A pipe fitter installs and maintains high pressure mechanical piping systems used for handling liquids and gases in various industries. They must have knowledge of engineering, mathematics, and metal alloys. Pipefitters assemble pipes and fittings using various methods and are employed in industries such as utilities, steel mills, and chemical process plants.
A pipe fitter is a worker responsible for installing and maintaining high pressure mechanical piping systems. These systems are typically used for handling liquids and gases in buildings, marine vessels, aircraft, and industrial process plants. A pipe fitter knows the theory, application and installation of complex piping systems and is able to read and follow detailed blueprints. Pipefitters are also responsible for installing and maintaining the automated control devices used in various types of mechanical piping assemblies. A pipe installer is sometimes referred to as a steam installer to avoid being confused with a plumber.
The high pressures and extreme temperatures used in industrial and commercial piping systems require precision engineering and construction processes. To successfully construct these highly complex systems, a pipe-maker must have a good working knowledge of engineering and mathematics. Pipefitters are also educated about the various types of metal alloys and their applications for different pressures, temperatures and substances. A pipe fitter usually has completed several years of education and training before being employed professionally.
Pipefitters are typically used to assemble pipes and fittings by methods such as brazing, welding, brazing, carburizing and threading. In addition to assembling the pipes, a pipe fitter must also attach them to holders and hangers. Pipefitters build piping systems used for boilers, refrigeration, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, and plumbing. They also assemble and maintain piping systems used in chemical and food processing plants.
Those workers pursuing a career in pipe fitting must be highly skilled in the arrangement, cutting, threading, and bending of metals such as stainless steel, carbon steel, and various types of alloys used in mechanical pipe assemblies. They must also be able to read and understand the diagrams, shop drawings and blueprints of large industrial high pressure piping systems used in many different applications. These professionals receive extensive training in the use of all types of welding, soldering and cutting tools and techniques prior to employment. Pipefitters are also skilled in the installation, troubleshooting, and repair of gas lines and valves used in medical facilities.
Paper mills, utilities, steel mills and shipbuilding facilities typically employ pipefitters. Some pipefitters are employed by mechanical engineering companies which are contracted out by various types of industries. Other pipefitters may work for chemical process plants, oil and gas refineries, and nuclear, coal-fired, or hydroelectric power generation plants. Pipefitters are sometimes employed in facilities such as distilleries, breweries, pharmaceutical companies and health care centres.
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