Machine retrofitting without downtime

A recent example of machine relocation with an upgrade involves an ENGEL duo 35050/1500 WP from Rehau. The machine was relocated from northern to southern Germany and was modernized at the same time, as Leopold Praher, Managing Director of ENGEL Used Machinery, explains in an interview.

We are dealing with a very large machine here, which always requires meticulous logistical planning. What made this project unique was that the machine was not only being relocated but also fully upgraded from the ground up - all without any additional downtime.

The duo machine was built in 2009. The aim was to bring the machine up to date in terms of technology and energy efficiency. We also had the order to install a new plasticizing unit with a highly wear-resistant barrier screw to prepare the machine for new production requirements.

Rehau made the most of the opportunity offered by the machine's relocation. We renewed all hydraulic hoses and seals. Such extensive maintenance measures can be carried far more efficiently when the machine is already being disassembled. This way, the machine upgrade and relocation took place simultaneously, allowing the customer to save both time and money.

We carried out all modifications and retrofits during commissioning. In the end, the entire machine upgrade required no additional downtime. At ENGEL Used Machinery, we have dedicated technicians for these projects who work hand in hand with our local service teams. This ensures that all involved technicians have in-depth expertise in ENGEL products, which reduces time requirements and guarantees a high-quality retrofit.

As early as possible! This gives us the flexibility to optimize scheduling. Especially when multiple spare parts or - as in the case of Rehau - a new plasticizing unit are required, coordination is essential. This ensures that all necessary components for the machine retrofitting and maintenance are available on-site and on time.

As ENGEL Used Machinery, our mission is to extend the lifespan and utilization of machines, making a significant contribution to sustainability. Since ENGEL Used Machinery was founded, we have purchased, refurbished, and resold more than 130 machines. In addition, we have relocated numerous machines. We also offer storage solutions, for instance, when a machine is temporarily not needed but is intended to remain part of the company’s operations in the long run.

Around 40% of our projects involve system solutions, meaning machines with integrated robots. Another key are is plasticizing units. We always have a selection of almost new, pre-owned plasticizing units available at an attractive price. The advantage: these plasticizing units can be delivered very quickly.

Every machine and robot is thoroughly inspected and carefully refurbished in-house. Once a machine is sold, we can adapt it to individual requirements within a certain scope. Various standard upgrade options are available for adapting and modernizing machines. These include iQ products that prepare the systems for digitalization. Every customer receives a completely function-tested system from us.

The demand for used machines is very strong and we are experiencing growth. The main market for us is still Europe, but we are also expanding internationally. For example, we recently opened a subsidiary in Mexico and appointed an agent in North America. Meanwhile, we have sold machines to India and are currently evaluating the market in Southeast Asia.

One project that is especially close to my heart is in Ukraine. We facilitated the delivery of a packaging machine from Bahrain and supplied two additional used injection molding machines. These machines are helping the processor continue production.