The full form of FAT and SAT is Factory Assessment Test and Site Assessment Test
Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is a formal test performed at the manufacturer’s site to verify that equipment, machines, or systems:Meet technical specifications Function correctly Are ready for delivery and installation at site or not.
Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is a formal test performed at the manufacturer’s site to verify that equipment, machines, or systems:Meet technical specificationsFunction correctlyAre ready for delivery and installation at site
Purpose of FAT
- Detect problems before shipment
- Reduce commissioning time on site
- Confirm compliance with contract, drawings, and standards
- Get client approval before dispatch
Typical FAT Scope
Depends on equipment, but usually includes:
1. Documentation Review
- Approved drawings (GA, wiring, P&ID)
- Technical specifications
- Datasheets
- Software logic / PLC program
- Manuals (Operation & Maintenance)
2. Visual & Mechanical Inspection
- Dimensions and layout
- Material and finish
- Welding and fabrication quality
- Alignment and mounting
- Safety guards and covers
- Nameplates and tagging
3. Electrical & Instrumentation Checks
- Wiring as per drawings
- Cable labelingPanel layout
- Earthing/grounding
- Voltage, current ratings
- Instrument calibration (if applicable)
4. Functional Testing
- Power ON / OFF
- Start–stop sequences
- Manual and automatic modes
- Interlocks and permissives
- Alarm and trip functions
- Emergency stop (E-Stop)
5. Control System / PLC / HMI Testing
- I/O checking
- PLC logic verification
- HMI screens and commands
- Alarm display and reset
- Communication (if networked)
6. Performance Testing
- Capacity/output verification
- Speed, pressure, temperature checks
- Load or no-load tests(as per contract requirements)
7. Safety Testing
- Emergency stop response
- Safety interlocksLimit switches
- Compliance with safety standards
8. FAT Punch List
- Record deviations or issues
- Corrective actions agreed
- Responsible person and target date
FAT Documentation / DeliverablesFAT test proceduresCompleted FAT checklistTest results and recordsCalibration certificatesPunch list and closure reportFAT Acceptance Certificate (signed by client)
FAT vs SAT (Quick Difference)FAT → At manufacturer’s factorySAT (Site Acceptance Test) → At actual installation site
Who Attends FAT?Manufacturer / VendorClient or OwnerConsultant / Third-party inspector (if required)
What is SAT?
Site Acceptance Test (SAT) is the final testing carried out at the actual installation site after equipment is:
- Delivered
- Installed
- Connected to utilities and other systems
SAT confirms the system works under real site conditions.
Purpose of SAT
- Verify correct installation
- Confirm performance with actual utilities and loads
- Validate integration with other equipment
- Achieve final handover and acceptance
SAT Scope
1. Pre-SAT Checks
- FAT completed and approved
- All punch points from FAT closed
- Installation as per approved drawings
- Utilities available (power, air, water, raw material)
- Safety clearances approved
2. Mechanical Installation Verification
- Alignment and leveling
- Foundation and anchor bolts
- Piping and ducting connections
- Lubrication and oil levels
- Guards and covers installed
3. Electrical & Instrumentation Checks
- Power supply verification
- Earthing/grounding continuity
- Cable termination checks
- Field instrument calibration
- Loop checking
- Signal verification
4. Functional Testing
- Power ON / OFF
- Start–stop from local and control room
- Manual and automatic modes
- Interlocks and permissives
- Alarm and trip verification