Retrofit (Refurbishment)
The word retrofit is made up of the two words “retro” and “fit”. Retro is the Latin word for backwards and fit is the English word for adapt. A retrofit is the modernization or expansion of existing plants and equipment. In German, it would be described as conversion, refurbishment and retrofitting.
In contrast to a new acquisition, a retrofit is a cost-effective alternative to bring the equipment up to the latest standard in order to increase energy efficiency, improve product quality, extend the service life of the equipment and meet current legal requirements. Since the basic structure of a retrofit remains the same, there are no space problems or lengthy conversion work in the production hall.
Another advantage of a retrofit is the existing protection of a plant which is still guaranteed, whereas the acquisition of a new plant does not guarantee that a new permit will be obtained.