What is a millwright? It’s a common question, particularly given that this profession is relatively uncommon. (There are only about 40,000 millwrights in the U.S.) A millwright is a skilled tradesman. They may also be referred to as an industrial mechanic, machinist, or mechanical fitter. These professionals fulfill a vital role in the industrial services field. Managers of power plants, construction sites, factories, and other production facilities contract with millwrights in order to keep their equipment in good working condition.
What Is a Millwright? (The Short Answer)
Machinery is the heart of any industrial site. A professional millwright is responsible for the set-up, maintenance, repair, and dismantling of industrial machines. They must develop a full understanding of the inner workings of the machinery. The work of these professionals allows the facility to continue running smoothly.
Millwrights are typically contractual workers. A company that offers millwright services, such as Campbell Technologies, may contract with a manufacturing plant or other industrial site on an as-needed basis. Millwrights will work on the site for a matter of days or perhaps weeks to complete the job.
What Is a Millwright? (The In-Depth Answer)
The job of a millwright is a challenging one. These highly skilled workers must be able to comprehend technical instructions and read blueprints with accuracy. Millwrights can do any of the following tasks:
- Assemble and disassemble industrial equipment: Whether the worksite has only recently opened its doors or has been in business for years, it will need new equipment assembled. Millwrights ensure new machines are assembled properly and will function smoothly. When the time has come to retire older machines, millwrights provide disassembly services.
- Move machinery: Industrial equipment require relocation more often than you might think. Manufacturers might need to adjust the layout of the production floor to make room for new equipment, for example. Machinists are responsible for carefully disassembling, moving, and reassembling the equipment.
- Maintain machines: Millwrights are often called upon to perform maintenance duties to ensure a worksite’s equipment stays in good working condition. They may need to align and adjust components, for instance, or to calibrate controls and sensors.
- Diagnose malfunctions: When an industrial worksite’s machinery malfunctions, millwrights are called in to perform diagnostic tests and identify the source of the problem.
- Perform repairs: Millwrights are skilled at repairing highly complex machinery. This may involve removing defective parts and replacing them with new components.
Which Skills Do Millwrights Need?
In order to perform these varied duties, millwrights must be highly skilled and knowledgeable professionals. Although professional millwrights come from all walks of life, they share a set of skills and characteristics in common. These include the following:
- Critical thinking and analytical reasoning: Millwrights must be able to read highly technical blueprints and manuals. They must develop an in-depth understanding of the machinery and controls they work with.
- Equipment skills: Millwrights use a variety of tools and equipment. These include micrometers, laser measuring devices, and welding equipment. They also include large machinery such as cranes, hoists, and forklifts.
- Problem-solving skills: This profession is one that revolves around troubleshooting. Millwrights must know how to think creatively to solve problems as they develop.
Your Source for High-Quality Millwright Services
Campbell Technologies offers professional and reliable millwright services for factories and other industrial sites. Here, safety is always our top priority. Our care and attention to detail are reflected in everything that we do. Connect with Campbell Technologies by calling our headquarters in Tucson at (520) 624-8837 or by emailing [email protected].