For heavy‑duty CNC vertical lathes designed for oversized disc‑type workpieces, the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is a full technical performance verification carried out inside the manufacturer's plant. The test validates mechanical rigidity, axis accuracy, functional accessories and real cutting performance before shipment. The FAT specification must strictly follow the technical agreement confirmed by the buyer and the machine builder.
All test conditions need to be locked before inspection begins. Technicians confirm workpiece material, machining processes, measuring instruments and permissible tolerance ranges. Every test item cannot be changed arbitrarily once the FAT procedure starts.
Inspection starts with physical configuration and visual quality check. Engineers examine the overall assembly condition, surface protection, wiring labels and maintenance accessibility. Safety interlock switches, protective doors and lubrication pipelines are visually checked to eliminate obvious assembly defects before power‑on.
Power‑on no‑load testing is used to verify the kinematic performance of the vertical lathe. The rotary table accelerates and decelerates within its speed range. X‑axis and Z‑axis travel to limit positions repeatedly to test stroke, soft limits and safety protection. Auxiliary units including coolant systems and automatic lubrication run through full working cycles.
Value‑added custom modules require independent functional testing. Power milling heads, automatic tool changers and special control cycles run simulation programs. Technicians observe vibration, noise and response status of each optional component during operation.
The core technical assessment relies on trial‑piece machining. Operators execute complete CNC turning cycles: facing, outer‑diameter turning, boring, grooving and milling operations according to the test program. After machining, inspectors measure key dimensional data as defined in the FAT plan to judge the machine's actual processing capability.
All test results are collected into a formal FAT record form. The document lists measured values, non‑conformity items and rectification status. After all defects are fixed and re‑checked, the machine obtains the approval for packaging and delivery. Online remote witnessing is available for overseas customers.
When the technical FAT is finished, the machine enters transport protection procedures. Operators remove machining residues, protect precision surfaces with anti‑rust agent and fix movable assemblies against vibration damage in transit. Accessories, tool kits and operation handbooks are packed separately.
It is important to distinguish FAT and SAT. FAT verifies machine performance at the factory. Site Acceptance Test will re‑validate accuracy after installation and leveling at the end‑user workshop.
If your workshop needs reliable equipment for heavy‑duty rotary part production, explore our vertical lathe and vertical turning milling machine. For every separate industrial project, the FAT test program should be customized together with technical specifications and test‑piece drawings.