Before you want to connect the cable to the main circuit breaker inside the panel make sure that you have disconnected the power using this switch. With a Factory Acceptance Test, you make sure that everything works properly before you deliver a control cabinet to a customer. The purpose of Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) is to demonstrate the hardware quality, system configuration, and specification compliance of the SCADA system prior to shipping to the solar PV project site. Testing may be basic, such as testing of main components, or may include more thorough inspecting and testing of subassemblies.

Collaborate, review, and approve by internal engineering and stakeholder departments. Protect project value by ensuring quality and preventing delays with our construction site supervision services. Virtual assessment offers you digital support from our experts anytime anywhere. TÜV Rheinland has the largest international network among German testing, inspection and certification companies. We offer a broad portfolio of tailored one-stop-shop solutions to cover all your needs along your supply chain.

Step Test the PLC analog inputs

If the quantity of non-passing test cases does not breach the project’s predetermined threshold, the test suite is said to pass. If it does, the system may either be rejected or accepted on conditions previously agreed between the sponsor and the manufacturer. When performing a FAT for a control cabinet that includes a PLC, like the example we have here, one of the most important things to test is the PLC inputs and outputs.

Customers might choose to conduct an FAT to ensure the components and controls function as required. Testing performed at the factory has several advantages, especially the advantage of identifying problems before the equipment leaves the factory. The objective is to provide confidence that the developed product meets both the functional and non-functional requirements.

System Vacuum Tests

Execution of factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) is a business-critical activity when it comes to commissioning of a new system or equipment. Our experts are available on-site at the production facility to provide third-party verification that factory acceptance tests and processes meet the highest performance and safety standards in the industry. A factory acceptance test (FAT) is a process that verifies if newly purchased factory equipment meets the requirements before it’s delivered to the customer’s site. A FAT is usually performed by quality managers, operators, design engineers, and maintenance personnel in the manufacturing facility before the equipment is delivered and installed at the client’s site.

In summary, the Factory Acceptance Test plays a vital role in ensuring the quality, compliance, and reliability of electrical equipment. It helps prevent potential problems, provides assurance to customers, and contributes to the overall success of a project. Patronics Services has a team of qualified and experienced electrical engineers that can undertake FAT inspection for your equipment and to ensure that it is of high quality and meets the required standards. It ensures that all equipment meets the design specifications and functions properly, both individually and as a whole system. It also ensures quality, controls costs, and maintains the schedule. Therefore, testing needs to be planned at a very early stage of the project, and testing requirement needs to be written in the contract or purchase order specifications.

Having said that, astute customers will continue to insist on a form of FATs and training in a factory before the panel is dispatched. At Distribution Board SA, we offer virtual inspection walkthroughs via ZOOM, functionality video testing as well as on floor FAT’s depending on the customer’s preferences and requirements. The FAT includes general testing procedures for ensuring the proper operation of the system. This can include but is not limited to continuity tests, earth leakage tests, live testing, megger, and insulation testing.

The FAT takes place before the SCADA rack ships to the solar PV project site. It is easier for the SCADA integrator to make adjustments to the system while it is still in-house rather than out in the field. Later, Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) is performed to test the system once it has been installed in the field.

This is especially true if the product will be packed at a certain temperature, or has a certain consistency or rate of speed coming out of production. Much time, energy, and money has been spent in vain trying to address “failures” in the machine builder’s plant, only to find that the machine works perfectly once in production at the customer’s plant. This paper outlines the benefits, pros and cons of factory acceptance testing and explains the process this compliance route requires. As an independent verification and certification company, we support your project or manufacturing process with extensive services along the supply chain.

• As owner or operator of industrial facilities, successful and effective production depends on equipment that runs smoothly.
• The following blog post outlines the key differences between FAT and SAT.
• Witnessed extended-run tests must be scheduled and approved at least four weeks prior to the engine-generator set’s scheduled ship date.
• As a highly qualified, independent third-party, we have the trusted skills and resources to perform steadfast testing.
• So you have connected the power to the main circuit breaker and turned on all the devices on your panel.
• The other way to check the wiring diagram for your card is the manual.

Making such changes at the installation site is impractical; hence, FAT is a must-do step versus nice to do, for critical systems. FATs are beneficial not just for the buyer and end users but definition of factory acceptance testing for the manufacturer as well. Both parties can be assured that the equipment meets all the contractual specifications and any issues can be addressed before arriving at the customer’s site.