Loop Checking
what is mean by loop checking?
Loop Checking means, First we want to check the continuity of cable. Then whether 24 V DC or 4 - 20 mA DC is coming from DCS or JB want to check. That is called loop Checking. loop checking means ,after installation of instruments we must check full loop(instrument-junction box-control room) to ensure that whether the instruments are working properly or not, and whether is it passing the signal or not,whether is it receiving the signal or not. before we start the plant we need to check loop.. during the loop check we give some known input and check the corresponding output at other side(control room)..if the output is corresponding to input, the loop is ok..if not means, something fault inbetween the loop. for example.if you want to check ON/OFF control valve,during the loop check,when you give 24v dc from control room ,the valve must open fully, and when you give 0v dc the valve must close.
Loop Check Task
Task 1: Obtain documents pertaining to the process loop in order to understand all devices and their intended functions.
Knowledge of:
ISA symbol and terminology as per ISA Standards 5.1 The function of each loop component ISA loop diagrams as per ISA standards Loop checking procedures
Skill in:
Interpreting P&ID symbols Interpreting loop diagrams Following all appropriate procedures
Loop Check Task
Task 2: Inspect the loop components through visual observation in order to ensure that the components are correctly installed.
Knowledge of:
Mechanical & electrical fundamentals ISA loop diagrams as per ISA standards Loop components and operations through review of data sheets
Skill in:
Interpreting loop diagrams Interpreting P&IDs Following all appropriate procedures Interconnecting loop components
Loop Check Task
Task 3: Verify that appropriate utilities are available and operational through visual inspection in order to perform the loop check.
Knowledge of:
Physical sciences and mathematics DC & AC circuits Mechanical and electrical fundamentals
Skill in:
Interpreting mechanical and electrical drawings Interpreting P&IDs Using test/measurement equipment
Loop Check Task
Task 4: Isolate the process loop from the system by following established site procedures in order to perform the loop check in a safe manner.
Knowledge of:
Site safety procedures Site loop check procedures Loop diagrams P&IDs
Skill in:
Following all appropriate procedures Using loop diagrams Interpreting P&IDs
Loop Check Task
Task 5: Simulate a change in the measured variable in order to verify proper loop performance.
Knowledge of:
Basic physical properties of matter Fundamentals of electricity Function of each loop component Basic temperature, pressure, flow, and level properties
Skill in:
Using test equipment Interpreting loop diagrams Interpreting P&IDs Using test equipment Using hand tools
Loop Check Task
Task 6: Make necessary corrections in order to bring loop performance within specifications. Knowledge of:
Basic physical properties of matter Fundamentals of electricity Function of each loop component Basic temperature, pressure, flow, and level properties
Skill in:
Using test equipment Interpreting specification sheets Interpreting P&IDs Using test equipment Using hand tools Interpreting loop diagrams
Loop Check Task
Task 7: Complete all documentation as required in order to update all loop records. Knowledge of: All appropriate site documentation All appropriate site procedures ISA loop diagrams and ISA loop standards Skill in: Using drafting standards Technical writing