What is a Site Acceptance Test (SAT)?

A Site Acceptance Test (SAT) is required to test a plant or machine supplied by the manufacturer. The SAT enables the customer to check whether the requirements are met and the machine is functional. The SAT is used to accept the plant or machine at the customer's site.

The main difference between a Site Acceptance Test (SAT) and a Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is the place and time of execution. The Site Acceptance Test is performed directly at the customer's site after a successful Factory Acceptance Test. It is used to ensure that the plant or machine has been properly installed and is operational. The Factory Acceptance Test is performed at the manufacturer's site before the respective plant or machine is delivered to the customer. The purpose of the FAT is to ensure that the customer's requirements are met.

1. Planning The planning of the site acceptance test includes the setup of the test environment, the definition of the test objectives and the selection of the test methods.

2. Preparation Preparation includes the installation and configuration of the system or machine to be accepted.

3. Execution The SAT typically includes several tests, such as those that test performance, functions, operability, and safety.

4. Documentation The results of the Site Acceptance Test are documented and evaluated to determine if everything meets the requirements.

5. Acceptance If the requirements are met, the system or machine is accepted by the customer. If the requirements are not met, corrective action is taken and the SAT is then run again until all requirements are met.

6. Completion After the SAT is completed, a report is prepared that summarizes the test results and provides a final evaluation.

1. Quality verification The SAT ensures that the requirements and specifications defined in advance are met.

2. Error detection The Site Acceptance Test makes it possible to detect and correct errors or problems at an early stage. This helps avoid costly and time-consuming repairs that could occur later in the operation.

3. Customer satisfaction The SAT is a way to increase customer satisfaction by ensuring that the plant or machine meets the customer's requirements.