Decommissioning – How Does it Work?

Decommissioning can be a mystery process. Seemingly overnight, a facility or space containing industrial machinery can be emptied, cleaned, and ready to be repurposed. But what is the process behind it? 

NRTC Automation is at the forefront of decommissioning services, and we support and walk customers through the process every step of the way. Read on to learn more about how our decommissioning process works.  

How does decommissioning work? 

FIRST, DETERMINE IF IT’S TIME TO DECOMMISSION

The first step in the decommissioning process is to determine that the industrial machine or space is ready to be decommissioned.  

For an industrial machine or robot, are you replacing parts often, or are spare parts becoming a challenge to find? How much money do you have to invest in repairs and maintenance? Answering these questions can help you determine if it is time for decommission or replacement.  

Perhaps a company has outgrown its warehouse and needs to move to a larger space, or adversely has decided to close its doors. These instances would require decommissioning on a bigger scale.  

NRTC can decommission anything from individual robots to facilities larger than 750,000 square feet.  

PREPARATION NEEDS TO BE COMPLETED 

Once you have decided to decommission, it’s time to make sure all the prep steps are completed. Obtaining approvals from the board and management are important, as well as figuring out if the space or facility will be reused or demolished.  

It’s also important to set and define time restrictions the project might have, such as moving dates or target goals for the repurposing of the facility.  

If there are any assets that are going to be moved to another facility, such as an industrial robot or machine, it’s important to transfer those ahead of time. All other assets marked for decommissioning will be taken care of during the process.  

Once the prep work is complete, it’s time for NRTC Automation to take over.  

LET THE DECOMMISSIONING BEGIN 

NRTC starts the decommission process with a 3D facility scan, which includes photos of all industrial equipment and a layout of the facility. Then, a project manager oversees the tear out, from start to finish.  

As part of the process, we identify the equipment of value versus those machines that will need to be scraped, and remove one section at a time, making sure we consult on the method of removal that fits best for a business.  

As NRTC moves through the process, the project manager will provide updates of the project through key milestones and the timeline developed, and communicate a schedule of all the steps. Transparency throughout allows for constant updates, and keeps the project on track.  

Safety is our priority, so expect safety signage and other measures in zones that could be potentially hazardous or dangerous. The NRTC team will wear branded safety gear for visibility and we take all precautions listed by OSHA.  

TIE UP LOOSE ENDS  

Once NRTC Automation has completed the tear out, we complete the broom-ready space by cleaning up any loose ends. This includes making sure the floor is smooth and removing any wires, hooks, or bolts that may keep the floor from being flush.  

Once finished, you have a space that is ready to be swept and repurposed, and the project manager will do one last walkthrough to ensure all steps are completed.  

DECOMMISSIONING WITH NRTC 

Decommissioning doesn’t have to be a mystery, or a long, -drawn-out process. NRTC Automation’s comprehensive decommissioning services place an emphasis on safety, speed, and efficiency. We have a customizable yet structured industrial tear-out service, and work with companies to meet deadlines, develop a plan, and make sure a broom-ready facility is complete at the end of the process.  

Contact NRTC today to learn more about our quick and painless decommissioning services, and how we can help you.  

NRTC: How Do You Know When It's Time to Decommission?

Not everyone finds it easy to decommission old equipment, mainly due to a lack of proper guidance on letting go of industrial machinery. 

It can be difficult to determine when you should decommission your equipment. You may not be sure of what signs to look for, or if the money you are putting into it outweighs the investment. 

Eventually, your machine is going to wear out, and when it does, you have a choice to make. Deciding it is time to say goodbye, and decommission it, or invest more money in repair costs.  

Signs that confirm you should decommission  

#1: ABNORMALLY HIGH REPAIR COSTS  

Even a machine that gets regular maintenance will one day encounter a large repair issue, and with that, a high cost. Knowing when that cost, paired with the regular maintenance, is becoming too much is key to knowing when to decommission.  

Mechanics and machinery do wear over time, and replacing parts is required over the years. When this starts to happen with more frequency, take time to examine the cost you are putting in for upkeep versus the cost for a replacement.  

Purchasing a used machine can keep costs low and solve ongoing repair issues. Our partner, HGR, carries a wide selection of industrial surplus including used machines and robots, and they are a great resource when looking to replace your decommissioned machine.  

#2: THE MACHINE BECOMES A SAFETY CONCERN  

The safety of employees and staff should always be the number one priority of a workplace. If a machine becomes a health or safety hazard, decommissioning should be done immediately.  

Safety hazards may not be as visible as a worn belt or sparks. If a machine doesn’t start up the way it should, the cause should be investigated promptly, as it could be an indication of something potentially hazardous. Make sure your staff is communicating any issues with machinery that could lead to a safety hazard, and ultimately, decommission.   

#3: EQUIPMENT DEPRECIATION  

Equipment depreciation happens naturally over time, even with regular maintenance and care. Unless the machine sits idle at an industrial warehouse, each time it runs it will reduce its value. 

As depreciation happens, make sure you do some quick financial calculations. Choices can be made to run the machine until it surpasses its usefulness, or sell it prior to the end of its lifetime, and make a return on your investment. A clear financial picture can help you to make an objective decision regarding decommissioning.  

#4: COST OF MACHINERY INSURANCE INCREASES 

Insurance is a necessary part of machine ownership, but can also be a great indicator of when it may be time to decommission. When your premiums start to increase, it means the insurance company has evaluated the risk of that machine as increasing due to age.  

Insurance companies will also lower premiums based on new safety measures. If you do have to decommission, look for a newer used machine or robot that may save you on insurance as well.  

NRTC IS YOUR GO-TO PARTNER FOR ALL DECOMMISSIONING NEEDS 

It is time to say goodbye to your equipment when it no longer functions as it should despite all the many repairs and maintenance. At NRTC, we are the experts in decommissioning machinery We have transparent processes that give you visibility from start to finish.