Factory Acceptance Test– What Is FAT, and How Does It Work?

When a piece of new equipment is manufactured, it has the potential for countless errors. With an increase in the machine’s complexity, the error potential also increases. It is, therefore, required to test the equipment to find out if the equipment is working as needed without errors. This test is known as the factory acceptance test which is popular by its acronym “FAT”. In this article, we will explore more about FAT, its definition, purpose, steps, examples, checklist, and differences with the site acceptance tests (SAT).

What Is Factory Acceptance Testing or FAT?

Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) is a test performed for newly manufactured and packaged equipment by the vendor prior to shipping to ensure the equipment meets its intended purpose. This optional test is performed once the design and fabrication of the equipment are complete following approved test plans as agreed with the client. The FAT ensures that the equipment meets all the client requirements as mentioned in the purchase order specifications.

Purpose of a Factory Acceptance Test

The factory Acceptance testing or FAT guarantees that the equipment is complying with all the requirements and are ready to be commissioned without any problem. This test is performed at the factory and is beneficial for both the end users and the manufacturer. Any functional issues are identified before the equipment leaves the factory premise and can easily be rectified by the manufacturer. Thus FAT helps in controlling the project timeline and cost.

Even though, FAT is optional, it must not be skipped. If any problem is found after the equipment is installed, it may result in costly shutdowns. So, a factory acceptance test provides a number of other benefits like:

• Accessibility requirements for operation and maintenance are checked.
• The location of tie-in connection points is ensured at the proper location.
• Electrical connections are checked.
• Equipment-related documentation is verified.
• Equipment complying with the project-related drawings and specifications is ensured.
• Hands-on training for the equipment operation can be taken from the manufacturer who knows all the nitty-gritty of the equipment.
• Meeting the design, engineering, and fabrication team in person

Difference between a Factory Acceptance Test and a Site Acceptance Test

A Factory Acceptance Test is performed before the equipment is delivered. On the other hand, A Site Acceptance Test or SAT is conducted once the equipment is installed at the site. So, SAT is performed after FAT along with all interfaces and peripherals in the working environment of the equipment. The major differences between a Factory acceptance test and a Site acceptance test are provided in Table 1 below:

I am a Mechanical Engineer turned into a Piping Engineer. Currently, I work in a reputed MNC as a Senior Piping Stress Engineer. I am very much passionate about blogging and always tried to do unique things. This website is my first venture into the world of blogging with the aim of connecting with other piping engineers around the world.

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