Technology: Power Engineering Technology - Diploma

  • This program is currently closed to application

Program Overview

Location(s):
  • SIAST Kelsey Campus, Saskatoon
Length: 72 weeks: 

Year 1 - 36 weeks; Year 2 - 36 weeks

Overview

Power Engineering Technology is a diploma program. It is currently subject to the high-demand admission process.

Note: This program is open for application from 8:00 a.m., October 1 to 4:30 p.m., February 15 (Saskatchewan times) each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), February 28(29).

A limited number of international applicants are considered for admission to the program.

Power Engineering Technology provides knowledge and skill development in the operation of a power (steam) plant or industrial processes.

You will receive training in:

  • high and low pressure boiler operations
  • water treatment systems
  • pump operations
  • controls and instrumentation
  • air conditioning and refrigeration
  • checking and maintaining equipment
  • using computers to monitor plant operations
  • plant safety
  • environmental (pollution) management
  • communications

Power Engineering is not an apprenticeship trade; however, like apprenticeship trades, it is divided into levels of skill and training. The levels are referred to as classes with First Class being the highest level. A combination of work experience and course completions followed by rigorous interprovincial examinations allows a power engineer to progress from one class to another.

Year 1 - Semesters 1 and 2

You will study Fourth Class interprovincial standardized material as preparation to challenge the interprovincial Fourth Class examinations. You will also acquire boiler firing time in our power lab and by participating in industry work experiences.

After successfully completing your first year, you will also be eligible to challenge the provincial exam to obtain the Refrigeration Engineers Certificate required to operate larger refrigeration plants in Saskatchewan.

Year 2 - Semester 3

You will receive instruction and boiler operating time at the Third Class level. This will allow you to challenge interprovincial Third Class examinations.

Year 2 - Semester 4

Your studies will focus on the standardized material required to write the interprovincial Boiler and Pressure Vessel Safety Second Class Part A examinations.

The standardized interprovincial examination fees are:

Fourth Class - $200 (Year 1)

Third Class - $400 (Year 2)

Second Class - $600 (Year 2)

The provincial examination fee for the Refrigeration Engineers exam is $100.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared to work as power engineers and process operators in a variety of industrial and heating plants. These include utility (power) plants, refineries, hospitals, pulp and paper mills, breweries, mines, gas processing plants, heavy oil upgraders, fertilizer plants or chemical plants.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

Program Details

Start Date(s): August

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Admission Information

Admission Requirements

 

Note

  • Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics C30 are not admission requirements; however, they would be extremely helpful to your success in the program and may be required by some employers as a condition of employment.

 

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

  • Math B30 

Admission Method

High Demand

High-demand programs consistently have more applicants than spaces available at each SIAST location at which they are offered. High-demand programs have admission requirements plus additional selection criteria. The application period for high-demand programs is 8:00 a.m., October 1, to 4:30 p.m., February 15 (Saskatchewan times), each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), February 28(29).

Selection Criteria

  • Phase I for High School Graduates: The admission average is calculated from the final marks in courses required for admission to the program.
  • Phase I for Current High School Students: The admission average is calculated from final marks provided by February 28(29). Conditional admission may be granted on this basis. Current high school students must order transcripts to be sent directly to SIAST at the end of Semester 1 and the end of Semester 2 of the grade 12 year. The final grade 12 mark will be used where the course is completed. The final grade 11 mark will be used only in the absence of the grade 12 mark in the same subject.
  • Additional percentage points will also be awarded for previous post-secondary completions, work experience, and career awareness and investigation.

For required information on preparing your application, refer to the
Selection Process Guide for Applicants.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.


Transfer Credit

Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.

 

Courses

PE Year 1, Semester 1 Required

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CHEM 100

Chemistry

You will receive a general overview of the fundamental principles in the structure, formation and interaction of chemical compounds and the importance of chemistry in industrial operations.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2
COMP 172

Introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel

Your studies will introduce you to the purpose and uses of a word processor and electronic spreadsheet. You will develop the basic skills of creating, editing and formatting documents and spreadsheets.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 15

Equivalent Course(s): COAP 120, COAP 172, COAP 381, COMP 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Web CT/Blackboard

1
DRFT 103

Basic Mechanical Drafting

You will learn the basic fundamentals used in the interpreting and sketching of technical drawings.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 181

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2
ENGP 103

Legislation and Codes

You will review the various provincial, Canadian and ASME legislation and codes related to the construction and operation of boilers, pressure vessels and refrigeration plants.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 15

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

1
ENGP 180

Power Lab 1

You will learn the major components of a steam plant and participate in the start-up of the equipment which is similar to that used in industry. You will also perform water testing and chemical treatment.


