vcc.ca
WTEC 1120: Mechanical Systems
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Wind Turbine Technician
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
Students will develop mechanical expertise in turbine drive trains and bearing assemblies. They will identify mechanical components, perform routine and preventive maintenance on drive trains, test bearing assemblies, and diagnose mechanical issues using appropriate tools. Emphasis is placed on selecting appropriate tools, implementing and documenting maintenance activities, and implementing strategies to ensure optimal turbine performance and reduce operational downtime.
Credits
2.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify mechanical components of wind turbine systems.
- Perform basic mechanical maintenance procedures on wind turbine components according to manufacturer specifications.
- Conduct comprehensive inspections of drive systems, identifying wear patterns and potential failures according to industry maintenance standards.
- Test bearing assemblies using appropriate tools and procedures, assessing condition and remaining service life within industry-accepted tolerances.
- Apply mechanical safety procedures, demonstrating full compliance with required safety protocols.
- Diagnose mechanical issues in fault scenarios.
- Create comprehensive maintenance documentation that meets industry standards for completeness, accuracy, and clarity.
- Develop preventive maintenance schedules based on manufacturer specifications and operational data.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 30
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 20
Total Hours: 50
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical lab activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
25 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
25 |
|
|
Lab Work |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
20 |
|
Course topics
- Basic mechanical principles
- Drive systems
- Bearing systems
- Coupling types
- Mechanical safety
- Maintenance procedures
- Inspection techniques
- Documentation methods
- Troubleshooting strategies
- System monitoring
- Quality control
- Tool selection and use
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.