What To Know About Using Legacy Parts in Automation

In the world of technology, we tend to have the mindset that new is inherently better. Newness speaks of innovation, fresh ideas, and greater efficiency. But there is a value in taking care of the older things that we already have. That is the philosophy behind using legacy parts. If you’re ready to embrace the old, here is everything you need to know about using legacy parts in automation.

What Are Legacy Parts?

Legacy parts are used in machines that manufacturers no longer produce. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the parts have been recalled. Typically, it means the model of the machine that the part goes with isn’t being manufactured anymore, even if the machine is still commonly used by facilities.

Benefits of Using Legacy Parts

The primary benefit of purchasing legacy parts is that it helps your business save money. Replacing your entire automated equipment system takes hundreds of thousands of dollars. Legacy parts allow your facility to continue operating as normal even as you slowly begin introducing new equipment to your plant.

Having legacy parts on hand also helps prevent and mitigate equipment downtime. For older machinery—the type that would utilize legacy parts—downtime tends to be a more frequent occurrence. And because legacy parts can potentially be more difficult to find than their contemporary counterparts, procuring the legacy parts allows you to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

Meeting the Challenges of Using Legacy Parts

Naturally, using parts that are no longer being produced is not without its challenges, and of all the things to know about using legacy automation parts, knowing how to meet those challenges is one of the most important. As a business owner, you may worry about whether you will be able to continue finding the necessary parts. There are several ways to meet this challenge.

Being proactive is essential when using legacy parts. When you discover that the manufacturer is no longer making parts for your equipment, begin acquiring the parts you need to make repairs instead of waiting for a problem to arise. Keeping on top of preventative maintenance with these machines is especially important.

Finding a Legacy Parts Dealer

Another key way to avoid putting yourself in the position of not knowing where to get your legacy part is by finding a reputable legacy parts dealer. Numerous used-part dealers in the manufacturing world sell fake parts. Before choosing a dealership, call and ask them about their parts and do outside research for reviews on their authenticity.

If you’re looking for a legacy parts seller you can trust, look to Industrial Automation. We sell a variety of high-quality legacy parts, from servo drives to CNC spindle motors.