Suggested Learning Path to Obtain the Pump System Certification (PSC) Level 1
by Matt Derner, Senior Manager of Education & Training Resources, Hydraulic Institute
The Pump System Certification (PSC) Level 1 is the fluid handling industry’s first-ever pump-centric certification. It is designed for professionals looking to validate their knowledge and skills in pump system fundamentals. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to advance your career, earning this certification will set you apart as a knowledgeable and skilled professional in the industry.
The Pump System Certification (PSC) was developed by the Hydraulic Institute to provide third-party validation that individuals have the knowledge, training, and experience necessary to apply general pump system fundamental knowledge. This industry certification is for new or entry-level technical and non-technical persons and is applicable to all jobs functions within the fluid handling industry.
To successfully achieve PSC Level 1 certification, it is suggested to follow a structured learning path. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare effectively:
Step 1: Complete the Introductory Pump and System Training
Before diving into PSC Level 1 training, it’s essential to build a strong foundation in pump and system fundamentals. This introductory training covers:
- Pumps
- Pump Drivers
- Fluid Properties
- System Hydraulics
- Basic Operating Theory
- Pump Selection Data
This foundational training will help you gain a solid understanding of pump system operations, preparing you for more advanced concepts covered in the PSC Level 1 curriculum.
Step 2: Enroll in PSC Level 1 Training
Once you have completed the introductory training, the next step is to participate in the PSC Level 1 Training Program. This in-depth training covers 16 domains that are broke into modules and followed by quizzes to reinforce the learning objectives:
- Introduction to Pumps
- Pump Performance Curves and Power Consumption
- Pump Systems
- Rotodynamic Pump Designs and Types
- Positive Displacement Pump Designs and Types
- Pump Components and Accessories
- Drivers and Drives
- System Design Considerations
- Varying the Pump Operating Point
- Pump Selection and Specification
- Testing
- Pump Installation, Commissioning and Startup
- Maintenance
- Troubleshooting
- Pump System Optimization and Analysis
- Markets and Applications
This training aligns itself with the PSC Level-1 Certification
Step 3: Prepare for the PSC Level 1 Exam
The PSC- Level 1 exam prep provides an overview of each certification domain along with a domain challenge and sample certification exams.
- Knowledge challenge for each domain, which are geared towards certification exam type questions with explained answers following completion.
- Two (2) 70-question sample certification exams that can be taken an unlimited number of times with explained answers following completion.
- One (1) 140-question sample certification exam that combines the two shorter exams for those who desire to take a longer preparation exam.
Final Step: Take the PSC Level 1 Exam
The PSC Level 1 Exam validates that successful candidates have competencies that include, but are not limited to:
- In-depth knowledge of pump curves, system curves, and their interaction.
- Identifying all types of pumps along with the extended pump product.
- Understanding the basic operating theory of both rotodynamic and positive displacement pumps.
- Recognizing major pump components, terminology, and understanding their purpose.
- Performing basic pump industry calculations, such as power calculations and annual energy consumption.
- Understanding different fluid properties.
- Describing and applying basic concepts of variable speed pumping and control.
- Understanding the causes of common operating problems.
- Understanding basic installation, maintenance, and operation principles.
- Determining typical application considerations.
- Basic understanding of vibration analysis.
- Understanding pump curves as a tool to troubleshoot pump performance issues.