V03138 - Intermediate Apprentice Caulking / Burning

As a Caulking Apprentice, you will be involved in a variety of different tasks, primarily around plate preparation and metal removal. This role is broken down into four areas which are Gouging, Grinding, Burning and Tank Testing).

The Caulking trade is progressively adopting increasing levels of mechanisation and automation technology. As a Caulker you will learn to operate tractor mounted oxy-fuel burning equipment, arc-air and plasma gouging equipment, and milling systems. In addition was already undertake highly specialised robotic cutting and gouging processes. This leads into the programming, remote operation and production management of robotic processes on major structural components, essential for the manufacture of our submarines. 

Gouging has been designed for carbon-based metals and is used to remove metal, generally to prepare materials before welding is carried out. In carbon-arc gouging, an electric arc at the end of a consumable carbon rod melts the metal, and a continuous blast of compressed air blows the molten metal away. 

Grinding is used to dress areas to the correct size and to prepare weld joints so the required quality can be achieved. Grinding is also used to remove weld profiles prior to inspection.

Burning is used to cut steel to correct sizes prior to fabrication. This process uses oxygen and propane to heat the steel up to a molten state and then a jet of additional oxygen used to cut through the steel.

Tank Testing is used to confirm the integrity of the tanks. These are tested by blanking all holes into the tank and then using air or water to raise the pressure within the tank. You will be trained to then inspect the tank boundaries for leaks.

Training:

Engineering Operative Level 2. 

An apprenticeship includes regular training with a college or other training organisation. At least 20% of your working hours will be spent training or studying.

Training Outcome:

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Approximately 95% of apprentices choose to stay on with us. As a global business there are a world of opportunities - whether you decide to stay in the UK or explore an overseas role.

Employer Description:
At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world’s most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 people in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Working Hours :
Shifts to be confirmed

Skills:
Communication skills,Organisation skills,Team working