Factory Acceptance Test
A process of testing equipment or components, such as valves and actuators, performed after assembly to verify that the components or facilities are made according to the relevant standards and specifications. A pressure test is considered to be part of FAT.
FATs are beneficial not just for the buyer and end users but 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.
FATs almost always save time and money over fixing issues in the field.