NESCol is first trainer to deliver energy saving welding technology

February 8, 2023

North East Scotland College is the first ever training provider to deliver training for a unique welding method called Two Step Casing, a type of pipe insulation that is beginning to be adopted by the UK’s construction and maintenance supply chain because of its energy saving properties.

Created by Swedish company Mittel two step casing involves a sleeve which surrounds pipework used primarily in energy pipelines. The sleeve serves to retain the heat within the pipe network so that it can be redistributed to wherever it is needed.

NESCol is being sponsored by the Energy Saving Trust to undertake the first train the trainer session in Sweden and then to deliver both the full course and refresher training to welding operatives in the UK.

Curriculum Manager Ronnie Cowie said: “As one of, if not, the biggest welding college in Scotland we are delighted to take advantage of this opportunity.  Although it is very evident in Sweden and Denmark it’s fair to say that the UK is at the early stages of utilising this technology.

“We are now able to offer the full course and refresher course commercially to the supply chain in Aberdeen or Fraserburgh. Having recently completed the first course for Aberdeen Heat & Power we are keen to spread the word that Two Step Casing training is now available in the UK.”

Pilar Rodriguez, Green Heat Installer Programme Manager at Energy Saving Trust said: “Heat networks are a critical part of the energy infrastructure needed to support Scotland’s decarbonisation of heat in buildings. Supporting the development of skills to support the growth of heat networks is, therefore, crucial to be able to meet net zero by 2045. This course supports the needs of the local contractors but also will support new students coming into the sector creating Scottish-based jobs as well as supporting Scotland’s commitments to tackle climate change.”

Ian Davidson, CEO from Aberdeen Heat & Power said:” Aberdeen Heat and Power are committed to the further expansion of the current heat networks to deliver low cost low carbon heat across the city to aid in the alleviation of fuel poverty in these challenging times.  We fully support this course and believe it will help attract local contractors into the district heating marketplace which would support local employment for the area.  The energy marketplace has suffered over the past year and it is through initiatives such as this that will help support its recovery.”

This course can be funded through the Flexible Development Workforce Fund. For information contact Iain Cocker on 07866 521733 or visit www.nescol.ac.uk/fwdf

Pictured: Craig Beattie and Andrew Lamb from Aberdeen Heat & Power undergoing training with NESCol ‘s Mechanical Maintenance lecturer Declan Sutherland