Retrofit the Old Machine or Buy a New One?

For a machine whose control system is ageing there are two paths: renew the electrical and automation part (retrofit) or replace the machine entirely. The right choice depends on the machine's mechanical condition and future production needs.

When a retrofit makes sense

• The machine's mechanics (frame, slides, tooling, gearbox) are in good condition.
• The machine's capacity and precision are enough for today's production.
• The real problem is discontinued PLCs, HMIs or drives and spares that cannot be found.
• The machine is customised to the process and hard to replace one-to-one.

When a new machine makes sense

• Mechanical wear is advanced and precision has been lost.
• Production capacity or the product range has outgrown the machine.
• Meeting current safety requirements would need extensive mechanical changes.

Comparison

After a survey, ELKAR presents the retrofit and repair options with their costs; when a retrofit is chosen it carries out the PLC, HMI and drive changeover and commissioning.