Field Services
When the equipment leaves our manufacturing facility, our job is not over. We are often involved with the on-site work including start-up and commissioning and verification that equipment is operating correctly within specifications. In some instances, we also provide full turn-key installation services, providing a single source of supply for the entire project.
On-Site Startup & Commissioning
Our factory trained field service personnel are specialists in airfield lighting power and control systems. Backgrounds include electricians, electrical technicians and technologists and electrical engineers. During the start-up and commissioning service, we test each component, verifying that they have been installed per manufacturer’s instructions and are operating correctly. We test the system for compliance with the applicable FAA or other specifications and ensure that the products as installed meet the needs of the airport. Calibration of sensors and monitoring equipment and verification of alarms and events are also provided during the commissioning phase.
Turnkey Installation Services
With complex multi-disciplined projects such as an ALFEC, it is important to have control of the project in order to ensure that it is completed on schedule and on budget. Liberty understands what it takes to work airside on an operational airfield where the lights must be returned to ATC control in short notice. We know what it takes to work around other contractors, special air operations requirements, rapidly changing weather conditions and any other problems or challenges that can occur at a moment’s notice. We have developed strategies and methodologies to ensure that control from ATC is maximized and always available before dusk. We take airport operations seriously and pride ourselves on being able to contribute positively towards making air travel safer and a positive experience for the travelling public.
For projects that are predominantly power or control related, it often makes sense for Liberty to provide complete turnkey installation services. In this case, we are the prime contractor and will hire local electricians for installation support. The benefit to the airport is single source responsibility, lower installed cost, and minimal coordination and project management required.
Operations & Maintenance Training
Training is an important part of any project. For Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring Systems, training for Air Traffic Controllers begins during the design phase of the tower graphics. Often this can be done remotely using an on-line training system, with final training completed on site prior to changeover. Maintenance training generally occurs after the installation is complete and includes hands on training on the operation of the system as well as maintenance and troubleshooting. We also offer refresher courses either on-site or at our location on any power or control system product.
Test & Inspection Services
We can provide annual or semi-annual on-site inspection and testing of all hardware and software to ensure correct operation within allowable specifications. This program helps the airport identify and replace components that are nearing the end of their operating life, increases the reliability and reduces maintenance and troubleshooting costs. System review and refresher training for key maintenance personnel is included as part of the test and inspection process. A comprehensive report details the tests performed with recommendations for preventative maintenance and component replacements. Examples of tests are listed below:
- Inspection of hardware for excessive wear, loose connections, incorrect operation or physical damage.
- Testing of power systems, protective devices, batteries and backup UPS operation.
- Diagnostic testing of computers, monitors, and peripherals. Verify ability to recover from backup software. Backups are created if necessary.
- Testing of communication links and automatic switchover to backup links and recovery.
- Testing and verification of distributed control and monitoring hardware, all backup systems and failsafe operation.
- Review of system graphics and alarm and event logs to identify any potential problems.
- Verify airport has adequate spare parts and that they are in working condition. Verify that the correct versions of firmware and software are installed if applicable.
- Test and verify remote access capability for trouble-shooting via telephone line modem.
- Verify adjustments and settings on all equipment and re-calibrate settings if required.