Painter-Insulator

Nearly every component or structural element aboard ship requires painting or insulating. This is why the apprentice painter-insulator is schooled in the selection, fabrication and installation of various insulating materials as well as the use and proper application of a wide variety of marine coating systems. Paints protect the steel and other surfaces from rust and corrosion, protect the underwater portion from the attachment of marine life and enhance the general appearance of the ship. The apprentice prepares the surface, masks unpainted areas, selects the proper methods of application, provides suitable curing conditions and inspects the finished surface. The student is also taught to interpret painting schedules, calculate the surface areas, estimate the amount of paint required, test the grade, viscosity and fineness of a paint and perform sandblasting operations. Insulation assures efficient operation of equipment, minimizes energy loss, reduces or eliminates noise transmission and prevents injury. Insulation work ranges from the fabrication and manufacturing of various kinds of insulating materials to selection, preparation and actual installation aboard ship. The apprentice cuts and forms insulation materials, makes molded plastic forms, laminates fiberglass cloth and mixes bonding materials such as cement, epoxies and resins. An apprentice painter-insulator will apply these skills through a variety of work experiences encompassing product lines such as submarines, aircraft carriers and commercial ship construction and repair.