Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)
Ensuring Your Control Panel Is Ready Before It Leaves the Factory
Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) is a critical stage in the control panel manufacturing process. Before a control panel is delivered and installed, it should be thoroughly inspected and tested to verify that it has been manufactured in accordance with the approved design and performs as intended.
A structured FAT process helps identify potential issues before installation, reducing commissioning time, minimising site disruption and giving confidence that the control panel is ready for operation.
At Stratos, Factory Acceptance Testing forms an important part of our quality assurance process, helping deliver reliable industrial control panels that are ready for installation and commissioning.
What Is Factory Acceptance Testing?
Factory Acceptance Testing is carried out at the manufacturer's facility before equipment is shipped to site.
The purpose is to confirm that:
• The control panel has been built to the approved design.
• Components have been installed correctly.
• Wiring is accurate and complete.
• Safety functions operate correctly.
• Documentation matches the completed panel.
• The system performs as specified before delivery.
Completing FAT before installation helps reduce project risk and avoids unnecessary delays during site commissioning.
Why Factory Acceptance Testing Matters
A comprehensive FAT process offers several benefits:
• Identify issues before delivery.
• Reduce commissioning time.
• Minimise production disruption.
• Improve project quality.
• Confirm panel functionality.
• Verify documentation accuracy.
• Provide confidence before installation.
• Support a smoother handover.
Testing equipment in a controlled factory environment allows any issues to be resolved before they become costly site problems.
The Factory Acceptance Testing Process
Although every project is different, a typical Factory Acceptance Testing process includes:
Review of Approved Documentation
Engineers confirm that the manufactured control panel matches:
• Approved drawings
• Electrical schematics
• Bills of materials
• Functional specifications
• Customer requirements
Visual Inspection
A detailed inspection verifies:
• Component layout
• Panel workmanship
• Labelling
• Cable routing
• Mechanical assembly
• Enclosure condition
• Safety markings
This helps ensure the control panel has been manufactured to a high standard before electrical testing begins.
Electrical Testing
Electrical testing may include:
• Continuity testing
• Insulation resistance testing
• Power-up checks
• Input and output verification
• Control circuit testing
• Alarm testing
• Emergency stop verification
• Functional sequence testing
Testing confirms the panel operates safely and performs according to the agreed design.
Inspection
Inspection forms an essential part of Factory Acceptance Testing.
• Checks typically include:
• Correct component installation
• Wiring accuracy
• Protective earth continuity
• Terminal identification
• Cable management
• Enclosure integrity
• Mechanical fixings
• Compliance with project documentation
These inspections help ensure the finished control panel meets quality expectations before delivery.
Documentation
Accurate documentation is just as important as the physical control panel.
Factory Acceptance Testing is typically supported by documentation such as:
• Electrical drawings
• Panel layouts
• Test records
• Inspection reports
• Component schedules
• Bills of materials
• Operating documentation
• Quality records
Providing complete documentation supports future maintenance, troubleshooting and system upgrades.
Witness Testing
Many customers choose to attend Factory Acceptance Testing through witness testing.
During witness testing, customer representatives can observe:
• Functional demonstrations
• Safety testing
• Control sequences
• Alarm operation
• PLC functionality
• HMI operation
• Acceptance checks
• Final inspections
Witness testing provides an opportunity to verify that the system meets project requirements before shipment and allows any questions to be addressed before installation.
Factory Acceptance Testing Reduces Project Risk
Identifying issues before equipment reaches site is significantly more efficient than resolving them during commissioning.
By carrying out structured Factory Acceptance Testing, organisations can:
• Reduce installation delays.
• Improve commissioning efficiency.
• Increase confidence in system performance.
• Improve project quality.
• Minimise disruption to production.
• Support successful project delivery.
Why Choose Stratos?
At Stratos, Factory Acceptance Testing is an integral part of our control panel manufacturing process. Every project is carefully inspected, tested and documented to help ensure your industrial control panel is ready for installation and reliable operation.
Our experienced engineers work closely with customers throughout the design, manufacture and testing process, providing transparency, technical expertise and confidence before equipment leaves the factory.
Verify Your Control Panel Before Installation
A well-executed Factory Acceptance Test can save time, reduce risk and improve project outcomes. Speak to Stratos about our Factory Acceptance Testing process and how we help ensure every control panel is fully inspected, tested and ready for successful commissioning.
