Remanufactured vs Refurbished: What’s the Difference?
If your business needs an industrial pump and it wants to save some cash, it might consider something other than brand new. Instead of buying something off of Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, you’re better off going to a trusted source and getting a pump that has been remanufactured or refurbished.
However, these labels don’t mean quite the same thing. Here’s everything you need to know about buying a remanufactured versus a refurbished industrial pump.
What Is Remanufactured Equipment?
A remanufactured product, like an industrial pump, is a used product that has gone through the extensive process of being repaired and rebuilt so that it once again works to factory standards. The item may have a few cosmetic blemishes but is considered to be of like-new quality with regard to its performance.
Why You Should Consider Remanufactured Equipment
Industrial pumps are vital to initiating and controlling the flow of liquids, gasses, and slurries, such as oil, gas, water, and chemicals, in a variety of industries. If you work in a sector that uses industrial pumps, you know that having well-performing equipment is vital to the success of your operation. However, if your existing pump dies, you may not need to purchase a brand new one. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider a remanufactured pump.
1. Lowers the Cost of Ownership
Buying and using remanufactured parts is an excellent way to lower the overall cost of your equipment ownership. Remanufactured pumps cost less than new ones, offering your business better value while ensuring the best performance possible. Every remanufactured pump is thoroughly tested before being sold.
2. Reduces Downtime
Rather than having your pump out of service while you wait for repair, a component rebuild, or the delivery of a new pump, a remanufactured pump can be delivered immediately. These remanufactured pumps are readily available in different options and can be delivered to your worksite in a matter of hours or days, reducing your downtime significantly.
3. Better than the Original
It’s possible to get a remanufactured pump that is better than your original equipment. For example, your original pump might be a model that was launched a decade ago. While a great design, there have been some improvements over the past ten years. When remanufacturing a pump, those improvements can be incorporated into the equipment, making it even better and more effective than the original.
4. High-Quality Equipment
When you choose a remanufactured part, you are always getting quality, not just a used pump. There are strict procedures and quality assurance processes built into the remanufacturing process so the resulting equipment is same-as or better-than-new, giving you the peace of mind and value you deserve.
5. Good for the Environment
Remanufacturing is a green option because it keeps parts out of the landfill longer. It also conserves some of the energy that would otherwise be used to produce a new part.
How the Remanufacturing Process Works
To better understand how the remanufacturing process works, here’s a general idea of how a company will restore an industrial pump.
1. Disassembly
The first step is to take the equipment apart and create an inventory of items that require replacement and servicing. Those parts are then thoroughly cleaned using a variety of processes.
2. Inspection
The fully cleaned and disassembled pump is thoroughly inspected to again assess the condition of each component. All parts are also carefully measured. These details are documented in an inspection report.
3. Engineering Review
Referring to the inspection report, an engineering review is the next step. During this process, the steps required for remanufacturing will be laid out, including the ordering of any new parts.
4. Assembly
Once any new parts arrive and other items of concern have been thoroughly addressed, it’s time to reassemble the pump. Critical dimensions are checked repeatedly and recorded in the inspection report during the process.
5. Performance Testing
The remanufactured pump is tested to ensure that it meets all performance standards before being cleared for sale.
What to Consider When Looking for a Remanufactured Pump
Shopping for a remanufactured pump can become overwhelming quickly because of the many options available. To help you choose the right pump for your needs, here are a few factors to consider when looking at remanufactured equipment.
Application
Similar to buying a new pump, you still need to make sure that the pump you are purchasing is suitable for your needs. Even if you are getting a remanufactured direct replacement for your previous pump, take some time to reassess your needs. They might have changed. If you aren’t sure whether the pump you are considering will be the right choice, simply ask.
Quality
Not everyone who remanufactures pumps will have the same quality standards. First, make sure the brand of pump you are considering is a high-quality one. Then, research the company you are considering doing business with to ensure they are reputable and service your area.
What Is Refurbished Equipment?
Refurbished refers to any equipment that isn’t factory-new. Instead, it’s a used part that has been tested and verified to work properly. Sometimes it’s a part that has only been purchased and returned without use or one with a minor cosmetic defect that can’t be sold as “new.”
How much inspection and testing is conducted will depend on the seller. Some conduct extensive testing and “certify” that their refurbished parts are in “like-new condition.” Others will simply give the item a quick once over to ensure it works before putting it back up for sale.
What’s the Difference?
Unfortunately, there aren’t any legal definitions for the terms “remanufactured” and “refurbished.” One seller might use the term to mean one thing, and another uses it to mean something else entirely. If you’re looking for a used industrial pump, what matters is who you are dealing with to get the equipment.
Because some sellers use the terms “remanufactured” and “refurbished” interchangeably, it’s a good idea to ask plenty of questions. If you plan to purchase “used” equipment, make sure you are working with a trusted partner who will stand behind their claims.
At C&B Equipment, we are experts in industrial pumps. Our specialists can help you save on purchasing costs with our repair and rebuild services by restoring your current pump to 100% functionality. We can also deliver a remanufactured pump to your location as quickly as possible at a fraction of the cost of a new pump.
C&B Equipment proudly serves clients throughout Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, the Texas Panhandle, and Arkansas. For more information about our products and services, contact us today.