Credit Units: 4

Lab Hours: 54

Equivalent Course(s): PROP 182

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lab/Practical

4
ENGP 181

Plant Maintenance 1

You will learn about and practice the various types of maintenance required to keep plant equipment functioning in a safe workplace.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 54

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
ENGP 186

Pumps, Compressors, and Lubrication

You will receive an introduction to the characteristics and operation of pumps and compressors. Your studies will include a focus on lubrication, its properties, methods of application and importance to efficient equipment operation.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
MATH 299

Intermediate Algebra and Basic Trigonometry

You will review the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry. The course content includes algebraic operations on equations, problem solving, quadratic equations, systems of linear equations, areas, volumes and basic trigonometry.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Equivalent Course(s): MAT 120, TSYH 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
SEM 101

Technology Seminars

You will receive an orientation to your program and learn where and how the technician/technologist fits into the workplace and society. You will become familiar with the role of technicians/technologists in society, study and time management skills, increasing diversity in the workplace, principles of sustainability, the impact of technology on society and workplace safety requirements.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 16

Equivalent Course(s): ENGM 181, ETHC 183, ORTN 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

1
SFTY 172

Safety

You will receive general safety information related to power engineering. You will study the basic principles dealing with personal safety equipment, fire safety and WHMIS. You will learn about environmental pollutants and their methods of control. An overview of the Transportation of Dangerous goods legislation will be discussed. Communication as it pertains to health and safety will be studied. A review of some of the occupational health hazards in industry and methods of prevention of incidents will be undertaken.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

3
STEA 184

Steam Generation 1

You will receive an introduction to boiler terminology, design, operation and government regulations and codes pertaining to boilers.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 70

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

5
TCOM 100

Technical Communications 1

You will practice job-related interpersonal, oral and written communication skills as well as teamwork skills. You will apply job search techniques, develop a targeted resume and study job interview techniques.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 25

Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 120, TCOM 120, TCOM 140

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
THER 182

Thermodynamics 1

You will receive an introduction to the field of thermodynamics. You will learn the quantities, units and principles involved in elementary thermodynamics.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Equivalent Course(s): PHYS 224

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
THER 183

Applied Mechanics 1

You will receive an introduction to the field of mechanics. You will learn the quantities, units and principles involved in statics and dynamics.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Equivalent Course(s): MECA 121

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
WTER 100

Water Treatment 1

The course will introduce you to some of the basic methods utilized in power plants to prepare and maintain the water used in steam generation.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 15

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

1

PE Year 1, Semester 2 Required

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
ELEC 188

Basic Electricity 1

You will be introduced to the basics of DC and AC circuits and machines. You will use electrical metering devices, perform electrical calculations and describe the operation of transformers and electrical distribution systems.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 45

Corequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): ELEC 288, PHYS 224

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

3
ENGP 100

Heating Systems 1

You will receive an introduction to heating boiler terminology, design, operation and government regulations. You will also learn about the controls for steam and hot water heating boilers.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 25

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2
ENGP 101

Heating Systems 2

Building on the knowledge gained in ENGP 100 (Heating Systems 1), you will study the various types of heating systems. You will learn the importance of building ventilation. You will also study auxiliary building systems.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 20

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 100

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

1
ENGP 183

Prime Movers

Your studies will focus on the basics of steam and gas turbine construction and operation, internal combustion engines and steam engines used in industry.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
ENGP 187

Power Lab 2

The course is a continuation of ENGP 180 (Power Lab 1). You will manipulate steam production with the purpose of operating turbines, heat exchangers, pumps and auxiliary fuel systems in a functioning high pressure steam lab. The lab will allow you to bring all of your previously learned theory and skills together in order to validate your knowledge and operating skills.


Credit Units: 4

Lab Hours: 54

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 180

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

4
ENGP 188

Plant Maintenance 2

The course is a continuation of ENGP 181 (Plant Maintenance 1). You will receive hands-on training on plant maintenance tasks (including the construction of piping systems, shaft alignment and boiler cleaning, maintenance and repair).


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 67

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 181

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
INST 182

Instrumentation

You will be introduced to the operation and application of control loops, control signals, actuators and control valves. You will study programmable logic control and the operation of boiler controls.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 40

Corequisites(s): ELEC 188

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
PROP 141

Process Simulations 1

You will be introduced to the operation of computer controlled systems used to operate plant equipment. You will have the opportunity to run a piping system using simulation.


