When managing project specifications, mechanical insulation materials are often listed not by their common names or product types, but by intricate ASTM, government, and/or marine specifications. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals unfamiliar with these standards organizations, making it difficult to discern which specific insulation material is being referenced.

The NIA Guide to Insulation Product Specifications (GTIPS) provides a useful solution. This comprehensive document compiles current ASTM, U.S. federal, and military specifications pertinent to the mechanical insulation industry. More importantly, it clearly lists the companies that manufacture products conforming to each of these sources. As a centralized resource for commonly used specifications, GTIPS helps newcomers to the industry—and even seasoned professionals—more readily understand and identify the materials referenced within complex project specifications.

The guide is reviewed quarterly by NIA’s Technical Information Committee, which is recognized as an impartial and respected technical authority in the industry.

Who Can Benefit from Using GTIPS?

The guide is an incredibly helpful resource for a wide range of professionals in the
insulation industry, including:

• Engineers,
• Facility owners and users,
• Insulation contractors,
• Purchasing and sourcing personnel, and
• Specifiers.

Utilizing GTIPS

GTIPS is organized to facilitate quick and easy reference. It provides:

• Standard specifications from different organizations, including ASTM;
• A brief description of the material(s) covered by each specification;
• Subcategories (e.g., types) of a specification, if any exist; and
• A list of manufacturers in North America that produce materials conforming to those specific standards and subcategories—a crucial element for those seeking to select, procure, or use the specified materials.

Conclusion

NIA’s GTIPS is a comprehensive document that compiles current ASTM, U.S. federal, and military specifications pertinent to the mechanical insulation industry. By understanding its purpose, knowing how to use it effectively, and being aware of where to find it on the NIA website, users will be able to work more efficiently and make more informed project decisions.

For further information about NIA’s GTIPS or other resources, please visit www.insulation.org or www.niaeducationcenter.org, or reach out to training@insulation.org.