Furnace Builder
ちくろこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Architectural technicians who construct and repair refractory linings on the inner walls of high-temperature furnaces and kilns using refractory bricks, refractory mortar, and other refractory materials.
Description
Furnace builders are craftsmen and technicians who construct and repair refractories inside high-temperature facilities such as steel mills, chemical plants, and ceramic kilns. They stack refractory bricks, apply refractory mortar and castables, and finish the joints based on specification drawings. Since work is performed in high-temperature and dusty environments, dust control, temperature management, and safety management are important. On-site, they use tools such as hammers, trowels, and grinders, install temporary scaffolding, mix mortar, and employ dry and wet lining techniques to perform construction that accommodates the thermal expansion characteristics of the furnace.
Future Outlook
With the renewal and energy-saving upgrades of steel mills and chemical plants, the performance of furnace linings is advancing, so demand for personnel with expertise in refractory materials and construction techniques is expected to remain stable.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Project Site Residency / Shift Night Work / Team Work
Career Path
Apprentice Furnace Builder → Furnace Builder → Supervisor/Site Foreman → Construction Management Technician → Freelance Craftsman
Required Skills
Blueprint Reading / Dust and Heat Management / Lining Construction Technology / Refractory Bricklaying / Refractory Mortar Mixing / Scaffolding Installation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because joints and dimensions must be constructed accurately. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | High physical strength is required to handle heavy refractory bricks and materials. |
| Stress Tolerance | Due to frequent work in high-temperature environments, heavy labor, and dusty conditions. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because large-scale facilities must be constructed in collaboration with multiple trades and teams. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Since work is performed based on specified designs and drawings, creative thinking is relatively minimal. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Complex calculations are minimal, limited to simple numerical management such as mixing ratios. |
Related Qualifications
- Crane Operator
- Forklift Operation Skills Training
- Slinging Skills Training
Aliases
- Refractory Worker
Related Jobs
- Bricklayer
- Insulation Worker
- Mortar Worker
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