You may know Zwirner Equipment as a provider of quality refurbished equipment that delivers the functionality you need at an affordable price. But you may wonder – what exactly does the term “refurbished” mean? In this article, we will discuss some of the basics of refurbishing equipment and why you can feel confident purchasing this equipment from an established manufacturing equipment reseller.
Refurbishment refers to the repair, restoration, and upgrade of pre-owned equipment, even models that may be somewhat worn out. When professionally done, the equipment is returned to a condition that closely resembles its original state. In some cases, refurbished equipment may offer enhancements, innovations, or new technologies to bring it up to date or to meet a manufacturer’s specific needs.
Did you know? At Zwirner Equipment, “refurbished equipment” and “reconditioned equipment” refer to the same quality processes and results.
Repair vs. Refurbishment
Both repair and refurbishment are used to return equipment to a fully functional state, but the two processes have important differences.
The repair process involves fixing or replacing specific problems or damage to a piece of equipment’s components. It targets the unique problem that resulted in the equipment’s malfunction or inoperability. Repairing the equipment will not meaningfully change its overall appearance or functionality.
Refurbishment, however, is more complex. The process includes a comprehensive evaluation, followed by restoration that is focused not only on fixing existing issues but also on improving overall appearance, performance, and functionality. This process often involves cleaning the equipment, replacing old parts, upgrading components to current standards and testing thoroughly to guarantee the equipment meets and adheres to all quality and safety standards.
Refurbished equipment provides several benefits to those needing machinery for their manufacturing process. These include:
Financial Savings: Refurbished equipment is often more affordable than new equipment and easier to purchase on a budget.
Minimal Downtime: Much of the used equipment on the market is sold “as-is”, but there are no guarantees they will operate or seamlessly fit into a specific production process. Refurbishing reduces potential downtime by guaranteeing a fully functional piece of equipment ready for installation and operation according to your specifications.
Environmental Sustainability: When older machines can be repurposed, the need to manufacture new machinery is reduced. This reduces the overall environmental impact by not consuming resources or disposing of old materials.
Protection Against Obsolescence: Some of the equipment on your floor may no longer be in production, making refurbishment a practical option that replaces your essential machinery without having to fit new equipment into an established process.
Upgraded Technology: When equipment is refurbished, it can be modified and upgraded to meet specific needs, integrating new technologies into older models.
Steps to Quality Refurbished Equipment
Not every piece of stainless-steel equipment will require the same level of restoration, but the following steps are considered standard:
Sandblasting exterior painted surfaces
Repairing/replacing any deteriorated steel
Pressure testing heat exchange surfaces
Polishing stainless steel parts and surfaces as required
Disassembly of mechanicals for inspection
Replacing the bearings, seals, elastomers, and any other worn parts
Electrical testing, leak testing, and functionality testing
Painting and finishing
In Summary: Reconditioned and Refurbished Equipment
When an essential piece of machinery wears out and must be replaced, refurbished equipment offers you a flexible and affordable alternative to purchasing new. You can be assured that the equipment has the features and functionality you need while seamlessly fitting into your production line. You can get a quality replacement for less money. And you can feel good about your choice, knowing that you gave new life to materials otherwise destined for disposal.
Call Zwirner Equipment today to learn more about our inventory of quality stainless steel refurbished equipment.
