Description

Steamfitters and pipefitters lay out, assemble, fabricate, maintain, troubleshoot and repair piping systems carrying water, steam, chemicals and fuel in heating, cooling, lubricating and other process piping systems. Sprinkler system installers fabricate, install, test, maintain and repair water, foam, carbon dioxide and dry chemical sprinkler systems in buildings for fire protection purposes. Steamfitters, pipefitters and sprinkler system installers are employed in maintenance departments of factories, plants and similar establishments, and by pipefitting and sprinkler system contractors, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

Job Titles

• Maintenance pipefitter
• Pipefitter
• Ship pipefitter
• Steamfitter

Main Duties

• Read and interpret drawings, blueprints and specifications to determine layout requirements
• Cut openings for pipe in walls, floors and ceilings using hand or power tools or machines
• Select type and size of pipe required
• Measure, cut, thread and bend pipe to required shape using hand and power tools
• Weld, braze, cement, solder and thread joints to join pipes and fabricate sections of piping system
• Install supports, valves, piping and control systems
• Test system for leaks using testing equipment
• Clean and maintain pipe units and fittings and flush system
• Remove and replace worn components and reactivate system
• May prepare cost estimates for clients.

Workplaces

• Maintenance departments of factories, plants and similar establishments
• Pipefitting contractors
• Self-employed

Skills

• Repairing
• Setting Up
• Evaluation
• Numeracy
• Operation and Control

Abilities

• Gross Body Equilibrium
• Trunk Strength
• Depth Perception
• Dynamic Strength
• Gross Body Coordination

Personal Attributes

• Adaptability
• Analytical Thinking
• Attention to Detail
• Collaboration
• Independence

Similar Occupations

• Plumbers (72300)
• Gas fitters (72302)
• Residential and commercial installers and servicers (73200)

Source: OaSIS