Fitter (Ordnance Factory) Apprenticeship Course Syllabus

Course Title

Fitter (Ordnance Factory) Apprenticeship Course

Course Code

FMOFOR101

Description

This course, under the Flexible Memorandum of Understanding (Flexi-MoU) Scheme within the Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS), provides specialized training for fitters in ordnance factories. It focuses on assembling, maintaining, and repairing mechanical systems and components, including weapon systems (e.g., rifles, artillery), ammunition production machinery, and precision equipment. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience using precision tools, performing equipment overhauls, and troubleshooting mechanical faults, preparing them for roles in ordnance factories under the Ministry of Defence. The course emphasizes safety and precision in high-risk defense manufacturing environments and aligns with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the Apprentices Act, 1961.

Objectives

• Assemble and align mechanical components for weapon systems and production machinery with high precision.
• Perform maintenance and repair on ordnance factory equipment, including lathes, milling machines, and presses.
• Troubleshoot and overhaul hydraulic and pneumatic systems used in defense manufacturing.
• Adhere to safety, environmental, and BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards)/DRDO regulations in fitter operations.

Duration

12 months (2 weeks basic training, 11 months on-the-job training)

Schedule

The course spans 12 months, combining basic training and on-the-job practical training as per Flexi-MoU guidelines. Each phase focuses on specific skills essential for fitters in ordnance factories. Below is the detailed breakdown:

Weeks 1-2: Basic Training

Introduction to mechanical fitting in ordnance factories, workplace safety, and trade practices. Overview of defense equipment (small arms, artillery, ammunition machinery), materials (high-grade steel, alloys), and precision tools (micrometers, vernier calipers, torque wrenches). Training on personal protective equipment (PPE) and hazard identification in explosive and high-risk environments.

Months 1-3: Mechanical Assembly and Alignment

Assembling weapon components (e.g., rifle bolts, artillery barrels) and production machinery parts (e.g., gears, shafts). Training on alignment techniques using dial indicators, laser alignment tools, and jigs to meet defense tolerances.

Months 4-6: Equipment Maintenance and Repair

Performing preventive maintenance on ordnance factory machinery, including lathes, milling machines, and presses used in ammunition production. Training on dismantling, repairing, and reassembling components, such as bearings, couplings, and drive systems.

Months 7-9: Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems

Troubleshooting and repairing hydraulic and pneumatic systems for presses, forging machines, and weapon testing equipment. Training on hydraulic pumps, valves, and actuators, including seal replacement and pressure calibration.

Months 10-11: Fault Diagnosis and Overhaul

Diagnosing mechanical faults using vibration analysis, wear measurement, and root cause analysis. Training on overhauling critical equipment, such as ammunition presses or weapon assembly lines, and documenting repair procedures per DRDO standards.

Month 12: Final Project and Assessment

Completion of a comprehensive fitter project (e.g., overhauling a weapon assembly line component or repairing a production press) and preparation for joint ITP-DGT assessment.

Assessment Methods

Apprentice performance is evaluated through a combination of practical, theoretical, and participatory components, preparing them for the Certificate of Proficiency:

• Practical Assessments: 50% (assembly, repair, alignment tasks)
• Project Work: 30% (complete equipment overhaul or repair)
• Theoretical Tests: 15% (mechanical principles, safety regulations)
• Attendance and Participation: 5%

Instructor

Industry Expert (designated by ITP, e.g., ordnance factory mechanical engineer or maintenance supervisor)

Language

Available in: English

Status

Published

Additional Notes

Apprentices must be at least 18 years old (due to hazardous environments and explosive materials) and meet the minimum educational qualification (typically 10th grade passed with science and mathematics or equivalent, preferably with an ITI Fitter certificate, as per ITP requirements). The course includes 20-25% basic training and 75-80% on-the-job training, with a stipend as per NAPS guidelines (e.g., Rs. 7700 per month for one-year ITI trade passed apprentices, as per Gazette notification dated 25th September 2019). The government reimburses 25% of the stipend (up to Rs. 1500/month) to the ITP. Successful completion leads to a Certificate of Proficiency, recognized for employment in ordnance factories, defense manufacturing, and related industries. The training emphasizes precision, safety, and compliance with BIS and DRDO standards, addressing the demand for skilled fitters in India’s defense manufacturing sector, which is critical for self-reliance in defense production (e.g., Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives targeting USD 25 billion in defense exports by 2025). For specific ITP curriculum details, contact the Apprenticeship Training Portal (www.apprenticeshipindia.gov.in). This syllabus can be adapted for posting on vocational training websites like https://mmiti.in or https://iti.today, aligning with your previous requests for trade syllabi (e.g., Electrician, Fitter (Integrated Steel Plant), Automotive trades, Crane Operator) and your focus on enhancing MM Private ITI’s offerings in Kasganj. The inclusion of mechanical calculations (e.g., tolerances, gear ratios, stress analysis) aligns with your earlier request for "Workshop Calculation and Science" content, ensuring technical depth suitable for your audience. Note that, based on your mention of Pacific Private ITI on March 22, 2025, which offers the Fitter trade but may lack official NCVT recognition, this syllabus is designed for verified Flexi-MoU programs to ensure credibility for MM Private ITI.