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The Importance of Quality Factory Acceptance Testing

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When a business is purchasing and installing switchboard equipment integral to the success of the organisation, the purchaser needs reassurance that it will perform as it should. Quality Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) allows clients to achieve this.

Switchboards aren’t pulled from a box and plugged in. They are fully customised to the requirements of the purchasing business so they are built to meet agreed specifications.

FAT is one of the last customer-to-supplier feedback methods to help ensure that the customer’s expectations are met prior to shipping, installation and startup. The dialogue that occurs during FAT can be valuable in uncovering potential issues that may not have been discussed or considered earlier in the design process. Any minor adjustments can be made before shipping, so the purchaser receives equipment that is perfect for their requirements.

FAT has quickly become a standard final step to make sure installations and startups go off without a hitch. The advantages of thorough FAT include:

Getting What you Paid For


With FAT, purchasers have the opportunity to confirm that the requirements document matches what has been delivered by the supplier as promised. If a feature is missing or not working as the purchaser expected, the supplier can amend before the equipment leaves the supplier’s premises.

Familiarisation with New Equipment


During FAT, the purchaser can spend time getting to understand their new equipment and how it works. They have face-to-face access to the people who designed and built the equipment so if they have any questions, they can gain answers quickly and easily. FAT also makes for easier installs and a shortened learning curve when on site.

Save on Time and Freight Costs


It is common for new switchboards to be installed hundreds or even thousands of kilometres from where they are manufactured. It is too costly and time-consuming to return equipment to its place of manufacture or for replacement parts or staff to arrive on-site. A switchboard needs to work perfectly from the day it arrives.

Testing in Varying Conditions


FAT is an opportunity to test equipment in an environment similar to its new home. In Western Australia, switchboards are purchased by mining companies working in some of the harshest environments in the world. During thorough FAT, the equipment should be stress tested in hot or cold conditions by varying the heating or air conditioning of the FAT facility.

Peace of Mind for Everyone


By completing FAT before new equipment leaves the supplier’s factory means staff from the purchaser can be reassured it will work when it gets to its new location. The supplier will often complete a full FAT before the client arrives to test and iron out any issues so both sides can be confident the equipment is working to specification before it ships.

Quality Testing Facilities


Not all Factory Acceptance Testing is conducted the same.

Switchboard purchasers should demand dedicated FAT facilities to be able to perform the thorough testing that is needed. Many electronic manufacturers provide their clients with access to:

  • Earth leakage protected feeder circuits for powering the cabinets being tested
  • Test racks for the simulation of up to 6500 I/O
  • Reverse cycle air-conditioning to enable heat rise testing and comfort of staff conducting testing

Further, FAT is an important part of the whole switchboard purchasing process so before signing a contract, purchasers should enquire about the time and space made available for testing.

If you need assistance on FAT of your switchboard equipment, it is best to consult an expert or an agency for further details on the process, before making any business decisions. 
Location: Perth WA, Australia

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