Header image: an illustrative switchgear assembly and inspection-preparation scene, not a photograph of a witnessed factory acceptance test.
A switchgear factory acceptance test (FAT) checklist should identify the equipment being accepted, the approved documents, the agreed inspections and tests, and the evidence needed for release. It should be agreed before the factory visit. A generic checklist cannot replace the contract, applicable standards or the approved test procedure.
This buyer’s checklist helps procurement teams and project engineers define acceptance scope. The exact procedures, test levels and acceptance limits belong in the approved inspection and test plan for the selected assembly.
Separate FAT, routine verification, type/design verification and SAT
- FAT is a contractual acceptance stage at the factory. The agreed scope can include document review, inspection, functional demonstrations and witnessing specified tests.
- Routine verification or routine tests concern the manufactured equipment under its applicable standard and procedure. Which records are reviewed or witnessed at FAT must be agreed.
- Type tests or design verification address a defined equipment design. A report must be checked for its tested configuration and applicable scope; it is not automatically a report for every supplied panel.
- Site acceptance testing (SAT) concerns the installed equipment and project interfaces. A completed FAT does not establish that transport, installation and commissioning checks are complete.
1. Define the switchgear factory acceptance test scope
- Identify the purchase order, equipment schedule, panel tags and serial numbers where available.
- List the approved drawings, revisions, technical schedule and applicable specifications.
- Agree witness/hold points, attendance, notice periods and required records.
- Identify deviations, exclusions, unresolved design points and who can authorize release.
2. Review documents for the offered configuration
Check the single-line diagram, general arrangement, schematics, terminal plans, bill of materials and nameplate schedule against the order. Reconcile device models, CT/VT ratios where applicable, control supplies, metering, protection settings responsibilities and communication interfaces.
Review relevant verification or test reports for their equipment type, rating, construction and limitations. A certificate or report for a different product family does not close a requirement for the supplied lineup. Record missing or mismatched documents as explicit actions.
3. Inspect construction and project interfaces
- Panel identification, visible condition, dimensions and lineup arrangement.
- Installed component types and ratings against the approved schedule.
- Cable-entry arrangements, termination space, terminal identification and agreed accessories.
- Earthing provisions, barriers, covers and the agreed enclosure arrangement.
- Withdrawable-unit identification, positions and compatibility where that construction is supplied.
Use the approved inspection plan to decide what evidence is required. Photographs can support the record, but a photograph alone does not establish a concealed connection, test result or verified enclosure rating.
4. Witness the agreed functional checks and tests
Identify the specified switching sequences, interlocks, indications, alarms, control functions and protection or communication interfaces. Record which functions are demonstrated using the actual equipment and which require simulation or later site integration.
Electrical tests must follow the approved procedures, suitable equipment and authorized personnel. The test report should identify the equipment, method, applicable limits, measured result and outcome. Do not copy a voltage level, duration or pass value from an unrelated cabinet or online checklist.
For medium-voltage withdrawable switchgear, low-voltage withdrawable switchgear and package substations, the equipment boundary and relevant procedures differ. A single generic test list should not imply that identical tests apply to every assembly and component.
5. Close the punch list and agree release
| Record | Buyer’s check | Closure evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection/test item | Equipment tag, drawing revision and agreed acceptance requirement. | Dated inspection or test record with result. |
| Nonconformity or open item | Clear description, responsible party and agreed action. | Correction record and reinspection/retest where required. |
| Dispatch release | Outstanding-item status and authorized release decision. | Accepted release document and agreed exceptions. |
| Handover package | Required drawings, reports, manuals and packing records. | Document index, revisions and delivery status. |
Do not treat an attendance signature as acceptance of every unresolved item. Record whether each point is closed, accepted with a stated condition, or still blocking release under the contract.
6. Keep factory release separate from site readiness
Confirm packing, section identification, shipment splits, loose items, storage instructions and the required handover documents. Record transport or installation interfaces that remain with the site team. Site inspection, installation verification and commissioning follow the project plan after delivery.
A practical FAT request to include with your enquiry
“Please propose an inspection and test plan for the attached equipment schedule, identifying applicable procedures, records, witness/hold points, notice periods, exclusions and the process for closing outstanding items before dispatch.”
Send this with the switchgear enquiry checklist and selected product scope. If the specification mixes network voltage and equipment ratings, first review 10 kV systems versus 12 kV switchgear. Use the project enquiry page to provide the agreed documents and inspection requirements.
References and scope
The sources below explain general engineering terms and inspection practice. Product ratings on this website come from the corresponding model documentation; another manufacturer’s catalogue does not establish Kaiyue equipment ratings.