Insulation Workers, Mechanical
Insulation workers (mechanical) apply insulating materials to pipes or ductwork, or other mechanical systems in order to help control and maintain temperature.
Mechanical insulation workers, also known as insulators, install, repair or replace material to insulate mechanical systems or building structures. Their work helps control and maintain the desired temperature in and around key systems, pipes and ducts.
Duties in an insulator job include measuring and cutting insulation, clearing obstructions to fit insulation, determining the materials required for jobs, installing protection around insulation, repairing industrial equipment, reading blueprints, and selecting appropriate insulation.
One can take up subjects like math, mechanical drawing and science in high school to be eligible for insulator jobs. Insulators mostly learn their trade on the job in an apprenticeship or internship. Mechanical insulators should understand important technical instructions. Some may choose to pursue relevant licences or certifications needed to work as inspectors or in audits.
Employers of insulators include construction, building, energy and repair services companies. Demand for mechanical insulators is expected to grow in pursuit of energy efficiency. One may advance their career to the position of superintendent or supervisor or choose to start their own insulation services company. To succeed as an insulator, one must have coordination, monitoring and time management skills. Mechanical skills, physical stamina and dexterity are also necessary.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- ITI Course Insulation
Tasks
- Measure and cut insulation for covering surfaces, using tape measures, handsaws, knives, and scissors.
- Fit insulation around obstructions, and shape insulating materials and protective coverings as required.
- Determine the amounts and types of insulation needed, and methods of installation, based on factors such as location, surface shape, and equipment use.
- Install sheet metal around insulated pipes with screws to protect the insulation from weather conditions or physical damage.
- Apply, remove, and repair insulation on industrial equipment, pipes, ductwork, or other mechanical systems such as heat exchangers, tanks, and vessels, to help control noise and maintain temperatures.
- Select appropriate insulation, such as fiberglass, Styrofoam, or cork, based on the heat retaining or excluding characteristics of the material.
- Read blueprints and specifications to determine job requirements.
- Cover, seal, or finish insulated surfaces or access holes with plastic covers, canvas strips, sealants, tape, cement, or asphalt mastic.
- Prepare surfaces for insulation application by brushing or spreading on adhesives, cement, or asphalt, or by attaching metal pins to surfaces.
- Remove or seal off old asbestos insulation, following safety procedures.
Progression Routes
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