Automation Retrofit

Is my machine suitable for an Automation Retrofit?

Whether adjustments to hardware or software are required for integration depends on the specific machine type, technical design, and year of manufacture. With our Automation Finder, you can check which automation solutions are generally compatible with your machine type.

Our Automation Retrofit team will assess which automation solution suits your machine and optimally supports your processes on an individual and non-binding basis.

For an inquiry, please use the contact form or send us your request including the machine number by email to automation-retrofits@dmgmori.com.

My machine does not have an automation interface. Can I still retrofit it?

Machines without an existing automation interface can also be automated in many cases.

Whether integration is possible depends on the technical design, control system, and condition of the machine. Our Automation Retrofit team will assess this individually and without obligation and show you which automation solution is technically feasible and which adjustments are required.

For an inquiry, please use the contact form or send us your request including the machine number by email to automation-retrofits@dmgmori.com.

What role does the year of manufacture of my machine play?

The year of manufacture is not fundamentally an exclusion criterion. However, the older a machine is, the higher the requirements for retrofitting may be. Many older machines have hardware and software that are no longer fully compatible with current automation solutions.

With the help of our compatibility check, DMG MORI examines which adjustments are necessary and whether they can be implemented on your existing machine. In many cases, a conversion or a machine update is sufficient to create the prerequisites for automation.

For which machines is an automation retrofit particularly suitable?

An automation retrofit is particularly suitable for machines that operate reliably and offer clear potential for increasing productivity.

Retrofitting is especially interesting for machines with recurring components, stable processes, and available capacity for additional operating time, for example in unmanned shifts. This allows you to specifically increase the performance of your existing machine without having to invest directly in a new one.

Our Automation Retrofit team will assess your individual situation and show you which solution is technically and economically feasible.

For an inquiry, please use the contact form or send us your request including the machine number by email to automation-retrofits@dmgmori.com.

Which DMG MORI automation solutions can be retrofitted?

DMG MORI offers various solutions for pallet handling and workpiece handling for the subsequent automation of machine tools.

The “Retrofittable” label in the Automation Finder allows you to check which automation solutions are generally compatible with your machine type.

For a binding statement, please use the contact form or send an email to automation-retrofits@dmgmori.com and include your machine number as well as the desired automation solution.

Why should I choose an automation solution from DMG MORI?

DMG MORI Automation offers you the advantage of having your machine, automation, and service perfectly coordinated. You receive a single-source solution that is technically compatible with your machine and designed for reliable, productive use in everyday manufacturing.

In addition, you benefit from comprehensive consulting, professional integration, and a single point of contact throughout the entire project: from planning and commissioning to service and training. This lays the foundation for cost-effective, reliable, and future-proof automation of your production.

What advantages does an automation retrofit offer compared to a new machine?

An Automation Retrofit allows you to automate your existing machine and specifically increase productivity without having to invest in a new machine. You use existing capacities more efficiently, reduce downtime, and increase the utilization of your production.

At the same time, existing processes and familiar operating concepts are retained. In many cases, existing CNC programs can also continue to be used. This allows for faster integration and keeps the transition manageable for your team.

Why is a retrofit worthwhile?

A retrofit enables the automation of your existing machine tool and significantly increases productivity. With the right automation solution, you increase the utilization of your DMG MORI machine and leverage additional capacity during unmanned night and weekend shifts.

At the same time, you avoid the high investment costs of a new machine and sustainably improve the efficiency of your production.

How quickly does an automation retrofit pay for itself?

The payback period depends on various factors, particularly your machine's current utilization rate, manufacturing processes, and the level of automation.

In many cases, an Automation Retrofit pays for itself within just a few months, as it enables additional operating hours during unmanned shifts and significantly increases productivity.

How does a retrofit process work?

At DMG MORI, an Automation Retrofit is implemented in a structured process with several steps. First, our team checks your machine as part of a compatibility check and evaluates the technical requirements. An individual quotation is then prepared.

After planning, implementation follows, including any necessary adjustments to hardware and software as well as the integration of the automation. Finally, the solution is commissioned and tested together with you to ensure a stable production process.

How long will my machine be down during the retrofit?

The duration of downtime depends on the scope of the retrofit, the selected automation solution, and the condition of the machine.

However, careful planning and preparation keep downtime to a minimum. Many measures can be carried out in advance, allowing the actual on-site integration to be implemented efficiently.

In most cases, your machine can continue producing up to the day of the retrofit.

Can I continue using my existing programs?

In general, existing CNC programs can continue to be used, provided that basic requirements such as DIN ISO structures and clean entry and exit strategies are met. In some cases, programs may need to be supplemented with change commands or adapted to enable automation. (E.g.: The counter spindle must be moved to a different position so that the robot can pick up the part.)

This enables fast integration of the automation solution and ensures a stable and reproducible production process.

What training courses on automation does DMG MORI offer following a retrofit?

Upon request, DMG MORI offers training tailored to your retrofitted automation solution as part of the retrofit project. This allows your team to be prepared for future use early on and ensures that training is integrated directly into the project planning.

The training typically covers the operation of the automation system, safe handling in daily production, and basic process flows. This ensures that, from the very beginning, your employees are equipped to integrate the new solution quickly, safely, and efficiently into their daily work.