Commissioning vs. Startup — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 2, 2024
Commissioning involves testing and adjusting mechanical systems to meet design specifications, while startup is the initial operation phase of these systems.
Difference Between Commissioning and Startup
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Commissioning is a detailed process that includes the testing, adjusting, and verifying of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to ensure they meet the specified design intentions and the building owner’s operational needs. On the other hand, startup refers to the initial phase where these systems are turned on and operated for the first time, focusing on ensuring that they function according to their basic operational requirements.
During commissioning, a series of planned, documented tests are conducted to demonstrate and ensure that all systems and components perform interactively according to the design intent and the building’s operational requirements. Whereas startup might involve basic testing, its primary goal is to establish that the system can operate without immediate faults, often conducted by the equipment installer or manufacturer.
Commissioning is a comprehensive process that can span from the pre-design phase through construction and into the operation and maintenance of a building. It includes functional testing, system documentation, and operator training. Startup, however, is typically a one-time event that marks the transition from installation or construction to operation.
While commissioning ensures that building systems are energy efficient, safe, and will be properly maintained for the lifespan of the building, startup is primarily concerned with the initial activation of systems. The startup process might identify immediate operational issues, but it does not typically ensure long-term efficiency or maintenance strategies.
In some contexts, commissioning might follow the startup phase, especially in complex installations where systems need to be brought online to undergo more thorough testing and adjustments. This means that while startup is a critical step towards making a system operational, commissioning ensures that it meets all performance criteria over time.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
Testing and adjusting systems to meet design specs.
Initial operation phase of systems.
Focus
Ensuring systems meet design and operational needs.
Establishing basic operational functionality.
Scope
Comprehensive, spans multiple project phases.
Typically a one-time event.
Goals
Energy efficiency, safety, long-term maintenance.
Basic functioning without immediate faults.
Process Involvement
Pre-design, construction, operation, maintenance.
Transition from installation to operation.
Compare with Definitions
Commissioning
Involves testing, adjusting, and verifying building systems.
Commissioning the building required detailed documentation of all systems.
Startup
The initial phase of system operation.
During startup, the electrical system was closely monitored for faults.
Commissioning
Aims for energy efficiency and proper maintenance.
Commissioning the water heating system confirmed its energy-efficient performance.
Startup
Marks the transition from installation to operation.
Startup of the cooling towers was completed without any issues.
Commissioning
A process ensuring that systems perform according to design intentions.
The commissioning of the HVAC system involved several tests for efficiency.
Startup
Identifies immediate operational issues.
The startup phase revealed a need for adjustments in the software settings.
Commissioning
Ensures systems meet the owner's operational needs.
Through commissioning, we ensured the lighting system met the owner’s requirements for energy savings.
Startup
Conducted by equipment installers or manufacturers.
The manufacturer was responsible for the startup and initial calibration of the equipment.
Commissioning
Includes functional testing and operator training.
Part of the commissioning process was training the staff on the fire alarm system.
Startup
Focuses on basic operational functionality.
The startup process for the machinery included a basic load test.
Commissioning
The act of granting certain powers or the authority to carry out a particular task or duty.
Startup
The act or process of setting into operation or motion.
Commissioning
The authority so granted.
Startup
A business or undertaking that has recently begun operation
Grew from a tiny startup to a large corporation.
Commissioning
The matter or task so authorized
Investigation of fraud was their commission.
Startup
The act or process of starting a process or machine.
Commissioning
A document conferring such authorization.
Startup
A new company or organization or business venture designed for rapid growth.
Commissioning
A public board or administrative body
The Federal Trade Commission investigates false advertising.
Startup
A folder (especially in Windows), containing shortcuts of applications or programs that start up automatically after a user signs in.
Commissioning
Often Commission A ruling council within the Mafia that adjudicates family disputes and regulates family activities.
Startup
A kind of high-low or thigh-high boot worn by rustic people.
Commissioning
The act of committing or perpetrating
The commission of a crime.
Startup
A kind of gaiter or legging.
Commissioning
A fee or percentage allowed to a sales representative or an agent for services rendered.
Startup
(obsolete) One who comes suddenly into notice; an upstart.
Commissioning
An official document issued by a government, conferring on the recipient the rank of a commissioned officer in the armed forces.
Startup
The act of setting in operation;
Repeated shutdowns and startups are expensive
Commissioning
The rank and powers so conferred.
Startup
The act of starting a new operation or practice;
He opposed the inauguration of fluoridation
The startup of the new factory was delayed by strikes
Commissioning
To grant a military commission to.
Commissioning
To grant authority for (something to be made or done); place an order for
Commission a new symphony for the festival.
Commissioning
To authorize or engage (someone to do something)
Commission an architect to design a building.
Commissioning
To put (a ship) into active service.
Commissioning
Present participle of commission
The admiral will be commissioning the new destroyer in a few minutes.
Commissioning
The process of assuring that all systems and components of a major piece of equipment, a process, a building or similar are designed, installed and tested according to the operational requirements of the owner or final client.
The destroyer's commissioning will be held on February 1st.
Commissioning
The act of granting authority to undertake certain functions
Common Curiosities
Can startup occur before commissioning?
Yes, startup often occurs before commissioning, especially to make systems operational for more detailed testing and adjustments.
What is commissioning?
Commissioning is the process of ensuring that all systems and components of a building or industrial plant are designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained according to the operational requirements of the owner or final client.
What is the goal of commissioning?
The goal of commissioning is to ensure systems are energy-efficient, safe, and will be properly maintained over their lifespan.
Who performs the startup process?
The startup process is often performed by the equipment installer or manufacturer.
What does startup entail?
Startup entails the initial operation of systems or equipment, focusing on ensuring they function according to basic operational requirements.
How do commissioning and startup differ in focus?
Commissioning focuses on long-term efficiency, safety, and maintenance, while startup is concerned with initial functionality.
Does commissioning involve training?
Yes, commissioning includes operator training as part of ensuring systems are maintained and operated correctly.
What systems are involved in commissioning?
Commissioning can involve HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other mechanical systems.
How does commissioning benefit a building owner?
It ensures that the building's systems perform efficiently, reducing operational costs and enhancing safety and comfort.
What happens if commissioning is skipped?
Skipping commissioning can lead to systems not performing optimally, increased energy use, and potential safety risks.
Is startup a one-time event?
Yes, startup is typically a one-time event marking the transition from installation to operation.
What does startup identify?
Startup identifies immediate operational issues that need to be addressed for the system to function properly.
Is commissioning mandatory?
While not always mandatory, commissioning is highly recommended for complex systems to ensure long-term efficiency and safety.
Does startup check for energy efficiency?
Startup primarily checks for basic operational functionality, not specifically for energy efficiency.
What is the relationship between commissioning and building maintenance?
Commissioning establishes the groundwork for effective and efficient building maintenance by ensuring systems are correctly installed and functional.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Kerbstone vs. Curbstone
Next Comparison
Liniment vs. OintmentAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
