11–12Industrial Technology 11–12 Syllabus (2026)

Describe processes used in the extraction and production of metals, including iron, steel and aluminium

Identify sustainability considerations associated with metal extraction and primary processing

Describe the properties of metal, including thermal expansion, conductivity, ductility, malleability, tensile strength, hardness and corrosion resistance

Explain how metal properties influence machining, forming and fabrication processes

Compare the properties and performance of metals and alloys, including mild steel, medium-carbon and high-carbon steels, aluminium, copper, brass and bronze

Explain how material composition, alloying and processing techniques influence metal performance, including work hardening, forging, drawing, upsetting and heat treatment

Describe the forms, shapes and sections of metals used in production, including flat bars, round bars, square bars, I-beams, channels, hollow sections, sheet metal, plates and extruded profiles

Explain how metal defects affect material performance and product quality, including cracks, inclusions, porosity and surface irregularities

Select and operate metalworking hand tools, power tools and machinery for measuring, marking out, cutting, forming, machining, joining and finishing

Use jigs, fixtures, clamps and templates to improve accuracy, consistency, safety and production efficiency

Describe maintenance procedures and schedules for tools and equipment to maintain safety, accuracy and calibration, and to extend service life

Perform routine maintenance of tools and equipment to support safe operation, including cleaning, lubrication, basic inspection and adjustment

Handle and process metals in project production, considering material properties, machining requirements, production constraints and safety

Apply strategies to improve material efficiency and reduce waste during metal production

Explore the integration of complementary materials in metal-based projects, including polymers, timber, composites and electrical components, considering compatibility, function and visual outcomes

Use drawings, templates and prototypes to inform production

Document project planning using materials lists, cutting lists, process selection, calculations and costings

Sequence metalworking processes and operations for production

Investigate metalworking machinery used for cutting, forming, machining, drilling, grinding and surface preparation

Prepare metal for production, including marking out and surface preparation

Apply machining, forming and fabrication processes used in metalworking

Manufacture individual components and assemblies

Assemble metal components using welding, adhesives, mechanical fastening systems and fittings

Identify welded joints used in metalworking, including butt joints, lap joints, fillet joints and corner joints

Identify fittings, fasteners and allied materials used in metal products, including screws, bolts, nuts, rivets, solders and fluxes

Identify adhesives and sealants used in metalworking applications

Identify metal casting processes used in industry, including sand casting, die casting, investment casting and lost-wax casting

Identify surface preparation and finishing systems used in metal production, including sanding, abrasive blasting, electroplating, acid etching and spray finishes

Apply measurement and inspection processes for accuracy and quality control

Refine production processes to improve accuracy, function and finish

Investigate manufacturing systems used for precision, repeatability and production efficiency

Identify industrial metalworking processes and automated systems including computer numerical control (CNC) machining, robotic welding and batch production methods

Explain how industrial metal manufacturing systems achieve precision, repeatability and production efficiency through automated and computer-controlled processes

Describe industrial cutting, forming, machining and joining practices

Examine the role of automated and computer-controlled technologies in metal industries, including CNC machining, robotic welding and batch production systems