Retrofit vs New: Upgrading Deep Hole Drilling Machines
I’ve worked on machines that were 40 years old and still drilling good holes, and I’ve worked on 5-year-old machines that were falling apart. Age isn’t the only factor in deciding whether to retrofit or replace. Here’s what I’ve learned about the decision. Why Retrofit A retrofit replaces the control system, drives, and sometimes the spindles of an existing machine while keeping the base structure — the bed, columns, and way systems. The idea is that the structural components are still sound, and the outdated parts are what’s limiting performance. ...