2024 Nov-Dec RETA Breeze

to ensure they do not compromise your design objectives and considerations and most importantly, inspect what you expect before, during and after installa tion. Step 3: Continually inspect the finished insulation system for damage of any kind. This can be accomplished by engaging everyone to observe and timely report potential problem areas during walk arounds throughout normal operations and establishing a formal routine inspection program. Sounds expensive, but it is not when you combine the two approaches, especially when you respect the value of identifying problem areas sooner than later. Step 4: Maintain the insulation system timely and properly. Don’t accept excuses to delay corrective actions. It is so easy to take insulation systems for granted and talk yourself into believing that delaying action for a few weeks is acceptable. Well, weeks turn into months and eventually years and then you could be facing some major problems beyond that of the insulation system. The insulation system

failure is normally blamed for the corrosion that has incurred, operational cost increases, underperforming equipment, capital investment required, etc. when in most cases it comes back to taking the insulation systems for granted and delayed or improper insulation system maintenance. While this may sound like common sense you may, or may not, be surprised about the lack of respect mechanical insulation systems are given throughout the design and operational processes. Designing, installing and maintaining a successful mechanical insulation system, especially for below ambient applications, requires a conscious and continual effort. It is not too late to make and execute the New Year’s resolution – you will like the results. This article is provided by the National Insulation Association (NIA) as a RETA member service. Please visit www. insulation.org for more information related to all aspects of mechanical insulation.

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