What I Do: Part 2 - - - Installation and Commissioning

Site prep, FAT, Shipping, Rigging, Installation and Commissioning

While the machines are being manufactured, I start preparing the site. There are always many working parts to interface with what is existing, and what will be provided by the manufacturer(s). I build parts lists and can even help source all the necessary items. 

Now that the machinery is finalized, our utility loads are as well. Using the equipment drawings and spec sheets, I can then work with the utility contractors to place each connection site precisely with the correct connections and sized correctly.

Once the machines become close to completion it is time to plan for an onsite FAT (factory acceptance testing). During FAT the client and I travel to the location of the manufacturer to verify functionality and accuracy of the machines ordered. Once any changes are made the machinery is crated for shipment.

Then I can plan the shipping and rigging. If the job is too great or the machinery to move the equipment is simply not available, we can hire a rigging company.

Installation goals are safety, cGMP standards, quality, and then efficiency in order of importance. For installation, I can guide the client’s onsite team. Having the client’s technician involved in the installation provides a unique training opportunity and I always suggest this. Installation can take days to weeks. 

In commissioning we start up each machine one by one and insure reliability with I/O testing. For example, In a beverage environment we run water in place of expensive product to work out any kinks and strive for a consistent operation before the first run of product.