Silo Dust Collector Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) Guide

1. Define the FAT Scope Before Production

The inspection and test plan should state which checks are document reviews, witness points, hold points or supplier records. A witness point allows production to continue if the buyer does not attend after proper notice. A hold point requires written release. Using these terms clearly prevents schedule disputes.

The FAT scope should identify the ordered model, filter area, body material, flange dimensions, voltage, frequency, control philosophy, fan duty when applicable, pulse-valve quantity, filter-media type and required accessories. If a requirement is not written in the order or approved drawing, it is difficult to enforce at final inspection.

2. Document Review

Start with documents because they define what the physical unit should be. Review the approved general arrangement, electrical schematic, bill of materials, motor and valve data, filter-media specification, coating system, welding requirements and packing instructions. Record approved deviations rather than relying on email memory.

• Confirm drawing revision and equipment tag.
• Match purchased components to the approved maker and model where specified.
• Check certificates that were contractually required.
• Confirm spare-parts quantities and document language.

3. Dimensional and Mechanical Inspection

Measure the mounting flange, overall height, access clearances, lifting points, inlet or outlet size and bolt-hole pattern. These dimensions have direct installation consequences. Cosmetic measurements that do not affect fit or function should not replace critical interface checks.

Inspect casing seams, weld continuity, sharp edges, distortion, door alignment, gasket compression and fastener installation. Open the clean-air chamber and confirm that filter bags or cartridges seat correctly. Check cage condition, venturi position, blow-pipe alignment and nozzle centering. A pulse nozzle aimed between filter elements can reduce cleaning effectiveness even when every valve operates.

4. Pulse-Cleaning System Test

Connect clean, dry compressed air at the agreed test pressure. Inspect the air header, regulator, drain, tubing and fittings for leakage. Trigger every solenoid valve individually and then run the automatic sequence. Record valve number, pulse duration, interval and controller output.

Header pressure should recover between pulses under the intended sequence. A successful click from the solenoid does not prove that the diaphragm valve delivered a useful pulse. Listen for inconsistent discharge, check wiring identification and verify that manual and automatic modes behave as specified.

5. Electrical and Control Checks

Confirm nameplate voltage and frequency before energizing. Check protective earthing, terminal tightness, cable identification, enclosure condition and motor overload settings. Where a fan is supplied, jog it briefly to verify rotation before continuous running.

Simulate available inputs such as high differential pressure, high level, fan fault or conveying permissive. Verify outputs and alarms against the approved control description. Components requested for a particular destination market should be checked by exact model number; a general statement that parts are 'international standard' is not enough.

6. Coating, Surface and Cleanliness

Confirm surface preparation and coating type from the purchase specification. Check colour, missed areas, runs, mechanical damage and dry-film thickness when contractually required. Internal surfaces, stainless-steel surfaces and areas hidden after assembly need their own acceptance criteria.

The clean-air chamber should be free of loose welding debris, abrasive media and metal fragments before filters are installed. Protective covers should keep rain and foreign material out during storage and shipping.

7. What the FAT Cannot Prove

A factory test without process dust cannot confirm final emission concentration, real differential pressure, condensation behaviour, silo pressure control or filter life. These depend on actual airflow, material properties, filling rate, humidity, installation and operating practice. They must be checked during site commissioning and early operation.

The FAT also does not replace a combustible-dust hazard review. Explosion protection, isolation, venting, electrical area classification and grounding must be determined for the actual material and installation by qualified parties.