Site Acceptance Test (SAT) and Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) are both important stages in the validation and commissioning process of transformers. However, they differ in terms of their location, scope, participants, and objectives. Here's a comparison of the two:
Factory Acceptance Test (FAT):
Location: A FAT is conducted at the manufacturer's facility, where the equipment or system is designed and assembled.
Objective: The primary goal of a FAT is to verify that the system or equipment has been built according to the client's specifications, meets design requirements, and functions correctly before it is shipped to the final installation site.
Scope: The test typically includes checks on functionality, performance, safety, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Participants: The FAT is usually attended by representatives from the manufacturer, the client (or end-user), and sometimes third-party inspectors or certification bodies. This collaborative effort allows for immediate feedback and correction if necessary.
Site Acceptance Test (SAT):
Location: SAT is carried out at the final installation site, after the equipment or system has been delivered, installed, and integrated into the client's environment.
Objective: The main objective of a SAT is to confirm that the system operates effectively within its intended environment, integrating seamlessly with other systems or infrastructure, and fulfilling the specific operational requirements of the site. It verifies that the system functions as expected under real-world conditions and that all interfaces and configurations are correct.
Scope: The SAT goes beyond the checks performed during FAT, focusing on site-specific conditions such as environmental factors, interfacing with existing systems, and operational procedures. It may also include testing of emergency shutdown procedures, maintenance routines, and staff training.
Participants: Participants typically include the client's team, who will be operating the equipment. Site personnel are heavily involved to ensure they are familiar with the operation and maintenance of the system.
In summary, while FAT is a crucial step to validate the equipment's functionality before shipment, SAT is the final verification that the system meets all requirements and is ready for operational use in its intended environment.