Retrofit, rebuild and remanufacture are often terms that are used interchangeably. But each is slightly different, and understanding those differences can help ensure you get the best work to meet your specific needs.
Grinder Retrofit
A grinder retrofit entails adding one or more components to a grinder to expand its capabilities. Examples include a servo drive transmission, an automatic infeed unit or a wide range of automation options. A grinder retrofit is usually the answer if there are one or two areas that need updating on a machine that’s otherwise in good shape.
Benefits of a retrofit include:
- Lower cost than a full remanufacture or purchase of a replacement machine
- Minimized downtime -- work can be completed on your shop floor
- Increased machine capability, reliability and accuracy
- Extended machine life
A grinder retrofit also eliminates the learning curve for the operator who will still be familiar with the overall functioning of the machine and controls.
Also Read: The Benefits of Upgrading Your Grinder with a Retrofit
Grinder Rebuild
A grinder rebuild is basically the next step past a retrofit. It’s a good choice when a machine shows signs of advanced wear and tear, such as:
- Higher scrap rates
- Lower part quality
- Slower production rates
- Increased maintenance costs
During a grinder rebuild, a machine will be completely disassembled, with every component and assembly documented and inspected. Parts still in working order will be carefully cleaned, hand scraped and repainted, while components in poor shape will be replaced. The base will be sandblasted, cleaned and repainted, and then everything will be reassembled.
A rebuild will frequently result in a better-than-new machine, offering significant improvements in efficiency and production over the original unit.
Grinder Remanufacture
Remanufacturing services represent a combination of a rebuild and a retrofit – the machine is disassembled and rebuilt from the ground up, and new components are added to expand the grinder’s capabilities to create a robust, modern grinding cell.
Additions can include a wide variety of upgrades and accessories, like:
- GCH ball screw
- Linear guide rails (antifriction)
- Rotary dressers
- Chillers
- Gaging systems
- Coolant filtration systems
- Automation
Remanufacturing services usually make sense when increasing customer demand requires higher performance levels or greater productivity. Sometimes, when a shop needs to add a machine, they’ll choose to custom order a remanufactured grinder rather than a brand new one.
But how can you know which makes the most sense for your operation – a grinder retrofit, rebuild or remanufacture?
Backed by years of real-world experience, the professionals at GCH Machinery can assess your situation and recommend the right plan for your grinder. We review your entire operation and recommend the course of action that best fits your shop’s needs.
Check out our capabilities for a wide range of grinding machines:
- Centerless grinding machines
- Surface grinders
- Double disc grinders
- ID grinders
- OD/cylindrical grinders
- Microcentric grinders
Contact us today to talk to one of our experts about your grinding requirements.