When it comes to estimating the cost of mechanical insulation, there are several different software applications to choose from. RapidBid, FastWRAP, MIKE, and the Personnel Protection for Horizontal Piping Calculator are all good options for calculating the costs associated with mechanical insulation. You can also use an online tool like MIKE to calculate the total cost of the project, and the various cost estimating methods available online are explained in this article.
FastWRAP
For contractors looking for a streamlined approach to estimating mechanical insulation projects, FastWRAP is the perfect solution. With an award-winning on-screen digitizer takeoff, this software is easy to install and use. It includes a complete database of 150,000 items, including major manufacturers’ data, industry-standard labor estimates, and customizable specifications. The software’s robust features allow it to handle both large-scale projects and smaller jobs.
You can import takeoff data from a variety of software, including FastDUCT and FastPIPE. The program automatically calculates material costs and labor hours, and allows you to adjust labor and material estimates by section. This feature makes it easy to bid smarter and adapt to different job-site conditions. And, because it separates duct from piping, you can modify labor hours, apply factors, and adjust materials to match your specific industry standards.
Using a estimating program can save you countless hours every year, and it will significantly cut your quoting time. You can also avoid costly extension errors. In addition, you can easily develop a cost estimate by section or job, and create an accurate bill of materials. With the latest software, you can start estimating today! If you want an easy-to-use estimating program, FastEST, Inc., offers several programs for HVAC ductwork, FastDUCT for industrial sheet metal, and FastWRAP for piping insulation. The software is backed by extensive training and support from their staff, making it easy to learn and use.
RapidBid
A mechanical insulation estimating software can cut estimating time in half, avoid costly extension errors, and calculate material and labor costs by section or total job. It can even help you develop an accurate bill of materials. Best of all, it requires only minimal training and can be used by a small number of employees in the field. This program is designed for use by insulation contractors. However, it can benefit larger contractors as well.
It also eliminates the need for paper and stationery. All you need is a computer screen, a mouse, and a keyboard. With RapidBid, you can preview drawings and only show relevant drawings in your bids. Because the software uses only real-time data, you won’t have to manually update your estimates every day. Instead, you’ll receive multiple quotes, which means more opportunities for your business.
The software also includes a complete mechanical insulation take-off system, which runs on a standard personal computer with custom-built insulation-specific software. You can input a scale, a digitizer, or even double-check your takeoff for accuracy. By eliminating these time-consuming steps, RapidBid will help contractors save valuable time. Using RapidBid, you’ll never have to worry about missing an important detail.
The software’s customizable estimating capabilities are an excellent value. It will improve your efficiency by up to 70 percent. As a bonus, it also includes unlimited jobs. You can purchase the software for a PC or a Mac and try it out for yourself! You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the savings you’ll see! And remember to check with your local HVAC contractor to find out which products they recommend and how much they cost.
MIKE
The mechanical insulation contractor’s life is complicated enough without adding the complexities of computerized estimating software. MIKE estimates mechanical insulation costs for a wide variety of projects, including roofs, walls, and floors. With a variety of options for modifying labor and material estimates, MIKE provides the ultimate in flexibility and convenience. With its flexible estimating features, you can adjust each estimate according to your needs, and the software offers features that allow you to modify the material breakdown by section or floor, as well as the total project requirements. It also provides a comprehensive bill of materials that makes estimating alternates simple and easy.
The innovative design of MIKE minimizes takeoff time and increases accuracy of bids. The system also speeds up the development of bill of materials and labor cost reports. It also frees up time for sales calls and job supervision. And, it also provides detailed and reliable material/labor cost reports. With all these features, you will have more time to oversee and develop sales opportunities. In short, the system will increase your profitability. MIKE estimates mechanical insulation efficiently.
Experience in mechanical insulation contracting is necessary to land the right position. Ideally, you will have experience with MIKE or Bluebeam estimating. Experience as a project manager or estimator is desirable, as is a minimum of five years’ experience in multi-craft trades. A good knowledge of construction drawings and advanced math skills are essential for success. The salary is competitive and the benefits package is great. This position offers health benefits, vacation time, and 401K.
Personnel Protection for Horizontal Piping Calculator
The process of estimating the thickness of insulated horizontal piping requires an understanding of the thermal conductivity and emissivity of the piping materials. Some of the parameters that must be considered in estimating the thickness of insulated horizontal piping include pipe diameter, emissivity, operating temperature, and thermal conductivity. A new parameter called surface emissivity is emerging that can be used in estimating the insulation required for a pipe. It is estimated that 65% of total radiation is from the surface of the pipe. The corresponding required insulation thickness increases with pipe diameter and surface emissivity. Adaptive revisions of specifications are suggested.
GEM
GEM, or GEM Inc., is a manufacturer of mechanical insulation products and services that reduces energy costs, maintains surface temperature, prevents condensation, and protects building occupants from noise and fire. These products can be used in a variety of projects, including new construction, retrofits, and ongoing building maintenance. The company’s services can be tailored to the specific needs of any project. GEM is a Rudolph Libbe Group company.
Mechanical insulation estimating using GEM uses a proprietary software program that comes loaded with productivity factors. Users can easily tailor their labor and material estimates to their specific situation by adding or removing sections. This makes it possible to bid more intelligently and play with material prices and factors to compensate for difficult job-site situations. GEM has been in the industry for more than 30 years, and its reputation for accuracy and reliability is unparalleled.
In one example, a user might conduct a test on the resistance of a metal panel, but would otherwise use a conventional voltage meter to calculate insulation values. To test a piece of metal, the device uses a voltage of about 5 volts. The device is equipped with a current-limiting resistor, which keeps the voltage from passing through the operator. The high voltage generator, meanwhile, is connected to a battery and a special contact pad. The operator then touches the conductive pad with his finger. A signal of more than 100 megohms will trigger the generator to turn on.
Current diamond testers measure electrical conductivity by applying up to 1000V indiscriminately to the gem. This can be counterproductive as the electrical current applied to the gem is far greater than its resistance to electricity. Moreover, the electrical resistance of gems can vary widely and varying results can make it impossible to distinguish between insulators and weak conductors. In the past, only a few testers had the sensitivity to accurately differentiate between the two.