Opening night at the theater isn’t when you figure things out, and neither is the launch day of your packaging automation. You wouldn’t perform a play without rehearsing, so why integrate a packaging line solution without testing the equipment first?
FAT and SAT are essential pre-show rehearsals that ensure your packaging system is ready for performance. When you invest in packaging automation, every step in the process matters. Skipping a factory acceptance test or a site acceptance test can result in significant time and financial losses in the long run. These structured testing procedures verify mechanical performance, safety compliance, and system integration before and after installation.
By ensuring smooth operation in a controlled environment first (FAT) and then under real-world conditions (SAT), manufacturers reduce downtime, safeguard their investment, and give their teams the confidence to run production at full capacity.
FAT: Factory Acceptance Testing
Before equipment leaves the manufacturer, the factory acceptance test acts as the first checkpoint to confirm everything is built and functioning as expected.
What is it?
Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) is your first chance to see the automated packaging solution in action, performed under controlled conditions at the OEM’s site before the equipment ships to your facility.
What does it check?
- Mechanical and electrical functionality
- Compliance with your design and performance specs
- Adherence to safety and quality standards
- Proper operation of controls and automation sequences
Why it matters
This is the technical rehearsal before the performance takes place on your plant floor. It’s where your team watches the performance, notes what needs adjusting, and works out the kinks. Catching issues here means fewer surprises later and smoother production when it counts.
SAT: Site Acceptance Testing
Once the machinery arrives at your facility, the site acceptance test ensures the system works seamlessly in your environment and under real production conditions.
What is it?
Once your automated packaging solution is delivered, installed, and connected, Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)verifies that everything performs correctly in your environment and under your operating conditions.
What does it ensure?
- Equipment is correctly installed and functioning properly
- No shipping-related damage or misalignment
- Seamless integration with your existing systems
- Real-time performance under production-like conditions
Why it matters
Even the best equipment can hit bumps in transit, literally. Bolts loosen. Sensors shift. Settings get jostled. SAT ensures your creative packaging solution is tuned and production-ready.
No Rehearsal = Risky Premiere
At Creative Packaging Solutions, we don’t just deliver custom packaging solutions; we deliver performance. That’s why we strongly encourage every client to conduct an FAT and an SAT. Contact us today to understand further how FATs and SATs provide confidence and reliability!
Together, they provide full-circle confidence and documentation that your automated packaging machinery is built to your specifications and ready to perform when the curtain rises.
Want an example? One of our clients almost skipped FAT to speed up delivery. It turns out that a wiring mislabel and an additional size added at the last minute would’ve caused installation delays if they had passed on the FAT. That’s a big save for a simple test.
Why FAT & SAT Are Worth the Spotlight
Still wondering if these tests are necessary? Here’s what they help you avoid and why they matter:
- Catch issues early – A faulty sensor found during FAT is a quick fix. Found after production starts? That’s costly downtime.
- Peace of mind – FAT and SAT give your team the confidence that everything is working before your operation depends on it.
- Protect your investment – A slight misalignment in setup can lead to massive performance issues. SAT ensures that doesn’t happen.
Get It Right Before Opening Night
Buying end-of-line packaging automation is a serious investment. Don’t wait until “showtime” to find out if it’s ready. FAT gives you confidence before it ships. SAT confirms it works on your floor.
Together, they ensure your machinery performs reliably. On your stage, under your lights, in your day-to-day operations.