With over 40 years of expertise in in-house development and the manufacturing of high-quality equipment, Contiweb stands as a benchmark for excellence. We produce certain critical components in-house, complemented by strategic partnerships with carefully selected suppliers for other essential parts. Meticulously choosing specific components from these specialized manufacturers, we maintain a readily available stock for swift replacement in case of defects. This ensures that you receive the precise components you need, accompanied by our unwavering support throughout the identification and replacement process.
Regrettably, similar to other machine manufacturers, Contiweb occasionally faces challenges when suppliers discontinue the production of components integrated into our machines, resulting in unavailability when you require them.
Component Obsolescence Factors
Component obsolescence arises from various factors. A significant contributor is the continuous advancement of technology, swiftly making older components outdated in comparison to new technologies offering improved performance and features. Changes in industry standards also contribute to obsolescence, as components adhering to outdated specifications may no longer be compatible with the latest protocols. This situation forces companies to upgrade or face consequences for non-compliance. Economic considerations come into play too, as manufacturers may discontinue components due to economic infeasibility, low demand, or the availability of more cost-effective alternatives. Supply chain disruptions, like shortages in crucial raw materials, can exacerbate component obsolescence. Legislative changes, addressing environmental standards, safety requirements, or data privacy, can make components obsolete, prompting the need for technology updates to comply with the latest legal requirements and avoid potential legal consequences.
Risks of Using Equipment with Obsolete Components
Using equipment with obsolete components poses a multitude of risks for printing companies.
• Increased Downtime: Companies using equipment with obsolete components face immediate and tangible risks, primarily the potential for heightened downtime, bringing production to a halt and amplifying the financial impact.
• Higher Maintenance Costs: The scarcity of obsolete components drives up prices in the primary and secondary market, significantly increasing maintenance costs. This financial strain disrupts budgetary plans and impacts overall profitability.
• Difficulty in Finding Replacements: As components become obsolete, finding exact replacements becomes an arduous task. Companies may invest substantial time and resources in identifying suitable alternatives or retrofitting machinery with newer components, leading to extended downtime and operational disruptions.
• Long-Term Reliability Concerns: The long-term reliability of machinery with obsolete components is a paramount concern. If critical parts fail and are challenging to replace, companies may face the prospect of significant capital investment in new equipment. This decision becomes not just a matter of addressing immediate concerns but a strategic choice that can shape the company's future competitiveness.
Proactive Maintenance Strategies
To ensure the ongoing reliability and performance of your machinery while minimizing potential risks associated with obsolete components, Contiweb has developed the proactive maintenance strategies outlined below.
Excelling in providing reliable solutions for obsolete components, Contiweb is adept at finding replacements. Each replacement undergoes rigorous testing to meet our high-quality standards, enabling quick and efficient exchanges when required. To mitigate the consequences of unexpected breakdowns, Contiweb suggests obtaining an Uptime Kit consisting of the most critical components, including one-to-one replacements for obsolete parts. Drawing on 40 years of experience, Contiweb can assemble a tailor-made Uptime Kit with spare parts suited specifically to your machines and your budget.
For other obsolete components, such as specific Lenze drives affected by environmental legislation, intricate modifications are necessary in case of failure. This process involves additional downtime and requires the presence of a Contiweb engineer on-site.
In its commitment to proactive maintenance and operational efficiency, Contiweb strongly recommends considering the exchange of obsolete components before they reach a critical breakdown point. The rationale behind this recommendation is twofold: first, certain obsolete components may necessitate a complex retrofit, involving intricate software programming and adjustments specific to the customer's machine. Furthermore, proactively undertaking this process allows for a smoother transition, as it can be planned and executed at a time most convenient for the printing company, thereby minimizing the risk of both extended downtime and sudden standstills.
Contiweb stands as a reliable partner
Obsolete components in printing machinery pose critical risks for companies, including increased downtime, higher maintenance costs, difficulties in finding replacements, and long-term reliability concerns. With over 40 years of expertise, Contiweb acknowledges these challenges and stands as a reliable partner. Through proactive maintenance strategies, we empower printing companies to navigate the complexities of obsolete components. For questions, support, or recommendations, please don't hesitate to contact Contiweb.