Credit Units: 1

Other Hours: 12

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

1
PROP 198

Plant and Process Operations

You will learn about industrial processes used to manufacture a variety of different products. You will study the equipment used in these industrial processes.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 52

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
RFRG 183

Air Conditioning

You will receive the information needed to operate and maintain a building's air conditioning system.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 40

Equivalent Course(s): AIR 288

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

3
RFRG 195

Refrigeration Systems

The course provides an introduction to the principles of refrigeration used in power plants.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 55

Prerequisites(s): THER 182

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
TCOM 101

Technical Communications 2

You will write workplace documents. You will practice meeting skills and deliver short presentations.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 25

Prerequisites(s): TCOM 100

Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 121, COMM 127, COMM 187, COMM 191, TCOM 103, TCOM 123

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2
WORK 185

Work Experience 1

You will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of a boiler in the workplace. You will study the impact of shift work on personal health and wellness. You will learn how to effectively manage the negative effects commonly associated with rotating shift work. This experience will help you relate theory you learned to an operational plant. It will also help you develop contacts for possible future employment.


Credit Units: 0

Lab Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): SEM 101, SFTY 172

Learning Method(s): Work Experience - Group

0

PE Year 2, Semester 3 Required

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
ELEC 291

Basic Electricity 2

Building on the knowledge gained in ELEC 188 (Basic Electricity 1) your studies will cover topics including electrical: theory, circuits, machines and calculations. These topics are required for 3rd Class Power Engineering certification.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 45

Prerequisites(s): ELEC 188

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

3
ENGP 280

Refrigeration

You will build on the introductory concepts and knowledge that you developed in the 4th Class Refrigeration course. You will focus on industrial applications dealing specifically with compressors, auxiliaries and controls.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 25

Prerequisites(s): RFRG 195

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
ENGP 282

Combustion and Piping Systems

Your studies will focus on fuels, combustion and piping. You will learn how to perform calculations, study draft equipment, and do flue gas analysis required for optimum efficiency in plant operation.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 20

Prerequisites(s): STEA 184

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

1
ENGP 284

Applied Mechanics 2

Your studies will focus on theory and calculations applied to the power engineering field. The course content includes mass, force, motion, energy, power, vectors and stress calculations.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Prerequisites(s): THER 183

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
ENGP 285

Power Lab 3

Building on the knowledge and skills you acquired in ENGP 187 (Power Lab 2) you will continue to operate plant equipment with an emphasis on computerized control systems. You will have the opportunity to develop your supervisory skills by assuming the role of Chief Engineer in the power lab. The course augments the Boiler Branch requirements for plant experience as qualifying time to challenge the inter-provincial examinations for 3rd Class certification.


Credit Units: 3

Lab Hours: 40

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 187

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

3
ENGP 286

Codes and Calculations 1

You will investigate the various areas covered by the ASME codes, CSA codes and the Provincial Boiler Act and Regulations. You will study and practice ASME code calculations.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 20

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 103

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

1
ENGP 290

Pumps and Compressors

The course is a continuation of ENGP 186 (Pumps, Compressors and Lubrication). You will receive more in depth information on the design and operation of various pumps. You will expand your knowledge of pumping terminology and calculations, air compression and system components.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 186

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
ENGP 292

Prime Movers and Plant Auxiliaries

You will enhance your skills and knowledge about prime movers used in industry. The course provides higher level training on internal combustion engines, gas turbines and steam turbines used in large heating and industrial plants. Cogeneration systems, heat exchangers and fired heaters are also described in this course.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 50

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 183

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
ENGP 293

Plant Management and Safety

The course expands on your knowledge of the maintenance techniques and strategies used by power engineers in industry. You will study environmental concerns related to the industry and review safety management programs.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 15

Prerequisites(s): SFTY 172

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

1
INST 280

Controls and Instrumentation

You will study boiler controls and plant instrumentation in more depth. You will also study the computer operating systems used in industry to monitor and control boiler firing systems, and tour some of these plants.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): INST 182

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
MATH 390

Technical Mathematics for Engineering Calculations

Building on MATH 299, you will receive advanced instruction and practice using algebra and geometry-trigonometry with emphasis on calculations used in THER 281 (Thermodynamics 2) and ENGP 284 (Applied Mechanics 2).


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 20

Prerequisites(s): MATH 299

Equivalent Course(s): CALC 181, MAT 246

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

1
PROP 280

Process Simulations 2

Using foundational knowledge learned in PROP 141, you will build on your ability to operate computer controlled systems used to operate plant equipment. You will be introduced to a new boiler simulation.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): PROP 141

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
STEA 286

Steam Generation 2

Your focus will be on larger steam generators found in industrial plants. You will examine specialized boiler types, construction, auxiliaries, operating procedures, firing equipment and control systems used for steam generation. You will also examine various welding procedures, inspection methods and pressure vessel information.


