Upgrading an industrial space is a big job, and often, it’s a complex task that requires a lot of investment. This investment comes in the form of both time and money, and some projects can become a major financial burden when things like motors need to be replaced. The good news is that you can save on many upgrades by retrofitting existing equipment instead of replacing.

Retrofitting means utilizing the equipment that you have and simply upgrading certain components, like electrical motors, to modernize and improve efficiency. Many engineers and manufacturing professionals order induction motors from manufacturer ARC Systems Inc. when a retrofit project calls for three-phase induction motors or custom induction motors. As an induction motor manufacturer specializing in AC induction motors and related technologies, ARC Systems Inc. is available to provide affordable, precision-engineered solutions to retrofit industrial sites without the costs that come along with traditional replacement.

A Retrofit May Bring Things Up To Code

Another benefit of using the retrofit approach is that the process can often bring sites and equipment up to code without the hassle or expense of replacement. The simple fact is that technology is always evolving, and the technology and installation methods used when your facility was built have likely changed along with the standards required of industrial facilities. If you’re still relying on outdated technology and systems, they may still get the job done just fine, but they may also be in violation of various building and safety codes

Code violations can carry stiff penalties, and they can also serve as a liability that may lead to accidents and injuries. Retrofitting things like motors, electrical systems and water delivery systems can not only improve performance and efficiency, but it may also bring your facility and equipment up to code without the time and financial investments required in traditional replacement. Not only does this protect your facility from fines, but it also protects workers and visitors.

Retrofitting Makes Future Upgrades Easier

When you go the replacement route, you’re more likely to be locked into replacements in the future. Because an entirely new system or piece of equipment gets installed during replacement, your production is often tied to that change. Retrofitting means you’re only changing out certain components, and these can be further upgraded down the road while your facility is still able to utilize existing equipment and systems. This is a huge competitive advantage as well since retrofitting means you’re able to swap out components to take advantage of the latest in technology early and often.

Less Time Invested In Learning

A retrofit may also mean less time spent learning new equipment and systems. When a piece of equipment is replaced, you and your employees and coworkers will have to take the time to learn how things operate, how to safely use the equipment and more. This can not only lead to downtime in terms of production, but it can also cause a slowdown in production as everyone gets used to the new ways of doing things. This is made all the more apparent if a new piece of equipment requires a complete overhaul in processes and procedures.

Retrofitted equipment and systems usually rely on the established methods of operation. After all, a retrofit is only switching out components, not replacing things entirely. Therefore, your facility will likely be able to continue operations with minimal disruption after a retrofit, and less time will be required to learn how things operate. Essentially, the only things changing are operations that take place “behind the scenes”. For the most part, retrofitting components like AC induction motors won’t change anything in your day-to-day operations.