Inspection method · FUNC
Functional and performance testing
Functional tests prove that equipment does what it should; performance tests prove how well. Both need a clear procedure and calibrated instruments.
01How it works
Functional tests verify operating sequences, controls, interlocks, alarms and safety functions, usually step by step from a test procedure. Performance tests measure quantitative output against guaranteed values: flow and head for pumps, capacity and speed for machines, power and efficiency for drives, vibration and noise levels.
Instrument accuracy, test conditions and correction to rated conditions are defined in the test procedure or the product test standard.
02Typical industrial applications
- Factory acceptance tests
- Pumps and compressors
- Machinery and production lines
- Electrical and control systems
- Hydraulic units
- Site acceptance tests
03Benefits and what it detects
- Proves function before delivery
- Verifies guaranteed performance
- Finds integration problems early
- Creates baseline data for operation
04Limitations
- Factory conditions differ from site
- Some tests require site utilities or process media
- Instrument accuracy limits conclusions
- Long duration tests are costly
05Specifying and reviewing the method
Specify tests, procedure approval, instruments and their accuracy, acceptance tolerances and duration. Reference product test standards where they exist, for example ISO 9906 for pump hydraulic performance.
Other references: ISO 9906, ISO 10816 / ISO 20816 (vibration), ISO 3744 (sound power)