All the above are upgrades concerning multiple aspects - from automation to sensors, from software to maintenance of moving parts - which translate into concrete benefits for companies. Besides improved efficiency resulting from the "rejuvenation" of the warehouse, other factors are quite relevant, for example the availability of components, compatibility with new technologies, integration with new systems, improved diagnostics, increased safety and significant energy savings.
After a brief introduction on what revamping, retrofitting and technological upgrading can offer, we will focus on the latter. In particular, we will address the benefits that it can bring to a company and the conditions that need to be met to take advantage of the incentives provided by the Italian Industry 4.0 plan.
Revamping, retrofitting, and technological upgrading
Technological upgrading refers to the overhauling and adaptation of current equipment to the latest technologies. We are mainly talking about obsolete and discontinued equipment that is installed on systems and is now difficult to maintain. Often, in these cases, the terms "retrofitting" or "revamping" are also used, although in reality there are differences. Here is what sets them apart:
Revamping: indicates a "restructuring" of the system, even mechanical.
Technological upgrading (Retrofitting): refers to a more comprehensive operation, which also involves the automation or safety systems in order to achieve overall improvement in the efficiency and use of the machine itself.
Given its more than 65 years of experience, the Wipro Ferretto faces this issue daily, dealing with clients who at times have obsolete storage systems, sometimes even built and installed between the 1980s and 1990s. The question that arises in these cases is: should it be modernized or replaced with a new model? Experience shows that there are no right or wrong answers a priori; first of all, it is always necessary to assess the client's needs. Among the variables, we must consider, for example:
A complex and delicate operation
In any case, technological upgrading is a complex and delicate operation, because it is carried out on a functioning system. To reduce system downtime and ensure a successful result, improvisation must be avoided. On the contrary, it is necessary to establish a detailed plan and a schedule able to guarantee precise execution times. For this reason, thanks to the expertise in the field and specialization of its technicians, the Wipro Ferretto operates with specific schedules, including night or double shifts, in order to optimize the execution of the project according to the contingent needs of the customer.
The assessments to be carried out before proceeding with technological upgrading involve different aspects. One of the main drivers for a company to pursue change is the lack of components related to automation: it is quite possible, in fact, that some components may have been discontinued or have become difficult to find.
In all these cases, the first objective is to bring storage and automated systems up to par with current machines, eliminating obsolete parts and choosing solutions that translate into tangible benefits for companies.
The main advantages include:
Finally, here are some conditions that a technological upgrading project must meet in order to be eligible for the incentives provided by the Italian Industry 4.0 plan:
For further information on technological upgrading, retrofitting and revamping, as well as on how to benefit from the Italian Industry 4.0 plan, please contact us.
