National
| Median wages (2008) |
$17.95 hourly, $37,340 annual |
| Employment (2006) |
28,000 employees |
| Projected growth (2006-2016) |
Average (7% to 13%)
|
| Projected need (2006-2016) |
9,000 additional employees |
47-2132.00 - Insulation Workers, Mechanical
Apply insulating materials to pipes or ductwork, or other mechanical systems in order to help control and maintain temperature.
Sample of reported job titles:
Insulator, Mechanical Insulator, Insulation Mechanic, Industrial Insulator, Insulation Helper, Insulation Worker, Mechanic Insulator, Commercial Insulator, Heat and Frost Insulator, Insulation Installer
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 in order 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.
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Tools & Technology
Tools used in this occupation:
| Filtering machinery — Air filtering devices; Filtered vacuum cleaners |
| Hazardous material protective apparel — Hooded protective suits; Protective suits |
| Metal cutters — Sheet metal cutters |
| Power saws — Reciprocating saws |
| Sewing machines — Industrial sewing machines |
| Shears — Scissors |
| Staple guns — Hammer staplers; Pneumatic staplers; Stapling guns |
| Utility knives — Batt knives; Knives |
Technology used in this occupation:
| Analytical or scientific software — North American Insulation Manufacturers Association NAIMA 3E Plus |
| Project management software — CMSN FieldPAK; Comput-Ability MIKE 2000; Turtle Creek Software BidMagic Insulation Estimating |
