Commissioning & Handover
Commissioning the CHP plant is normally simple. An important point in the case of small-scale packaged CHP is that the packaged unit should have been extensively tested at the factory, thereby reducing the time and risk involved in testing on-site. Nonetheless, a significant amount of testing is still required prior to handover.
For each item or system, the commissioning sequence should be built up from:
- Installation checks to confirm that all items installed are as specified in the drawings.
- Static system checks:
- Flushing and pressure testing of pipe systems.
- Electrical line checks.
- Dynamic running checks of individual equipment/systems:
- Tests of all control and safety devices.
- Generator and switchboard performance and safety trials.
- Tests of all normal and alternative modes of operation.
- Plant performance and reliability trials.
All tests and trials should be planned in advance to determine:
- The purpose of the test or trial.
- The condition of the test or trial, how and by whom.
- The timing of the trial, time of day or night and duration.
- Recording and witnessing arrangements.
A list of defects, if any, should be raised at every stage of the commissioning process. For any defect raised its resolution should be identified by the responsible party. In some cases, correction of a defect is essential before the next stage of the trial can commence. In other instances, the defect can be allowed to remain until a general defect rectification period.
Commissioning will culminate in plant handover. Handover, which may constitute a significant milestone for payment, should be agreed only if accompanied by all the appropriate documentation, for example:
- Plant operation and maintenance manuals.
- Drawings.
- Commissioning records.
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