Early Preparations for Performance Testing

This is the most important phase of a performance test. A malfunctioning meter, a leaking block valve, or a poor laboratory analysis during the performance test can dramatically reduce the reliability of the results and defeat the purpose of the test. This is the time to sort out all potential bottlenecks. The following considerations are important and are based on the author s experience supplemented by Refs. 2, 61, 133, 239, 268 and 429a. 

Prepare a needs list for work required from other departments This should include a detailed list of instruments to be tested and required laboratory analyses. When preparing the needs list, consider the following  

Set a tentative date Attempt to set the time most convenient to the plant production people. Stable operation during the test is essential, and the production personnel can anticipate periods of potential instability best. Contact the laboratory supervisor. A performance test usually means increasing the lab workload, and the lab supervisor must schedule additional personnel. Obtain a commitment from the lab supervisor to complete the analysis by a reasonable date. The longer a sample sits on the shelf, the smaller is the reliability of the analysis because of possible leakage or chemical reaction, and the greater is its chance of being lost. 

Inform all parties involved on the proposed dates and duration of the test. Do not neglect to inform upstream and downstream units and check for potential bottlenecks. 

Become familiar with the control room computer and data logger Collect data on the reliability of these devices, and check to what extent you can use them without interfering with normal op- 

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