Press Line Controls Retrofits

Computer hardware, software, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) function together as the “central control” system of press lines. However, these systems become obsolescent when replacement parts are no longer obtainable. By performing a retrofit of the obsolescent controls equipment to newer supported equipment, the life of the press line can be greatly extended as the mechanical systems have a much longer life cycle.

The challenge is how to replace these systems without interrupting or impacting existing operations. Brock has performed press line retrofits with zero downtime to several press lines, including compact crossbar presses, traditional mechanical presses, and hydroforming and sheet hydroforming presses.

Our zero downtime approach includes:

• I/O emulation that enables complete testing of the new controls equipment prior to installation
• Customer “test drive” of the system or Factory Acceptance Test (FAT)
• A parallel installation to the existing system that is reversible

Contact us to learn more about our zero downtime approach for press line controls retrofits.