Prøvedrift

Prøvedrift, literally "trial operation" in Norwegian, is the period during which a new facility, system, or major modification is operated under close supervision before commencing full commercial operation. The purpose is to verify performance against design specifications, validate safety and reliability, finalize operating procedures, and train staff. It also allows engineers to identify and resolve problems and to collect data for optimization.

Typical scope includes pre-commissioning, functional and performance testing, safety system validation, environmental and regulatory checks, and gradual ramp-up of output or load. Tests may be performed with reduced capacity, elevated monitoring, and contingency procedures. Documentation includes testing protocols, deviation records, and acceptance certificates.

Prøvedrift ends when predefined criteria are met and authorities or the project owner issue an acceptance or operating permit, after which routine operation begins. The period can last from weeks to months, and may be extended to address remaining issues.

In English and in other contexts, synonyms include trial operation, commissioning, start-up testing, or shakedown. It is common in sectors such as energy production, heavy industry, mining, offshore installations, water and wastewater plants, and major infrastructural projects.