MILLWRIGHTS TRADES
Millwrights, sometimes referred to as Industrial Mechanics, keep operations operating. They are mechanics for any machines that aren’t on four wheels. They install, maintain, troubleshoot, overhaul, and repair stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment.
Millwrights tinker. They turn. They monitor. They fix. They install, repair, or overhaul machinery and equipment in manufacturing, processing, and production facilities or on construction sites. This can include working on a vast variety of systems including mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, fuel, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust with components that include pumps, fans, motors, conveyors, presses, and generators.
Regardless of what system or component they are working on, they are always focused on pinpointing problems before they start and keeping facilities operating. They provide mechanical expertise for new construction and repairs within the plant according to safety, quality, and trade standards and guidelines.
Millwrights get things running and fix anything that’s broken. For example, starting up compressors may be a big part of the job during the commissioning of a plant or compressor station. They might “slow-roll” the compressors (start out at 10 to 15 per cent of the regular speed), listening for “knocks” and then conduct vibration analyses and other diagnostic activities to ensure the equipment is starting up properly. If things don’t sound or look right, they’ll use their experience and investigative skills to find out the root cause of a problem.
Millwrights are a whiz at mechanics and mathematics and thrive on the challenge of troubleshooting. They’re able to follow procedures closely when adjusting machinery or installing new equipment but are also adaptable to change. They also bring good eye hand coordination, strength, agility and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
In partnership with: Millwrights Local 1460 Alberta
