TABLE OF CONTENTS Now that the instruments and control systems are installed and operating, the responsibility reverts to maintenance for keeping the control equipment in good working condition and for ensuring that the operation of these systems meets the design intent. In addition, keep in mind that not only is the maintenance to be done correctly but also that any alterations must comply with all established codes, such as the electrical code in effect at the site.
It is imperative to underline that the content of this chapter is only a memory jogger and should not be taken "as is" because statutory, technical, and corporate needs vary from one site to the other. Post-installation and maintenance requirements vary with plant needs and specifics.
Maintenance activities in general, and in particular for instruments and control systems, consist of a large portion of human interrelations and teamwork. The two main activities of the maintenance team are
plant improvements and modifications (generally a pre-planned activity) and
plant maintenance (corrective and preventive types).
Maintenance is typically done by plant personnel; however, the help of outside contractors is sometimes needed. In such cases, contract maintenance programs with outside contractors are generally implemented.
Maintenance must at all times be kept in the designer's mind when instruments and control systems are being specified and designed. Items that are inaccessible, badly designed, or difficult to calibrate will be poorly maintained, eventually deteriorate, adversely affect process performance, and may end up in the garbage a waste of time and money and a...
