The quality (and hence reliability) of a component can be influenced during the design stage by means of the product specification. End users need to find the right balance between a functional specification outlining their specific needs and make use of international standards which have been prepared by industry experts in order to allow manufacturers a certain freedom of design while delivering "comparable" products which meet at least a minimum set of requirements.

Before selecting and ordering a T&D Network Component, a Turbine, a Generator or whatever component Utility Companies and their consultants want to assure themselves that they select a supplier who will deliver them a component which meets international (IEC) specifications as well as the implied and explicit needs as stated in their own specifications. Manufacturers have to demonstrate their capabilities by submitting prequalification documentation which usually includes type test reports or certificates issued by independent third parties. Companies like CESI, DNVGL, & DEKRA are some of the well known independent third parties who can provide independent evidence of successful completion of a type test.

Once a product is ordered quality control and inspection activities in the factory assure that the component which will be delivered is: 
a) the same product as the product that the manufacturer has type tested

b) meeting the requirements of the specification and hence complies with the quality level which is expected.

Our consultants and inspectors can witness type tests, perform factory audits, supervise the manufacturing process and perform factory acceptance tests on your behalf. We also advise on where to add "hold points" and "information points" in quality plans and supervise commissioning testing if required.

In cases where a component has failed we are frequently called upon to inspect the failed component to carry out a root cause analysis and advise on corrective actions to prevent re-occurrence.