Yes. Most Indian machine makers will run a trial before dispatch for you, your engineer or an inspector you appoint. The trial is your best chance to find problems while the machine is still at the factory and the maker can fix them.
The trial only protects you if its scope is agreed in advance. Write the tests, the test part and the pass criteria into the purchase contract.
What a good trial covers
- A check that the machine matches the agreed specification, including controller, motors, accessories and safety devices.
- Geometric accuracy tests, and for CNC machines positioning accuracy tests, with signed reports.
- A run at different spindle speeds and feeds, checking noise, vibration and temperature rise.
- A test cut on your own part or a standard test piece, with the part measured and the results recorded.
- Function tests of every guard, interlock, emergency stop and safety device.
- A check of manuals, electrical drawings, parameter backups and the spare parts list.
Attending in person or remotely
Attending in person gives you the clearest view. You can see the workshop, talk to the engineers and judge the build quality yourself. It also suits complex machines and lines.
If travel is not practical, an independent inspector can attend for you with a checklist you approve. Some buyers also join a live video call during key tests. Video helps, but it cannot replace someone measuring parts on the spot.
Whoever attends should have the authority to accept the machine or list defects. A clear, signed list of open points at the end of the trial avoids arguments later about what was agreed.
Tie the trial to payment
Make the balance payment, or the dispatch instruction, depend on a successful trial. If the machine fails a test, the maker fixes it and repeats the test before shipping. Our article on machinery payment terms shows how buyers structure this.
For larger machines and lines, the trial is often formalised as a factory acceptance test, followed by a site acceptance test after installation. Our article on FAT and SAT explains both stages.
Preparing for the trial
- Send your test part drawing and material early, so the maker can prepare the tooling and program.
- Agree the measuring instruments and who supplies them, and ask for their calibration certificates.
- Agree how long the machine will run before the test, so warm-up effects are covered.
- Ask for the machine to be fully assembled with all guards and accessories fitted, not partly built.
- Agree how failures are handled, including who pays for a repeat visit if the machine is not ready.
Next step
We draft the trial checklist, attend the trial, measure the test parts and send you a written report with photos and videos. To arrange a trial for your machine, book a free sourcing review.