Automated machines have been operating for decades now, which makes maintenance a critical piece of the puzzle. These automated machines break down or need service attention just like any other, and inevitably, maintenance technicians will need to search out replacement parts to keep the equipment up and running. This is not as simple a concept as it may seem on the surface. Often, they run into challenges. Perhaps the part they are looking for is discontinued. Or maybe it’s unavailable at the time. Or maybe there is a shipping issue, and they can’t receive it for an extended period of time. As we all know, there is always a possibility that a shipping crisis rears its ugly head. In these situations, decision makers will look for alternative components from a different manufacturer. This may sound good in theory, but there are nuances to this exercise that must be examined. In our world, we call this “doing a crossover.”
Successful crossovers are most common when there is clear and open communication between the supplier and the customer. After all, there are usually several interested parties on the customer side, and they all have their own priorities. There are machine builders and machine users and they each have their own requirements and goals.
Machine builders start with a desired goal for the machine. These are activities like loading pills in a bottle or maintaining a level in a tank. When the machines are designed, products are selected to meet the goal of that machine.
However, the machine user typically has other challenges they are trying to overcome. They have the added pressure of getting a broken machine up and running. They may not have the inside knowledge that the machine designer does, they may just know the part number.
Finally, there is the supplier to consider. This person may receive a call for a quote to a certain part number “or its equivalent.” Without context, trouble could ensue. Who is making the request? Does the requestor have the authority to substitute parts? Many times, the requestor doesn’t have all the information needed to make such a substitution successfully.
It's a complex process, and what’s most important is that for a crossover to be successful, more information is better than less. That way all interested parties are informed and we can be sure, and everyone’s needs are being met.
We did a more in-depth discussion on this topic in Control Design Magazine last year. I encourage you to take a look, and feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.
Need help selecting the right replacement parts? Speak to one of our technical specialists today at (855) 737-4716 or fill out our online form and one of them will contact you.