January 12th, 2024

Refurbishing Legacy Automation Products

​Refurbishing legacy automation products can indeed be a viable strategy to mitigate the impact of inflation and long delays in obtaining original equipment manufacturer (OEM) products. Here are some potential benefits and considerations:
Benefits:

1. Cost Savings:
   
   • Refurbishing existing equipment can often be more cost-effective than purchasing new ones.
   • It eliminates the need for substantial capital investments in entirely new automation systems.
2. Reduced Downtime:
   
   • Refurbishment typically takes less time than waiting for new products to be delivered, reducing downtime.
   • You can address issues promptly without waiting for extended lead times from OEMs.
3. Customization:
   
   • Refurbishing allows you to customize the equipment to meet your specific needs and requirements.
   • Upgrades and modifications can be implemented during the refurbishment process.
4. Sustainability:
   
   • Extending the life of existing equipment aligns with sustainability goals by reducing waste and environmental impact.

Considerations:

1. Expertise and Resources:
   
   • Ensure you have the necessary technical expertise and resources to refurbish the equipment effectively.
   • Access to skilled personnel or partnering with refurbishment specialists may be required.
2. Compatibility and Obsolescence:
   
   • Assess whether the legacy equipment can still meet current and future operational needs.
   • Consider potential issues related to the obsolescence of components or technologies.
3. Safety and Compliance:
   
   • Ensure that the refurbished equipment complies with safety standards and regulations.
   • Upgrades may be necessary to meet current safety and compliance requirements.
4. Long-Term Viability:
   
   • Evaluate whether refurbishing is a short-term solution or if it can provide a viable long-term strategy.
   • Consider the future availability of spare parts and ongoing support for the refurbished equipment.
5. Total Cost of Ownership:
   
   • While initial refurbishment costs may be lower, consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and ongoing support.

In summary, refurbishing legacy automation products can be a practical solution to address challenges posed by inflation and delays. However, careful consideration of technical, financial, and operational aspects is essential to ensure that it aligns with your organization's goals and requirements.