Retrofit – the Alternative

Compared with buying a new system, the investment volume of the retrofit is - depending on the volume of modernisation-only 20 to 60 percent.

Depending on the type of line and integration in operational sequences - because of saving of time and further synergy effects - the investment in modernisation turns out to be profitable in a short period of time.

When deciding if buying a new system or retrofit, efficiency is a key role. In case of older machines, especially the mechanics is still in good to very good condition. Therefore, only the change of the automation is necessary in order to max the power reserves and to update the machine. Here, the change of the SPS is the most important part. In case of a defect, with older or exotic types it is very difficult or impossible to resort to spare parts. This would result in a shutdown time of several weeks. In case of a retrofit to the current SPS technology and ONEconcept, this risk is minimized.

Another advantage is the modernisation of the operating structure by installing a modern operator panel. The often existing „button control" with large operator panels is timely replaced by the monitor solution ONEoperate. With the preadjustment of diverter parameters and the access to a recipe database, a more efficient line control is reached. A further advantage is the possibility to integrate the line in other systems by means of a bus technology. Hereby, the technical preconditions are created in order to collect and file important production and manufacturing data.