Replacing equipment is not always the smartest option for your business. In many cases, retrofitting can substantially extend the service life of equipment, while cutting investment costs and reducing environmental impact. TCM took precisely this approach with its customer by upgrading their underground waste collection containers instead of simply replacing them.
Requirement
Following a pilot phase to validate an initial prototype, the customer wanted to develop a standardised reinforcement solution that could be retrofitted to multiple existing containers. The goal was to improve the equipment’s structural integrity whilst minimising downtime.
Engineering approach
This project was about more than simply repairing parts. The TCM teams applied the lessons learned from the prototyping phase, modified the reinforcement kits, defined the manufacturing methods, planned the mechanical welding operations and then organised the on-site work to ensure consistent quality.
Manufacturing and quality control
The reinforcement kits, which comprised several components, were prepared, modified, welded, and then galvanised to ensure exceptional durability in an outdoor environment. Checks were carried out after each operation before delivering the kits to the site.
On-site work
The on-site work was organised to minimise container downtime as far as possible. The customer’s lifting equipment was used to quickly install the reinforcement kits so that the containers could be returned to service as soon as possible.
Benefits for the customer
This project extended the equipment’s service life, cut costs compared to replacing all the containers, and maximised the availability of the facilities.
TCM expertise
This project shows that a carefully planned retrofit can be an effective alternative to systematically replacing equipment. TCM’s provides comprehensive support encompassing design, manufacturing and on-site work to develop long-term solutions tailored to its customers’ specific needs.
This project exemplifies TCM’s capacity to analyse a need, design a customised solution, validate a prototype, produce standardised parts and complete all the on-site work. This end-to-end support and expertise set the company apart in the field of special machines, retrofitting and industrial maintenance.
Why opt for a retrofit?
- Reduce costs
- Extend equipment service life
- Minimise downtime
- Make optimal use of existing facilities