In early 2025, the Insulators LMCT was asked to take part in a study on behalf of a regional sports authority group regarding mechanical insulation.
Venue Solutions Group, the owner’s representative, requested the evaluation of a large baseball stadium and a basketball arena to evaluate the mechanical insulation efficiency in each venue. The sports authority group needed expert information concerning the best facility upgrades over the next 20 years. They asked the LMCT to be a part of their team of Subject Matter Experts and engineers to review every part of the facilities and identifying positive improvements for the facilities and the public.
The study also involved collaboration with other crafts to address all concerns and promote cooperation when specific crafts’ technology crossed over into others. Some of the systems inspected included HVAC, plumbing, electrical, food services, entertainment, weatherization, elevators and escalators.
As part of the process, Venue Solutions Group disclosed there were significant opportunities to upgrade the current mechanical insulation systems to reduce energy costs, control condensation, mold and corrosion, as well as improve indoor air quality, process controls and facility life-cycle costs – all while providing an exceptional return on investment.
Our LMCT representatives were surprised to see the potential improvements for other types of systems through more focused upgrades of the existing mechanical insulation systems.
People often overlook the mechanical insulation system beyond the energy efficiency aspect. What they did not account for is the amount of mold that can potentially develop in the insulation. Indoor/outdoor venues are susceptible to weather conditions, including moisture and humidity, which must be addressed in all insulation applications. Mold within the mechanical insulation can lead to unhealthy air quality and potentially pose a health risk.
After the sports authority reviews the entire study, LMCT-affiliated signatory contractors and affiliated members of the Insulators Union will have an opportunity to upgrade the existing mechanical insulation systems. This work will benefit facility managers, owners and the public who use these facilities.
Many of the issues and conditions contained within the mechanical insulation study are indicative of common problems found throughout facilities in North America. Improving the performance of the mechanical insulation systems enhances the performance of other mechanical systems. This means the boilers and chillers will operate more efficiently, cycle less often, use fewer chemicals for peak function, etc. Equipment such as pumps and their associated bearing and impellers will last longer, leading to fewer outages and system failures. This will give work crews time for other preventative maintenance activities, allowing resources to be utilized in a more efficient manner.
It is imperative for facility owners, mechanical engineers and architects to become educated on the function and interrelationship between mechanical insulation and the other systems, equipment and components of a facility. Understanding these interrelationships ensures the ability to manage a facility with optimal functional outcomes and energy efficiencies, contribute to minimal cost expenditures and extend system and facility life cycles.
A review of the mechanical insulation study will help provide actionable items that can be implemented after an inspection of any facility’s mechanical insulation systems.
Mechanical insulation is an excellent investment that provides an exceptional return on investment.
Read the Entertainment Complex Mechanical Insulation Study to learn more about what the LMCT discovered and its recommendations.