Sample trials, FAT and acceptance
Use representative materials and observable criteria to prove the agreed packaging process.
Plan the application before selecting equipment
A sample trial checks whether a proposed process can handle the real product and packaging. FAT checks the completed equipment against the agreed scope before dispatch. Site commissioning and acceptance confirm the installed system with actual utilities, operators and connected equipment.
Use an agreed product and pack matrix. Include the smallest and largest formats, least stable container, difficult closure, widest or transparent label, product condition that changes flow or foaming and normal supplier variation.
Acceptance criteria should describe the method as well as the result. If fill, torque, label position, seal condition or output matters, record sample size, measuring equipment, product condition and run duration.
Information to prepare
- Production product in the expected condition
- Containers, closures, labels, films and outer packs
- Approved samples showing acceptable presentation
- Format matrix and intended change parts
- Measurement method and pass/fail rules
- Cleaning and changeover expectations
- Witness and sign-off roles
- Safe handling information
Match evidence to the project stage
Use the real product, pack and site conditions when completing the review.
| Requirement area | What to confirm | Useful evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Feasibility trial | Confirm product and pack handling, dosing, closure, label, seal or transfer principle. | Test conditions, setup, samples, observations and limitations. |
| Design review | Confirm layout, range, product path, access, utilities and interfaces. | Approved drawings, format schedule and responsibility list. |
| Factory acceptance test | Check the completed equipment against the agreed functional scope. | Test script, results, exceptions and punch list. |
| Site commissioning | Verify installation, utilities, safety interfaces, recipes and connected equipment. | Commissioning checks, settings and training record. |
| Production handover | Demonstrate the agreed result with production materials and operators. | Accepted samples, quality records and signed handover. |
Use a controlled test sequence
Prove one format at a time before continuous production. Record changes to guides, nozzles, sensors, recipes, temperature, speed or pressure so the accepted result can be reproduced.
Separate machine capability from material variation
Products and packaging change with temperature, storage, mixing and manufacturing tolerances. Retain samples and measurements that separate product, component, setup and machine causes.
Close actions before routine production
A punch list should identify owner, due date and effect. Items affecting safe use or the agreed acceptance result should be resolved before routine operation.
Related planning routes
- Specification guide — Define requirements first.
- Machine selector — Prepare product and pack information.
- Commissioning and training — Plan handover.
- Trial discussion — Send samples and acceptance requirements.
Buyer questions
Practical points to settle before machinery is selected
Is a sample trial the same as FAT?
No. A trial proves application feasibility or helps select a process. FAT checks the completed supplied equipment against the agreed scope.
Can water or a substitute product be used?
Sometimes for preliminary checks, but it may not represent viscosity, foaming, particulates, sealing contamination or cleaning. Record the limitation and test production product at an agreed stage.
What happens to rejected trial samples?
Agree how they are identified, retained, disposed of or returned, including product-safety and confidentiality requirements.
Who signs acceptance?
Authorised representatives for technical, production, quality and safety matters should be identified in the project plan.
Prepare a machinery enquiry
Send the product, pack formats, current method, target result and site information so Lancing can review the most suitable next step.
Send project details