FAT & SAT Services
Structured Testing Support for Custom Automation Systems
Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) are important steps that help verify custom automation systems before shipment, during installation, or as part of final validation. These processes confirm that equipment performs as intended, supports documentation requirements, and provides a structured way to identify and resolve outstanding issues.
Hallfield Controls supports FAT and SAT as part of our engineering, programming, build, and commissioning services. We work alongside our customers’ engineering, quality, and procurement teams by assisting with system testing, answering technical questions, documenting results when required, and helping resolve any identified issues.
A Supportive Role That Fits the Realities of Custom Systems
Most Hallfield Controls projects are custom, so testing and validation rarely follow the same process. Some customers require a formal FAT with witness sign-off before shipment, while others prefer a factory run-through followed by startup and debugging on-site. In regulated industries, the customer’s quality team must complete their verification before equipment becomes operational.
That’s why Hallfield Controls approaches FAT and SAT as a collaborative support service rather than a one-size-fits-all package. We can help develop testing documentation or work from customer-provided protocols, supporting testing and validation under the customer’s direction.
How Hallfield Controls Supports FAT and SAT Services
Our support can include:
- Pre-shipment equipment power-up and functional checks at our facility
- Participation in formal FAT witness testing with customer teams
- FAT and SAT documentation support when required by the project
- Review of open items, deviations, and corrective action needs
- On-site startup, final debug, and configuration adjustments
- Follow-up visits to resolve validation findings before final acceptance
What the Process Often Looks Like
Because every automation project is custom, we typically follow an iterative process:
Pre-Shipment Testing
We test as much of the system's hardware, software, and functionality as possible before shipment.
Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)
If required, the customer witnesses testing at our facility using their own protocol or a jointly developed checklist.
Installation and Startup Support
Once the equipment is installed, we provide on-site support during startup and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
Review and Documentation
Customer engineering or quality teams document any deviations, outstanding items, or required adjustments during verification.
Issue Resolution and Retesting
Our team addresses identified issues, retests the affected functionality, and supports any follow-up review cycles.
Final Acceptance
The process continues until the system performs as intended and the customer is satisfied with the results.
FAQs
No. Hallfield Controls can generate FAT and SAT documentation, but in many cases the customer’s engineering or quality team leads that process, and we support it.
Yes. We can support formal witness testing at our facility or on-site, answer technical questions, and help document results or resolve open items.
That is common on custom equipment. Hallfield Controls works through deviations with the customer, makes needed corrections, and supports retesting until the system is performing as intended.
Discuss Your FAT and SAT Requirements with Hallfield Controls
If your team needs supportive testing participation, witness support, or help working through post-installation validation, Hallfield Controls can help. Contact our team at (763) 360-9875 to schedule a technical review and discuss your project, documentation expectations, and acceptance process.