CNC Machine Tool Retrofit Overview
CNC Machine Tool retrofit refers to the procedure of replacing and upgrading the existing components and hardware in a machining or assembly line machine tool to make the equipment compatible with computer numerical control (CNC) operations. Retrofits allow machining centers to be made to more modern, up-to-date, and accurate models. Upgrading aging equipment with CNC conversion can be cost effective and ensures a more streamlined and efficient production work-flow.
CNC Machine Tools are often retrofitted to either increase their overall capacity/parts/operations or upgrade older, mechanical parts with more modern CNC components. They are also a suitable option when upgrading brand and model specific controls, as some machines could be too obsolete, preventing cost effective repair or service.
Common Components of Machine Tool Retrofits
CNC retrofit components range in cost and complexity, depending on the machines mechanical, electrical and software components being parted out or replaced. CNC retrofit components of older machinery have become increasingly popular as manufacturers look for ways to increase productivity, decrease unnecessary labor costs and streamline production.
Common components of machine tool retrofits can include a series of mechanical upgrades for specific machines, such as the positioning table, linear guide rail or spindle motor, along with the CNC control system and its associated software, such as FANUC, Siemens, etc.
In addition to standard machine upgrades, companies may opt for other retrofit options such as turning additional functions into CNC operations; for example, a manual turret turning center could be retrofitted with a CNC upgrade, enabling more processes to be automated.
Benefits of Machine Tool Retrofitting
CNC machine tool retrofitting offers several advantages over buying a brand new machining center.
Firstly, opting for a CNC upgrade adds flexibility to a preexisting machine, allowing more components and processes to be integrated into a full CNC system. Notable benefits include an increase in accuracy and keeping a machining centers workload running up to speed, even if production numbers are down.
Retrofitting a machine with a CNC upgrade can be advantageous for companies who have modernized their lines and didn’t opt for a full CNC machine tool solution initially. Having a high quality CNC machine tool is essential for any modern organization or company.
Lastly, CNC retrofits have been shown to have a quick return on investment; on average, a CNC upgrade on an existing machine tool can increase productivity by 20-40% on a range of operations.
Conclusion
It is clear that there are numerous advantages to a CNC machine tool retrofit. Such modernizations reduce costs, increase productivity and efficiency, as well as offering an increase in accuracy for parts/operations. As the industry continues to evolve and modernize, machine tool retrofits are becoming more and more popular. Companies who stay ahead of the trends by retrofitting will no doubt remain competitive in the future.
