Operating method
Train normal start, stop, refill, first-off check, routine inspection and response to common faults. Identify actions that require engineering support.
Acceptance and handover guide
Jar capper FAT, SAT and commissioning: prove the machine against the agreed pack.
Factory and site acceptance should test the supplied configuration under documented conditions. The aim is not a ceremonial sign-off; it is a shared record of samples, settings, output, defects, changeovers, interfaces and outstanding actions.
Use production evidence. Final machine selection and acceptance depend on representative jars, lids, process conditions and agreed checks.
Agree before the test
Write the acceptance plan before samples reach the machine.
The plan should identify the approved formats, process condition, operator roles, run duration, output basis, quality methods, permissible interruptions and evidence required for sign-off. Undefined acceptance creates disagreement after the machine is built.
| Acceptance item | Define in advance | Record during the test |
|---|---|---|
| Sample set | Jar and lid part numbers, batches, condition, fill or test medium and quantity. | Samples actually used, deviations, rejected components and retained references. |
| Output | Good packs over an agreed run, staffing, replenishment and planned stops. | Start/finish time, good count, rejects, stoppage cause and recovery. |
| Closure quality | Torque, vacuum, button, cap-height, leak, visual or engagement method and timing. | Instrument, sample plan, results, failures, teardown findings and disposition. |
| Changeover | Formats to be changed, starting condition, tools, operator and completion criteria. | Steps, settings, parts, time, first-off checks and any adjustment required. |
| Interfaces | Signals, conveyor transfers, accumulation, emergency stops and fault states. | Tested scenarios, response, reset method and open integration actions. |
Factory acceptance test
Use FAT to prove the configured machine before dispatch.
FAT is most valuable when the machine is presented in the agreed supply condition with representative jars, lids, tooling, guards and software. It should show how the normal cycle starts, stops and recovers, not only a short uninterrupted demonstration.
Test the smallest, largest and most difficult approved formats where the contract requires them. Include cap replenishment, low-level conditions, jar starvation, downstream blockage and routine reset scenarios relevant to the supplied controls. Record changes made during FAT and whether a repeat test is required.
Site acceptance test
Prove the installed system in the real line environment.
SAT begins after the equipment is positioned, connected, checked and safe to operate. Confirm line height, flow direction, access, utilities, extraction or services, upstream/downstream signals and the actual production component supply.
Where product or hot-fill conditions materially affect the closure, the site run should use the approved process or a formally agreed equivalent. The pack owner remains responsible for product, food-safety, thermal-process and shelf-life validation; machine acceptance does not replace those controls.
Record any site dependency that prevents completion, such as unavailable product, unstable incoming jars, incomplete controls or missing utilities, and assign a clear owner and retest method.
Commissioning and training
Transfer the approved setup into a controlled production routine.
Changeover method
Label change parts, record settings, verify tool use and require a first-off closure check before production release.
Maintenance handover
Review cleaning boundaries, inspection points, lubrication where specified, wear parts, backup settings and escalation routes.
Commissioning should finish with an agreed status: accepted, accepted with listed actions, or awaiting a defined retest. Avoid open-ended notes such as “machine to be improved” without a measurable completion criterion.
Handover record
Keep the approved samples, settings and results together.
- Signed requirement and supply-boundary document
- Final format matrix and sample identification
- Machine configuration, software or recipe reference and change-part list
- FAT and SAT results, defects, stoppages and open-action log
- Closure-quality records with test method and measurement timing
- Training attendance and operator/maintenance responsibilities
- Final layout, utilities, interface notes and site-specific risk controls
- Recommended maintenance and spare-parts information supplied with the machine
Prepare the machine and the site together
Use the site-preparation guide and procurement specification guide before agreeing the acceptance test.
Discuss an acceptance scope with LancingBuyer questions
Questions about acceptance and handover guide.
What is the difference between FAT and SAT?
FAT tests the configured equipment before dispatch. SAT tests the installed system in the customer’s site environment, including utilities, transfers, interfaces and the agreed production condition.
Which jars and lids should be used for FAT?
Use the formats identified in the contract and acceptance plan, including challenging approved samples where required. Record part numbers, batches and any deviation from production material.
Should a FAT use headline machine speed?
The test should use an agreed good-pack output basis and defined run conditions. A short isolated cycle does not prove sustained production performance.
Who owns the closure acceptance criteria?
The pack owner should define the required torque, vacuum, leak, cap-height, button or other release method, with Lancing confirming how the machine trial will demonstrate it.
Can commissioning replace operator training?
No. Commissioning proves and adjusts the installed process; training transfers the approved operating, changeover, inspection and fault-response methods to the nominated team.