For maintenance teams dealing with aging automation equipment, what are the most effective strategies for extending the lifespan of critical components like servo drives and PLCs while waiting for replacement parts with 6-month lead times?

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Hey there! Dealing with aging automation equipment while waiting months for replacement parts is a real challenge we face in maintenance. Here are some proven strategies that can help keep your servo drives and PLCs running longer:

First, focus on thermal management - overheating is a major killer of electronic components. Keep servo drives operating within safe temperature limits and ensure proper ventilation. For PLCs, monitor cabinet temperatures and consider adding cooling fans if needed.

Implement predictive maintenance by monitoring vibration levels and electrical parameters. Regular electrical testing can catch issues before they become catastrophic failures. Keep backup units on-site if possible - even refurbished or legacy parts can be lifesavers.

Don't forget basic housekeeping: keep components clean, apply conformal coating to protect PCBs, and replace any degraded boards. Partner with distributors who stock legacy parts, and consider retrofitting with modern components where feasible.

These proactive approaches are low-cost but high-return strategies that can significantly extend equipment lifespan while you wait for those long-lead replacement parts!

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For maintenance teams dealing with aging automation equipment, what are the most effective strategies for extending the lifespan of critical components like servo drives and PLCs while waiting for replacement parts with 6-month lead times?

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