What we do:
Equipment remanufacturing is a comprehensive process that restores used industrial machinery to like-new condition, extending its lifespan, improving performance, and reducing costs compared to purchasing new equipment. Great Lakes Finishing Equipment, Inc., based in South Elgin, Illinois, specializes in remanufacturing abrasive blast equipment, aqueous wash systems, and vibratory finishing machines, offering tailored solutions for industries like automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication. With over 40 years of experience, their 842 Schneider Drive facility provides expert services, including troubleshooting, mechanical and electrical upgrades, and full system overhauls, ensuring equipment meets modern performance and safety standards. Below, we detail the key steps involved in their equipment remanufacturing process.
The remanufacturing process begins with a thorough evaluation of the equipment’s condition. Great Lakes Finishing’s technicians inspect components for wear, damage, or obsolescence, identifying parts that need repair, replacement, or upgrading. The equipment is then disassembled, with each component—such as motors, bearings, belts, and electrical systems—carefully cataloged to ensure accurate reassembly. This step involves cleaning parts using methods like sandblasting or ultrasonic cleaning to remove rust, debris, or old coatings, preparing them for further analysis. For example, a blast cabinet’s media delivery system might be disassembled to assess nozzle wear or reclaim inefficiencies.
Once disassembled, worn or damaged components are repaired or replaced with high-quality, OEM-specified parts. Great Lakes Finishing’s in-house capabilities include CNC machining, welding, and fabrication, allowing them to refurbish parts like blast wheels, pump assemblies, or vibratory bowls to original specifications. For instance, in abrasive blast equipment, they may replace worn neoprene linings or upgrade reclaimers (e.g., Empire-style 600 CFM units) with new 1/4-inch liner wearbands. Electrical systems are modernized with updated controls, sensors, or PLCs to enhance automation and compliance with current safety standards, such as OSHA or NFPA requirements.
Remanufacturing goes beyond restoration by incorporating upgrades to improve efficiency and functionality. Great Lakes Finishing integrates advanced technologies, such as automated wet blast cabinets or energy-efficient motors, to align equipment with modern production demands. For aqueous wash systems, they may add stainless steel construction or advanced filtration to enhance durability and reduce maintenance. Control systems are upgraded to intuitive interfaces, increasing operator efficiency and precision. These enhancements, as seen in their work with vibratory deburring equipment, ensure compatibility with Industry 4.0 standards, including data analytics for process monitoring.
After repairs and upgrades, the equipment is meticulously reassembled. Great Lakes Finishing’s technicians ensure precise alignment and calibration, such as adjusting gibs or bearing bores in blast systems to meet OEM tolerances. The remanufactured equipment undergoes rigorous testing in simulated operating conditions, replicating high temperature, vibration, or humidity to verify performance. Automated test stations, similar to those used by Rockwell Automation, confirm that each component functions as designed. For example, a remanufactured Clemco blast system might be tested for consistent media flow and pressure, ensuring reliable surface preparation.
The final stage involves applying protective coatings, such as powder coating or neoprene linings, to enhance durability and corrosion resistance. Great Lakes Finishing conducts comprehensive quality checks, including dimensional inspections and performance evaluations, to ensure the equipment meets or exceeds original specifications. A permanent record of the remanufacture is maintained, and updated service manuals are provided. The company offers warranties, typically 12 months, mirroring industry standards like those of Nidec Press & Automation, ensuring long-term reliability and customer confidence.
Great Lakes Finishing, founded in 2001 by Tom Milo and Rick Nowak, emphasizes USA-made products and services, leveraging a centrally located facility for rapid delivery. Their expertise in abrasive blast, aqueous wash, and vibratory systems, combined with job shop services like aluminum oxide recycling, ensures comprehensive support. By offering both in-house and on-site remanufacturing, they minimize downtime and provide cost-effective alternatives to new equipment. For industries seeking reliable, sustainable solutions, contact Great Lakes Finishing. Call us at: 847-888-0995 or online https://www.greatfinishing.com/rfq/