Retrofit - How to Bring Technology Tradition into the Modern Age
DVS Technology Group examines why modernization can be worthwhile in some cases instead of purchasing a new grinding machine.
There are more than 2,000 Diskus Werke machines on shop floors around the world.
At some point, the question will arise whether it's time to replace or retrofit a machine tool. However, a new machine acquisition comes with considerable costs. There are many reasons a new machine purchase may not be the best solution:
- The mechanics used are not outdated and could continue to be used without problems.
- Employees would have to be retrained on a new machine.
- The spatial conditions are adapted to the existing machine and could only be changed with great effort.
The Advantages of a Retrofit
A retrofit involves bringing up technical standards by adding new components and overhauling a machine tool. This applies to the control, drive and automation systems, as these are often outdated after decades of use.
Operator safety is an important consideration. Shop floor regulations are much different today than they were when the machines were originally installed. A risk assessment can determine that such a machine must be retrofitted according to the law. With retrofitting, the company and the operator are literally on the safe side.
Industry 4.0 Solutions
The basis for Industry 4.0 is the collection of data and the networking of machines via the Internet of Things. It is not always necessary to invest in new grinding machines to implement these technologies.
A cost-effective solution can be to upgrade existing machines. For this purpose, these machines must be equipped with additional sensors and communication interfaces. In this way, it is possible to record and analyze production data as well as network and communicate between the machines.
