FAT, SAT and Site Activities
Factory acceptance testing (FAT)
Witnessed proof, at the manufacturer's works, that equipment functions and performs as specified before it is shipped.
01What the service involves
A factory acceptance test demonstrates that equipment meets the specification under conditions as close to operation as practical. QUALITAS TR witnesses FAT for machinery, process skids, electrical and control systems, pumps and rotating equipment, material handling systems and special machines.
Our scope covers review of the FAT procedure before the test, a readiness check to avoid wasted trips, verification of test instrument calibration, witnessing of each test step (visual and dimensional checks, functional sequences, performance runs, safety functions, alarms and interlocks), recording of results, punch list management and an acceptance recommendation.
02Why buyers need it
FAT is the most cost effective point to find functional problems. Supplier engineers, spare parts and test equipment are all available. After shipment the same problems require travel, site work and delay.
An independent witness ensures the FAT tests what the specification requires, not only what is easy to demonstrate.
03Typical applications
- Special purpose machinery
- Process and utility skids
- Electrical and automation systems
- Pumps, compressors and gear units
- Material handling and conveyor systems
- Agricultural and construction equipment
04Methodology
Procedure review
FAT procedure compared with the specification; missing tests added.
Readiness
Equipment completeness, internal test results and documents confirmed.
Instrument check
Calibration status and suitability of test instruments verified.
Witnessing
Each test step witnessed and recorded; deviations noted.
Acceptance
Punch list classified; acceptance recommendation and report issued.
05Applicable standards and references
Test requirements come from the specification and product standards. For machinery placed on the EU market, the manufacturer's conformity assessment under the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 or the earlier Machinery Directive is the manufacturer's responsibility; FAT verifies contractual performance.
06Deliverables
- FAT procedure review comments
- Readiness confirmation
- FAT witnessing report with results
- Punch list with categories
- Acceptance recommendation
07Customer benefits
- Problems fixed at the factory, not at site
- FAT that covers the specification
- Objective acceptance decision
- Clear punch list ownership
- Faster commissioning
08How QUALITAS TR supports you
FAT is often the final step of an inspection and expediting programme, carried out by the same engineer who knows the equipment.
Frequently asked questions
How long before the FAT should we book an inspector?
Ideally two weeks, with the FAT procedure available for review. Short notice is possible but limits procedure review.
What if the FAT fails?
Failed tests are recorded in the punch list. Depending on severity, the test is repeated after correction or the equipment is accepted with conditions. The decision remains with the buyer.