of condensation and addition polymers. Lab work involves a series of polymer preparations, analyses, identifications and characterizations. Prerequisites: CHEM 2220
|
4.0 |
| |
ELEX 2845 |
Electrical Equipment
This course shall serve to introduce electrical equipment and systems found in the industrial and commercial environment to students who can expect to encounter such hardware in the course of their careers. The course will address those topics of key concern to non-electrical personnel in the mechanical and process industries. These will include: Electrical ltransmissions, energy rate structure and demand charges, line loss, power factor and power quality; abnormal circuit conditions and circuit protection devices; transformer operation and applications; three-phase power and its advantages; AC motors and drives; electrical controls: switches, relays and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Prerequisites: PHYS 1162 or PHYS 2146 or PHYS 2149
|
4.0 |
| |
MECH 2350 |
Fluid Power 1
Introduces power transmission using pneumatic and hydraulic systems. Function, construction, methods of control, and sizing calculations for typical system components are covered. Laboratory sessions examine and apply various component and system attributes in the development and testing of simple and sequential control circuits. Prerequisites: MECH 1141
|
3.0 |
| |
OPMT 1411 |
Production Engineering Management
This basic level course is intended to survey the general background of production planning and control and materials management from the supplier through to the consumer. Major topics include the production planning system (MRP II) master production scheduling, capacity management, production activity control, purchasing, forecasting, inventory fundamentals, independent demand inventory and physical inventory warehousing and distribution.
|
5.0 |
| |
PLAS 3310 |
Plastics Technology 3
Presents a more in-depth coverage of injection molding: process and equipment specifications, operating characteristics, thermodynamics, as well as processing variables and their effect on product quality. For the extrusion process the principles of rheology are applied to the design of extrusion dies and to understanding plastic behaviour under processing conditions. Considerable laboratory time is spent learning to efficiently set up production scale equipment and to operate it effectively. Laboratory scale studies are designed to investigate material processing characteristics and product quality as they relate to rheological properties of plastics under various process conditions. Prerequisites: PLAS 2210
|
7.0 |
| |
PLAS 3320 |
Fibre Reinforced Plastics
Presents a general review of fibre reinforced manufacturing processes and an introduction to composites used in the aerospace industries including part design and structural analysis to meet strength requirements. Lab work includes resin systems, cure cycles, materials handling and safety; structural repair and finishing procedures as well as part construction, inspection, testing and structural bonding. Prerequisites: PLAS 2210
|
5.0 |
| |
PLAS 3340 |
Plastics Design
Focuses on injection molded parts and mold design. Mold stresses during injection cycle are discussed and stress calculations are used for sizing of mold components. Design rules for injection molded parts are reviewed along with the type and function of runners and gates. Materials and heat treatment of die components and tooling are discussed in relationship to required mold performance. Prerequisites: PLAS 2210 and MECH 2240
|
2.0 |
|   |
| Level 4 (20 weeks) |
Credits |
| |
COMM 2269 |
Technical Communication 2 for Mechanical Engineering
This course applies the writing and speaking techniques from COMM 1169 to produce a project proposal, progress report, project poster, and formal project report. Meeting skills, interpersonal communication techniques and oral reports are integral parts of the course. In addition, students will prepare a resume and cover letter. A project course must be taken concurrently. Prerequisites: COMM 1169
|
4.0 |
| |
MATH 4491 |
Statistical Quality Control
Descriptive statistics, the hypergeometric, Poisson, binomial and normal probability models; an introduction to hypothesis testing, tolerances and fits; sampling distributions, capability analysis (Cp, Cpk, Cr) and design of acceptance sampling plans, use of Mil-Std-105E (ANSI/ASQC Z1.4-1993), risks in sampling; statistical process control (SPC), use and interpretation of control charting for x-bar and R or s, percent defective (p-charts), number of defects (c-charts), short run SPC including charts for individuals, target charts and charting part families. MATH 4491 provides a sound foundation for students hoping to eventually challenge the American Society for Quality's certified Quality Technician and Engineer examinations. Prerequisites: MATH 1491
|
5.5 |
| |
MECH 3440 |
Mechanical Equipment
Presents a study of mechanical transmissions using belts, chains and gear reducers in drive configurations, along with associated components and ancillary systems from an application, specification, selection, maintenance and safety point of view. Prerequisites: MECH 1141
|
2.5 |
| |
MECH 3451 |
Fluid Power 2
Introduces electrical control of fluid power systems. Describes and analyses complex hydraulic and pneumatic components and their applications. Covers sizing calculations for system components, and discusses maintenance and troubleshooting of components and systems. Prerequisites: MECH 2350
|
2.5 |
| |
MECH 3460 |
Engineering Economics
Emphasises the importance of making sound economic decisions when faced with alternative methods of solving technical problems. The course material provides the basic skills and concepts required to analyse comparative costs and to understand the time value of money (interest), inflation, depreciation, running costs, salvage value and tax considerations.
