What it is used for
First and foremost, factory acceptance testing must be done when acquiring new equipment and it helps reduce the risk that this new equipment will not perform as expected.
To do this, the equipment must be tested from several angles to demonstrate that it is capable of meeting the customer's needs once in the factory.
Key elements of a good FAT when purchasing a water treatment system
First, review the drawings to confirm that the system has been manufactured in accordance with the plans that were developed during the design stage. Next, hydrostatic and hydrodynamic tests are performed to ensure that there are no leaks in the system. Once the leak detection is completed, the water inlet and outlet must be checked to ensure that all connections on the system are adequate and functional.
Once the manufacturing tests are completed, a functional check must be performed to ensure that the system is operating as it should. In other words, that the automations are properly set up and that the alarms and indicators are working properly. Moreover, when indicators and alarms are tested, it is not only necessary to test if they are functional, it is also necessary to ensure that they activate for the right reasons and at the right times.
Now that the manufacturing and the proper functioning of the system are confirmed, a performance test must be performed to validate that the quantity and quality of water supplied represents the customer's needs. Once the performance tests are completed, the documents must be examined. Before shipping the new equipment, it is important to ensure that all documentation is representative and included with the system. Finally, a pre-shipment inspection ensures that all equipment is secure before shipping and that nothing arrives damaged.
Some benefits of doing a factory acceptance test
A factory acceptance test is a good way to diagnose and fix problems before the system arrives at the customer's facility. By doing so, the costs associated with repairs or adjustments to the system are drastically reduced.
In addition, doing a FAT protects the parties since the tests performed demonstrate that the system's characteristics are in compliance with the contract.