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Procurement Guide2026-08-0611 min read

Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) for Process Equipment: Inspection Checklist

Inspecting equipment at the manufacturer's facility before dispatch catches defects that are expensive to fix on site. This checklist covers what to witness, what documents to verify, and what dimensional checks to perform.

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A Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is an inspection conducted at the manufacturer's works before equipment is dispatched to site. For critical process equipment — pressure vessels, heat exchangers, reactors — witnessing the hydrostatic test and reviewing documentation at FAT is standard practice on international projects and increasingly expected on domestic Indian projects for high-value orders.

Pre-FAT Document Review (Before Travel)

Request these documents at least 2 weeks before FAT so you can review before arriving:

  • Approved for fabrication drawings (AFF drawings) — compare against your purchase order specification
  • Material Test Certificates (MTCs) for all pressure-containing parts — verify heat numbers match drawings
  • Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and welder qualification records
  • Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) with hold points marked
  • Radiographic or ultrasonic examination reports — check all welds are covered and results are acceptable
  • Post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) chart if applicable

Dimensional Checks at FAT

  • Overall dimensions — length, diameter, height against approved drawing (± tolerances per code or PO)
  • Nozzle locations, orientations, and flange ratings — critical for piping tie-in
  • Support saddle locations and bolt hole positions
  • Lifting lug locations and rated capacity (check SWL marking)
  • Nameplate data — design pressure, MAWP, temperature, material, serial number, ASME stamp
  • For heat exchangers: tube count, baffle spacing, pass partition orientation

Hydrostatic Test Witnessing

Witness the hydrostatic test as described in our separate article on hydrostatic testing. Confirm: test pressure gauge is calibrated, test pressure and hold duration meet specification, no leaks at MAWP after hold period, Authorized Inspector is present and signs off.

Documentation Handover at FAT

Before granting FAT acceptance, collect:

⚠

Do not grant FAT acceptance based on visual inspection alone if hydrostatic test and NDE are not yet complete. Once equipment is dispatched, returning it for rectification is costly and delays project schedule.

  • Form U-1 (Manufacturer's Data Report) — original or certified copy
  • Hydrostatic test certificate
  • Final RT/UT reports
  • As-built drawing (or commitment date for as-built)
  • Operation and maintenance manual
  • Spare parts list (gaskets, bolts, instrument connections)

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