What is a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT)?
A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is a quality assurance process where a manufacturer tests a machine or system before delivering it to the customer. This ensures it meets the agreed-upon specifications and requirements. Conducted at the manufacturer’s facility, FAT typically includes functional and performance testing. Once the equipment passes FAT, a Site Acceptance Test (SAT) is usually performed at the customer’s location to verify its operation in the actual working environment.
What is a Factory Acceptance Test needed for?
A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is essential to verify that a machine or system meets the customer’s specifications before delivery. It helps identify and resolve any defects or issues in advance, ensuring a smooth handover and minimizing potential problems during installation and operation.
What is the difference between FAT and SAT?
The key difference between a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and a Site Acceptance Test (SAT) lies in their location and timing. FAT is conducted at the manufacturer’s facility before delivery to verify that the machine or system meets the customer’s requirements. In contrast, SAT takes place at the customer’s site after installation to confirm that the equipment is properly set up and fully operational in its actual working environment.
How to conduct a Factory Acceptance Test?
Define Requirements
Clearly outline the machine or system being tested, along with the specific performance criteria and customer requirements it must meet.
Set Up the Test Environment
Prepare the necessary infrastructure, including hardware, software, and any additional components required to conduct the test effectively.
Perform the Tests
Carry out a series of functional and performance tests to verify that the machine operates according to the predefined specifications.
Document the Results
Record the test outcomes and compare them against the requirements. A FAT checklist is often used to ensure all key aspects are evaluated.
Generate a Report
Summarize the test findings in a detailed report, which serves as documentation for the customer and stakeholders.
Address Issues
If any defects or inconsistencies are identified, they are resolved before the machine is shipped. Once corrected, the system moves on to the Site Acceptance Test (SAT) at the customer’s location.
What is an example of a factory acceptance test?
An example of a Factory Acceptance Test could be the evaluation of an industrial mixer for a food processing plant. During the FAT, the mixer would undergo functional and performance testing at the manufacturer’s facility to ensure it meets quality and safety standards before being shipped to the customer.
How long does factory acceptance test take?
The duration of a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) typically ranges from one to three days, depending on the complexity of the equipment being tested. To ensure transparency, FAT is usually conducted in the presence of a third-party inspector and/or a customer representative.
Who should attend the factory acceptance test?
A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) should be attended by all engineers responsible for the equipment, as well as key stakeholders such as quality assurance personnel, project managers, and customer representatives. Their presence ensures thorough evaluation, verification, and transparency during the testing process.
Who writes the factory acceptance test?
The dealer or system integrator is responsible for preparing and submitting the FAT procedure before the test. This process must be reviewed and approved by the project manager or system owner. The FAT document should outline the testing of key functionalities and verify all interfaces between the equipment and connected systems to ensure seamless integration.
Why is a factory acceptance test important?
A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is crucial for both manufacturers and end-users, as it verifies that the equipment meets all specified requirements before delivery. Identifying and resolving issues early helps prevent complications at the customer’s site, ensuring a smoother installation. This proactive approach also helps keep the project on schedule and within budget.
