Commissioning

Equipment Checkout includes verification that the equipment is fully connected electrically and mechanically and that it can be operated by the control system. Representatives of the electrical contractor, mechanical contractor (if applicable) and a representative of the owner should be present to verify proper operation of the equipment. Equipment checkout tasks include:

• Motor rotation checks
• Valve operation
• Control device operation

System Commissioning includes verification that start-up sequences, interlocking, and shut down sequences are working correctly. Systems will also be dry run and flushed of any foreign materials. Representatives of the electrical contractor, mechanical contractor (if applicable) and a representative of the owner should be present to verify proper operation of the equipment.

Process startup begins once all equipment has been checked out and commissioned. This includes assisting plant operators in initial production, monitoring the control system operation, fine-tuning operations, monitoring alarm conditions, verifying data collection, and recording changes to allow for accurate documentation. 
SIGMA recommends that the owner be responsible for scheduling and coordinating the process startup portion of the project.