A retrofit essentially comprises ‘replacing the machine’s control’. Retrofits are generally executed at the customer’s location, saving downtime as well as transportation cost. Machines in good condition are best suitable for retrofits. Many of the components can be replaced or added, such as spindle motor and/or spindle drive, re-wire of the machine tool, and new feedback devices.
On other hand, a rebuild on a CNC machine tool generally comprises a retrofit apart from some mechanical work, but not a total remanufacture. Replacing or repairing ballscrews is quite common, as is repairing any specific item/part on the machine tool. On basis of the extent of work needed, rebuilds may be performed at the customer’s base or offsite - at rebuilders’ location.
Now, let’s follow what comes under remanufacture. A machine remanufacture comprises retrofitting and all such jobs necessary to bring back the machine to desired specification/condition. This mostly involves totally ‘stripping’ the machine - down to castings, hydraulics, coolant systems, lubrication. Tasks like replacing all bearings, rebuilding ballscrews come under remanufacturing that is invariably done off site and generally needs 3-6 months downtime.
To further enhance their machine tool’s efficiency and productivity, many firms choose to have CNC Engineering install additional accessories during a remanufacture, retrofit or rebuild. These can comprise additional axes for controlling rotary tables, lasers for tool setting, part probes or other machine tool accessories. This, as mentioned, further increases the machine’s capability and functionality.
Tags: CNC machine tool, machine remanufacture, machine tool retrofit
