Retrofitting guarantees resource-saving sustainability
Plant- and maschine modernization, the so called retrofit, is the solution for many users, to give the machinery a "new life". New purchase or retrofit, part - or compline modernization - this decision depends on the economy. While the mechanic of the installation / machine is often still in a very sound state, electronics have to be frequently modernised and brought up to date. The automation and drive engineering does not comply with the state of the technology, perhaps it is susceptibly and the spare parts supply is very difficult or even not possible. The effectiveness as well as the energy efficiency does not comply to the current requirements. Running maintenance and energy costs (electricity, compressed air, gas, oil, etc.) increase the price of the production converted to one unit too much, therefore a competive production with the "old plant" is not possible. In those cases retrofit is more efficient than a new purchase. A rough rule of thumb says, that retrofitting is approx. 20 tp 65 per cent of the costs of a purchasing new plants depending on scope of work. Depending on scope of work of retrofit measures a functionality which is up to today´s level of technological standards can be achieved. The same apply with the safety and control in consideration of the existing directives and norms. Essential part of consistently retrofit is the re-engineering of the machine / productionplant with reference to cost-cutting measures, as energy efficiency drives as well as power saving sensoric and actuator technology. At the renewal of the electrical installation worn out parts are replaced by modern components and the installation is rebuilt according to the current requirements for operator protection. The documentation, above all the circuit diagrams and switching component lists, is within retrofits revised and if necessary replaced.
