PREFACE

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Who are insulators and what part do they play in construction? This Preface answers those questions.

" Heat and frost insulators are responsible for the installation and maintenance of insulation systems, for the conservation of energy and the control of the environment in buildings and premises requiring temperature control, heat transfer, sound barriers, fire protection and asbestos abatement.”1 Their work is performed on industrial, commercial, and institutional sites where they can be seen applying insulation materials to plumbing, heating, cooling and refrigeration systems, piping equipment and pressure vessels. Their work also helps to save lives and prevent injuries.

The Thermal Insulation Association of Canada provides a more detailed definition of insulation, stating “insulations are those materials or combinations of materials which retard the flow of heat energy by performing one of more of the following functions:

• Conserve energy by reducing heat loss or gain;

• Control surface temperatures for personnel protection and comfort;

• Facilitate temperature control of processes;

• Prevent vapor flow and water condensation on cold surfaces;

• Increase operating efficiency of heating/ventilating/cooling, plumbing, steam, process and power systems found in commercial and industrial installations;

• Prevent damage to equipment from exposure to fire or corrosive atmospheres;

• Assist mechanical systems in meeting criteria in food and cosmetic plants;

• Reduce emissions of pollutants to the atmosphere.”

The current interest in the environment and energy saving has elevated the work performed by insulators from a “nice to have” to a “need to have” on both old and new structures. The Insulator craftsperson must be able to apply newer, more sophisticated materials, ensuring high quality insulation properties to maximize energy efficiencies. Technology has enabled the industry to progress from the installation of hazardous materials such as asbestos to safer and more effective materials including plastics, laminates, stainless steel, aluminum, galvanized steel and coated steel. These new materials have necessitated a change in the skills required to apply and maintain insulation. In addition, Insulators have had to develop knowledge of the make-up and behaviour of these new materials. Although some fabrication is now done off-site, today’s Insulator must have the skills to layout and fabricate parts onsite.

Insulators can often be found applying their craft while working in extreme temperatures, in confined spaces or at significant heights, on very large vessels or smaller intricate piping systems. They are usually one of the last trades utilized on major projects, providing critical finishing to the structures.