How to Know When Your Machinery Needs to be Reconditioned
release date: 07/11/2016
tags: Machine Maintenance
All machinery needs to be reconditioned from time to time. Regardless of use, the wear-and-tear of production, time, and humidity all take a toll on equipment, and periodic adjustments are necessary to keep your machines running at full pace. Protech International specializes in reconditioning machinery for use, repurposing, or resale. Here’s how to know when it’s time for a tune-up.
What is Reconditioning?
Reconditioning is generally defined as the overhaul or repair of an existing piece of equipment or machine. When a machine has been reconditioned it’s meant to have been returned as closely as possible to its original state.
The process can include everything from an extensive service inspection, recalibration of sensitive parts, and even total replacement of specific pieces. Reconditioning is usually completed by an experienced, objective repairer but can also be done in-house when the tools and expertise are available.
In the machining industry, “reconditioned” machines are typically superior in quality to “refurbished” machines, but the difference is minute. Some facilities use the terms interchangeably.
When Should You Recondition Your Machine?
There is no specific timeline for reconditioning because its need totally depends on the type of equipment, the use of said equipment, and the desired outcome. Since repairing equipment periodically can help restore its use for a limited period of time, many manufacturers choose to totally recondition equipment once it’s undergone several extensive, time-consuming repairs.
Another sign that reconditioning is necessary is a breakdown of function. Unlike a repair – designed to fix one or two specific parts of a machine – reconditioning is preferred when the entire machining process has become cumbersome and wrought with problems. In a heated plate press, for example, reconditioning might be considered once the heating element, the lift table, and the lever mechanism all begin to fail simultaneously.
Questions About Reconditioning Machinery?
Protech International is most commonly called in to recondition a machine before its sale. Used equipment is most marketable when it’s in prime condition, and buying a reconditioned machine is second-best to buying brand new. When an experienced, trusted repair technician like those at Protech have reconditioned a machine, sellers generally have an easier time finding a buyer and moving through the inspection process smoothly.
Unsure whether or not it’s time to recondition your equipment? Contact one of Protech’s skilled engineers today to talk through the process and find out how reconditioning can actually save you money. You’ll be glad you did.