|
2.0 |
| |
MECH 4450 |
Mechanical Control Systems
Presents descriptions of components in a programmable logic controller (PLC). Create ladder logic diagrams and use high-level softwares for programming a PLC. Selection of hardware components such as encoders, proximity sensors and actuators. Study of DC motor characteristics and load requirements. Compares open and closed loop systems. Prerequisites: ELEX 2845
|
2.5 |
| |
OPMT 1182 |
Total Quality Management
This course will equip mechanical technology and plastics graduates with the skills to institute productivity improvement in a manufacturing environment. They will be effective in assisting organizations to achieve continuous improvement. These firms will be able to successfully achieve ISO 9000 registration certification.
|
5.5 |
| |
PLAS 3445 |
Injection Molding Analysis
Course introduces MoldFlow software to simulate and analyse plastics flow regimes in injection molds. It covers injection molding parameters optimization, cavity flow balancing as well as necessary mold design changes based on mold fill results interpretation. Prerequisites: MECH 2204 and PLAS 3340
|
2.5 |
| |
PLAS 4410 |
Plastics Technology 4
Extends from PLAS 3310, presenting a more in-depth review of the extruder, film and pipe extrusion process, blow molding process, equipment, materials and operating characteristics. Basic machine and plant raw material handling systems are reviewed and an introduction into job and part cost determination is also included. Prerequisites: PLAS 3310
|
8.0 |
| |
PLAS 4490 |
Plastics Project
Students to solicit/select an industry sponsored project or propose their own project. Each project team of two or more students prepares a proposal and, once approved, presents the information to the class. Verbal and written status and final reports are presented. Students are assigned to a faculty advisor and may seek help from their peers. Emphasis is on acquiring good project management skills. Prerequisites: PLAS 3310 and PLAS 3320 and COMM 2269** (** must be taken concurrently)
|
5.5 |
| |
| Total Credits: |
139.5 |
The program is in a process of continuous improvement, thus the actual courses may vary from those shown.
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if
they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's
Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
program details
Program length
Two years, full-time beginning in September each year.
Accreditation
Plastics Engineering Technology is accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) for the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists (CCTT) as a technologist program. Full-time students may apply for student membership with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC). Graduates are eligible for Graduate Technologist (ASTTBC) membership and may apply for registration as an Applied Science Technologist after completing a minimum of two years of relevant experience.
Continue Your Education
Degree Completion
Graduates have continuing education opportunities through the Bachelor of Technology in Manufacturing degree program which enables graduates to complete a degree on a part-time basis.
graduating & jobs
Job Opportunities
The plastics industry is relatively young worldwide and one of the fastest growing technology sectors in Canada, particularly in BC This tremendous growth is expected to continue on a broad scale. Graduates of the Plastics Engineering Technology program will find opportunities for satisfying and rewarding careers in manufacturing, product and process research and development, technical sales and marketing, product and mould design, inspection and quality control. A lack of well-trained people together with exceptional growth has meant supervisory positions are assumed quite rapidly.
faculty, advisors & staff
Advisory Committee
- Nimmi Bangert, Canadian Plastic Industry Association
- Richard Chin, Aeon Pacific Manufacturing
- Maurice Hodgson, AMCOR Twinpak North America
- Greg Howard, Columbia Plastic Ltd.
- Stephen Howarth, Comptech International Ltd.
- David Moore, Johnston Heights Secondary School
- Scott Morrison, Ministry of Competition, Science and Enterprise
- Matjaz Paulic, PH Molds Limited
- Dan Sabourin, ASI Plastics Ltd.
As BCIT strives to keep our programs current, programs and courses are subject to change without notice.
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Big Info Session March 31
Join us on March 31 from 5-8 p.m. for our Big Info Session and Program Expo.
Find out more >
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