The Science Behind Mechanical Insulation
The Mechanical Insulators Labor Management and Cooperative Trust (LMCT) advocates for advancing the Mechanical Insulation industry, including industry education.
Mechanical Insulation is sometimes referred to as the “forgotten technology.” While it is difficult to see Mechanical Insulation work in real-time, you can see the results when calculating the return on investment (ROI) after properly installing this technology.
By adding Mechanical Insulation to your mechanical system, you will witness a drop in energy consumption, energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions – all while lowering overall operating costs.
What is Mechanical Insulation?
Mechanical Insulation is a form of thermal insulation that has many applications. It is mostly used on boilers, HVAC systems and ductwork.
Mechanical insulation’s primary purposes are to reduce energy waste, improve the longevity of mechanical systems and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
How does Mechanical Insulation work?
Mechanical Insulation works by slowing conductive heat flow. This means insulation will prevent heat from flowing away from a system or facility outfitted with insulation.
The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) through the National Mechanical Insulation Committee (NMIC), has developed the Mechanical Insulation Design Guide (MIDG) to provide a comprehensive source of information on the performance, use, testing and standardization of Mechanical Insulation in buildings and industrial facilities.
Find an LMCT-Affiliated Contractor
The LMCT partners with the Insulators Union throughout the U.S. and Canada performing high quality work in the following industries:
• Maintenance and New Construction
• Industrial High Temperature
• Pads and Blankets
• Storage Tanks and Vessels
• Boilers
• Chillers
• Metal Cladding/Weather Barriers
• Commercial Heating and Cooling
• Vapor retarders and barriers
• Asbestos abatement
• Firestop and Smokeseal
• Nuclear Specialized Applications
• Mechanical Insulation Evaluations
• CUI Programs
• Specialized Insulations
Learn more about improving the performance of buildings through Mechanical Insulation practices and standards in this white paper.