The refractory industry has experienced many changes during the past 40 years following advancements in industrial processes and the conversion from solid to liquid and gaseous fuels. These changes have resulted in a reduction in the use of refractory materials and subsequent drop in skilled labour force, which meant the number of apprenticeships fell considerably. As a result of this, post craft training courses waned and courses leading to City and Guilds Certificate in Furnace Bricklaying lapsed – the long established booklet 608 (Furnace Brickwork) ceased to be available.
It became apparent in 1974 in the UK that appropriate steps must be taken to re-establish craft training courses and to offer residential and in-company technological courses on the subject of “REFRACTORIES ENGINEERING”. This was followed by a five-day residential course on the subject of “GENERAL REFRACTORIES ENGINEERING” which took place in 1978. The above annual six-week course took place on six occasions, but the course had been held, more often than not, twice a year ever since and continues to attract delegates from all over the world. Unfortunately, in-company courses – tailored to suit specific training needs - did not materialize until 1986.
The pace of technology change in the industry today demands a highly skilled and educated workforce. Because of this and also the anomalous nature of the industry, BRITS-Online recognised the need for a comprehensive course of study, which could not be provided on a short residential course. It was also recognised that an OPEN LEARNING approach would meet the varied needs, requirements and circumstances of individuals working in a geographically-dispersed industry. After careful consideration, BRITS-Online, agreed to launch an Online Learning Service - available internationally - leading to the award of the 'ADVANCED CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCE' in General Refractories Engineering.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The course was established in 1981 by M G H Fox. George Henry Fox is a retired Senior Lecturer and a Past president of the Guild of Bricklayers. He is the author of the following;
- International Distance Learning Course leading to the award of the Advanced Certificate of Competence in ‘General Refractories Engineering’
- Bonding of Furnace & Civil Engineering Brickwork
- Inspection of Refractory Installations as Work Proceeds
His achievements over the years and lectures both in the UK and Overseas have earned him an international reputation.
DISCLAIMER
The information and guidance given in this course are, to the best of the author’s knowledge, correct and accurate at the time of publication. Any representations and opinions expressed by course tutors during this course are their own and not those of BRITS-Online itself. The contents of learning material prepared by appointed consultants are their own and not those of BRITS-Online. BRITS-Online cannot accept any liability (including that for negligence) for any losses resulting from such representation, opinions and learning material.
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