How We Work
Design and Specify
Our involvement begins when we first tender for a job. After validating the initial user designs in the User Requirements Specification, we can give a quotation for the work required.
Once we have secured an order, we work closely with the customer to firm up the design and write the Functional Design Specification (FDS). This normally includes items such as network design, input/output schedules, HMI & SCADA designs, standards and detailed descriptions of plant control.
With our experience of various technologies and manufacturers we can assist with decisions regarding suppliers and the pros and cons of different control strategies and solutions. Using our contacts we can also assist with price negotiation if required.
Program and Test
Once the Functional Design Specification (FDS) is approved, programming and testing can begin. A Test Schedule will be produced from the FDS and this will be used later for customer acceptance testing. Programming and testing work will then be carried out for each part of the solution e.g. PLC and HMI.
When the system meets the specification as laid out in the FDS, then it will be subject to Final Acceptance Testing (FAT) with the customer. This acceptance testing may be carried out at the panel manufacturer’s, the customer’s site or elsewhere as appropriate. When any issues from the FAT are resolved and the system is signed off, then the control system is ready to go to site.
Commission and Support
After successful acceptance testing, the next step is to test the software on site. Commissioning involves going to site, setting up the control system and running tests in situ. Any problems must be resolved at this stage.
After commissioning is complete we can then provide site support. This stage may also include training, if required. We can produce training/operator manuals before commissioning and then run course(s) after commissioning is complete. Training courses can be targeted at operators, managers or maintenance staff as appropriate.
In addition we can also carry out trouble shooting of existing control systems implemented by third parties.