Credit Units: 4

Lecture Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): INST 182, STEA 184

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

4
THER 281

Thermodynamics 2

Your studies will focus on the theory and calculations related to boiler operation and efficiency. The course content includes calculations using steam tables, gas laws, equivalent evaporation, factor of evaporation, mixtures and thermal expansion.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Prerequisites(s): THER 182

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
WORK 186

Work Experience 2

You will have the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of a 4th Class or higher steam plant with a different function than your first work experience. With this additional experience you will gain more insight into the different boilers and equipment which you will be qualified to operate. It will also help you make a more informed choice and to develop contacts for future employment.


Credit Units: 0

Lab Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): WORK 185

Learning Method(s): Work Experience - Group

0
WTER 280

Water Treatment 2

This course covers in detail chemistry, combustion and corrosion as they relates to water treatment. You will examine the external treating units more closely and gain a complete understanding of chemical reactions. You will study chemical equations involved with combustion and corrosion to develop an understanding of excess air and its importance in the combustion of various fuels employed to provide heat in a steam generator.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 40

Prerequisites(s): CHEM 100, WTER 100

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3

PE Year 2, Semester 4 Required

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
ADMN 288

Industrial Administration and Plant Management

You will study the factors and codes governing plant designs and legislation as well as the engineering and administration involved in plant erection or modifications. You will learn management techniques related to personnel, planning, plant maintenance and safety programs.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 35

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 103, ENGP 293

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
ENGP 189

Code Calculations 2

You will learn to use the ASME Section 1 and VIII codes. You will learn to perform calculations needed for repairs and construction of boilers and pressure vessels.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 45

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 286

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
ENGP 288

Applied Mechanics 3

Previous topics you covered in this area will be reinforced at a more advanced level. The course content includes centrifugal force, moments, couples and centroids, torsion, fluid mechanics, flow and orifices and weirs.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 75

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 284

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

5
ENGP 289

Power Lab 4

You will study second class power engineer responsibilities in the control and management of a power plant. You will learn to conduct various efficiency tests and will have the opportunity to apply your supervisory skills in the power lab. You will produce power using a steam turbine driven generator.


Credit Units: 3

Lab Hours: 40

Prerequisites(s): ENGP 285

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

3
ENGP 295

Metallurgy and Testing of Materials

You will study the structure of various metals and their alloys, heat treatments and the application of these metals in power plants. You will identify the various material defects and the destructive and non-destructive tests used to detect them.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
PROP 290

Process Simulations 3

You will build on abilities developed in PROP 280 by programming computer controlled systems used to operate plant equipment. You will operate boiler simulations with multiple I/O devices.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): PROP 280

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
STEA 287

Steam Generation 3

You will learn the design factors of different steam generators and their components. You will study the specialized designs of boilers and their operations and the maintenance and inspection techniques required to operate them safely. You will learn to install and operate large centrifugal pumps in large power plants.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 40

Prerequisites(s): STEA 286

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
THER 282

Thermodynamics 3

The material you learned in previous courses will be reinforced. You will learn advanced calculations that deal with gas laws, specific heats, gas expansion and compression, properties of steam, dryness fraction, calorimeters, internal energy, entropy, thermal efficiency, heat engines, temperature-entropy diagrams and thermodynamic cycles.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 75

Prerequisites(s): THER 281

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

5
WORK 280

Work Experience 3

You will have an opportunity to observe and/or participate in the operation of a minimum 2nd Class high pressure power plant. This experience will help you to relate the theory and apply the operating skills you learned in the Power Lab to a functioning plant. This course will also develop contacts for possible future employment while providing you with the opportunity to experience the day to day operations which occur in various power plants.


Credit Units: 0

Lab Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): WORK 186

Learning Method(s): Work Experience - Group

0
WTER 181

Water Treatment 3

You will learn about the need for and the methods used to treat water in large power plants. You will learn to use instruments in order to detect problems, take samples and measure chemical levels. You will study treatment and testing methods for cooling water, industrial waste treatment and potable water.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): WTER 280

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2

Facebook Twitter Youtube SIAST News RSS Feed

SIAST is Saskatchewan's primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training, recognized nationally and internationally for its expertise and innovation. Through program and course registrations, SIAST serves 26,000 distinct students with programs that touch every sector of the economy. SIAST operates campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and provides a number of courses and programs through distance education.

©