Grinder (Ordnance Factory) Apprenticeship Course Syllabus

Course Title

Grinder (Ordnance Factory) Apprenticeship Course

Course Code

FMOGOR101

Description

This course, under the Flexible Memorandum of Understanding (Flexi-MoU) Scheme within the Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS), provides specialized training for grinders in ordnance factories. It focuses on precision grinding, surface finishing, and machining of components for weapon systems (e.g., rifle barrels, artillery parts) and ammunition production tooling. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience using surface grinders, cylindrical grinders, and precision measuring tools, 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

• Perform precision grinding on weapon components and production tooling to meet tight tolerances.
• Maintain and set up grinding machines, including surface and cylindrical grinders, for optimal performance.
• Inspect ground components using precision measuring tools to ensure compliance with defense specifications.
• Adhere to safety, environmental, and BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards)/DRDO regulations in grinding 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 grinders in ordnance factories. Below is the detailed breakdown:

Weeks 1-2: Basic Training

Introduction to grinding operations in ordnance factories, workplace safety, and trade practices. Overview of defense components (weapon parts, ammunition tooling), materials (high-grade steel, alloys), and grinding machines (surface, cylindrical, tool grinders). Training on personal protective equipment (PPE) and hazard identification in explosive and high-risk environments.

Months 1-3: Surface Grinding Techniques

Operating surface grinders to finish flat surfaces on weapon components (e.g., firing pins, breech blocks) and tooling. Training on wheel selection, dressing, and achieving surface finishes within microns.

Months 4-6: Cylindrical and Tool Grinding

Using cylindrical grinders for external and internal grinding of components like artillery barrels and shafts. Training on tool grinding for sharpening cutting tools used in ammunition production.

Months 7-9: Machine Setup and Maintenance

Setting up grinding machines, including workholding devices (chucks, centers) and coolant systems. Training on preventive maintenance, wheel balancing, and troubleshooting machine faults.

Months 10-11: Precision Measurement and Quality Control

Inspecting ground components using micrometers, profilometers, and CMM (coordinate measuring machines). Training on quality control processes to meet DRDO and BIS tolerances, including documentation of inspection reports.

Month 12: Final Project and Assessment

Completion of a comprehensive grinding project (e.g., grinding a rifle barrel to specified tolerances or finishing a set of ammunition tooling) 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% (grinding tasks, machine setup)
• Project Work: 30% (complete component grinding and finishing)
• Theoretical Tests: 15% (grinding principles, safety regulations)
• Attendance and Participation: 5%

Instructor

Industry Expert (designated by ITP, e.g., ordnance factory machining supervisor or quality control engineer)

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 Machinist/Grinder 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 grinders in India’s defense manufacturing sector, 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), Fitter (OF), Automotive trades) and your focus on enhancing MM Private ITI’s offerings in Kasganj. The inclusion of calculations for grinding parameters (e.g., wheel speed, feed rate, depth of cut) 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.