Product sample
Identify the batch and include enough material for setup, tuning, sustained running, restarts and retained-product checks.
Representative inputs
Use product and packs that reflect normal production variation.
A carefully selected sample can hide the conditions that cause trouble in production. Include the normal range of piece size, bulk density, moisture, coating, fragility and batch variation. Supply the actual pouch, film, jar or container where the outlet and pack timing matter.
Target and tolerance
State each target weight, the agreed tolerance or legal/customer rule and how the check will be performed.
Pack and line conditions
Use the final opening, film or pouch where possible and identify the required finished-pack output and interfaces.
Trial record
Measure weight, output, product quality and line behaviour together.
| Test area | What to define | What to record |
|---|---|---|
| Weight control | Target, tolerance, scale, tare and sample method | Individual readings, mean, minimum, maximum, spread, rejects and giveaway |
| Output | Finished packs per minute and permitted normal stops | Sustained run, waiting time, bottleneck and recovery |
| Product quality | Acceptable damage, crumbs, coating loss or retained product | Before-and-after samples and visual inspection |
| Pack quality | Opening, fill presentation, seal, code and reject criteria | Finished packs and inspection result |
| Changeover | Named product/pack change and release standard | Parts changed, retained product, elapsed time and first acceptable pack |
| Fault recovery | Selected faults, reset authority and safe sequence | Witnessed stop, alarm, recovery and prevention of unbagged discharge |
Before the FAT
- Freeze the mechanical and control scope
- Agree the product, pack and acceptance method
- Confirm utilities and test equipment
- Identify supplied and simulated upstream/downstream equipment
- List documentation, training and witness requirements
After the FAT
- Record open actions and responsible party
- Retain weight and performance data
- Confirm software and recipe backups
- Agree site acceptance differences
- Protect the configuration during transport and installation
Site acceptance
Repeat the critical checks after installation where the real interfaces differ.
Site utilities, bulk feed, packer, layout and operators can change the result. The site test should focus on interfaces, safety, training, sustained production and the actions that could not be completed at the factory.
Prepare a trial
Send the sample list and proposed acceptance criteria.
Lancing can review whether the sample quantity, pack information and test plan are sufficient to support the buying decision.
Plan the trialBuyer questions
Frequently asked questions about this application.
How much product is needed for a trial?
The quantity depends on setup, target range, sustained run time, pack testing and changeover. It should be agreed before product is sent.
Should the FAT use the final pack?
Where practical, yes. The actual pouch, film, jar or opening can reveal discharge, spill and seal-zone issues.
What weight data should be retained?
Retain individual readings and summary statistics together with target, tare, scale, sample method, rejects and operating conditions.
Is factory acceptance the same as site acceptance?
No. Site acceptance confirms installation, real interfaces, utilities, operators and any conditions that could not be reproduced at the factory.
Related guidance
All guidesContinue through the relevant machine and buyer resources.
From FAT to site acceptance
Carry the same product, pack and measurement definitions into commissioning.
A factory result can only be compared with site performance when the product condition, target, pack, feed route, measurement method and acceptance calculation remain defined. The site test should additionally confirm utilities, interfaces, access, fault recovery and operator procedures.
What can change between FAT and SAT?
Bulk feed, product batch, environment, support, drop height, packer timing, check method, operator work and upstream/downstream faults can all change the observed result. Record each difference rather than assuming the factory setup has been reproduced.
Does the factory acceptance test prove packaged-goods compliance?
No. Commercial machine acceptance and legal packaged-goods compliance are different responsibilities. Where products are sold by weight or volume, the packer must determine the applicable UK requirements, suitable equipment and records. See the official GOV.UK packaged-goods guidance and seek appropriate Trading Standards or specialist advice.
Why should SAT include fault recovery?
A line can meet output during an uninterrupted run but lose control after a product shortage, pouch fault, bagger stop or emergency condition. Test agreed faults and safe restart so product and packs are handled predictably.
Which installation evidence should be approved first?
Use the installation and site-preparation guide to confirm layout, access, utilities, support and control boundaries before the site test is scheduled.