What Is a FAT Test and Why Is It Necessary?
In order for industrial projects to be completed successfully, it is not enough to simply deliver products the delivered equipment must also meet specifications and operate correctly. This is where the FAT Test, or Factory Acceptance Test, comes in. FAT is a critical quality control process performed in the manufacturing facility just before shipment under the supervision of the customer or a third-party consultant. This test ensures that products sent to the project site will operate flawlessly.
What Is a FAT Test?
A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is the testing of equipment in a factory environment at the end of engineering and manufacturing processes to verify performance, safety, and compliance with technical specifications. Typically, a customer representative, project engineer, or independent factory inspection consultant participates in the testing. During the procedure, all functions of the equipment are checked, any defects are corrected, and results are documented and signed off.
The greatest advantage of FAT is that it detects potential defects and nonconformities before deployment to the project site saving time and preventing rework and related costs.
How Does the FAT Test Process Work?
The FAT process is customized according to the project's technical specifications. Test procedures, checklists, and performance criteria are predefined. The process generally includes:
1. Preparation: The manufacturer and the customer schedule the test and prepare the necessary documentation. A third-party factory inspection consultant may be engaged if needed.
2. Test Execution: The equipment is operated in its manufacturing environment. Functional tests, safety checks, and electrical and mechanical measurements are performed. Software and automation systems are also tested if applicable.
3. Evaluation of Results: Any identified nonconformities are corrected and the test is repeated. Upon successful completion, all data is reported and an acceptance form is signed.
4.Certification and Shipment: Following a successful FAT, the product is cleared for shipment. Reports and certificates accompany the equipment.
Why Is a FAT Test Necessary?
Compliance Confirmation
FAT demonstrates that the equipment complies with the technical specifications. Customers can be confident the product will perform as ordered.
Risk Reduction
Potential failures, installation delays, or incompatibilities on-site are detected and resolved early.
Time and Cost Savings
On-site issues often require rework and cause delays. FAT minimizes these risks and associated costs.
Documentation and Traceability
Test reports and records serve as references for future maintenance and audits. These records are especially critical in sectors requiring certification and regulation.
In Which Industries Is FAT Commonly Applied?
Factory Acceptance Testing is frequently used in industries such as energy, petrochemicals, water treatment, automation, machinery manufacturing, shipbuilding, and infrastructure projects. Pump systems, switchboards, control systems, pressure vessels, and automation panels are among the main product groups undergoing the FAT process.
Professional FAT Test Consultancy with Enkomet
With operations in Turkey and Germany, Enkomet manages and oversees the FAT test process for both domestic and international projects. Our experienced engineering team operates under the principle of independent supervision, acting as an unbiased bridge between manufacturers and customers.
Enkomet’s factory acceptance test consultancy service encompasses not only the test itself, but also pre-test documentation checks, test procedure preparation, and post-test report evaluation. This allows customers to ensure that all quality criteria are met before shipment.
Additionally, Enkomet integrates NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) inspections and welding audits into the FAT process, enabling a comprehensive assessment of equipment.
A FAT test is not just a technical check—it is an indispensable step for ensuring project safety, quality, and sustainability. Each project should include a factory acceptance test process to detect defects early, prepare complete quality documentation, and ensure secure delivery to the field.
Enkomet conducts this process for you with transparency, speed, and adherence to technical standards.
📩 For FAT test services, please contact us:
📧 info@enkomet.com | 🌐 www.enkomet.com/iletisim