Thinking About Replacing an Aging Machine? Watch This First.
From Obsolescence to Optimization: How to Revitalize Critical Machine Tools to Achieve What Used to be Impossible
This session was recorded live at IMTS 2026: 2026-09-14
In this IMTS 2026 Conference session, Rob Snodgrass of Fives and Brandon Scott of FANUC discuss practical strategies for modernizing legacy machine tools to improve reliability, maintainability, operator usability, and digital readiness. The discussion includes real-world examples of machine tool retrofits, modernization best practices, and key factors manufacturers should evaluate before deciding whether to replace or upgrade existing equipment.
Topics Covered
✅ Identifying strong modernization candidates
✅ Extending the life of critical manufacturing assets
✅ Reducing obsolescence risk
✅ Improving operator experience and maintenance efficiency
✅ Modern CNC controls and connectivity
✅ Digital manufacturing readiness and data collection
✅ Safety, training, and workforce considerations
✅ ROI considerations for retrofit vs. replacement decisions
Key Question:
When does it make more sense to modernize an existing machine rather than replace it?
Watch the session to learn how manufacturers are preserving valuable process capability while leveraging modern controls, connectivity, safety systems, and digital technologies.
Wondering if one of your machines is a modernization candidate?