Startup & Commissioning

NorthWind's Startup and Commissioning team brings the expertise, structure, and hands-on experience to ensure your control system doesn't just power on, but performs exactly as designed from day one. From the moment we begin planning your startup to the moment we hand off the keys, our seasoned project and engineering teams are with you every step of the way. When we leave your facility, your system is running, your team is confident, and you're ready for production.

What Is Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)?

A Site Acceptance Test is a performance test conducted at your facility in accordance with approved test plans and specifications. It verifies that your control system is installed properly, interfaces correctly with all connected systems, and meets or exceeds the functionality and performance requirements you expect.


NorthWind works directly with you throughout the entire process to clarify scope, set expectations, coordinate scheduling, and ensure every milestone is documented and communicated clearly.

Our Commissioning Process 

Pre-Startup

Before any work begins, NorthWind's Project Manager coordinates all resources, confirms scheduling, and conducts a pre-startup review with the commissioning team to align on site requirements, safety expectations, equipment overview, and project schedule.

Pre-Startup

Before any work begins, NorthWind's Project Manager coordinates all resources, confirms scheduling, and conducts a pre-startup review with the commissioning team to align on site requirements, safety expectations, equipment overview, and project schedule.

Panel Power-Up & Communications Setup
  • Panels are powered up safely using proper PPE and in coordination with plant personnel and on-site contractors 
  • First-time panel power-up is conducted by certified electricians 
  • Communications are tested and configured to all PLCs, HMIs, remote panels, and motor control panels 
Safety Circuit Testing

All safety circuits and E-stop circuits are tested for proper function prior to running any motors or testing solenoids. Each safety check is fully documented in the project-specific Safety Validation Report, including device number, validation process, date, and tester name.

I/O Checkout & Calibration

NorthWind performs thorough static input and output testing to verify every signal, device, and sensor is wired and functioning correctly. Field sensors , devices, and scales go through an electronic calibration.

Sequence Testing

Once I/O is verified, NorthWind moves through a structured sequence testing process:


  • Dry Run Testing — Equipment sequenced on without material, validated against the approved Sequence of Operation 
  • Flushing — Lines cleared per customer requirements before production material is introduced 
  • Recipe Downloads — Recipes reviewed, approved, and validated with authorized end-user personnel prior to production runs 
  • Wet Runs / Production Testing — Live production testing in Auto mode, including alarm and shutdown validation; systems are tuned and optimized with material flowing; capacity is increased gradually to ensure stable performance 
  • Verification — BatchLOGIX Reports reviewed after initial batches to confirm accurate data capture
Customer Training

NorthWind doesn't just start up your system. We make sure your team knows how to run it. Comprehensive training is provided for every level of your organization: 



  • Operator Training 
  • Maintenance Training 
  • Supervisor Training 
  • IT Training 
On-Site Handoff

Before NorthWind leaves your facility, we make sure you're fully set up for success: 



  • Punch List Review  
  • Support Contact Information  
  • Documentation Package Delivered