The Hidden Dangers of Refurbished or Unauthorized Automation Components in Factories.

Automation is the backbone of modern manufacturing, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency in every process. Yet, many factories compromise these standards by relying on refurbished or unauthorized components such as PLCs, motors, HMIs, VFDs, and instrumentation. Although these parts may seem affordable initially, they often result in serious long-term operational risks and costly damage. Manufacturers must carefully evaluate the risks of using refurbished or unauthorized parts. Investing in original, authorized automation components is not just about preventing breakdowns—it is about ensuring sustainable growth, consistent performance, and long-term cost savings.

Major Risks of Using Refurbished or Unauthorized Automation Components: 

PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)

  • Frequent program crashes due to unstable processors.
  • Incorrect input/output response leading to wrong machine operations.
  • Limited compatibility with updated software and communication protocols.
  • Shortened lifespan of memory cards and expansion modules.
  • Higher chances of total system failure, causing unexpected downtime.

Human Machine Interface (HMI)

  • Unresponsive or inaccurate touchscreen displays.
  • Poor connectivity with PLCs and SCADA systems.
  • Frequent firmware errors, leading to system freezes.
  • Limited support for data logging and advanced monitoring.
  • Increased safety risks due to delayed operator response.

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

  • Unstable voltage and frequency regulation.
  • Frequent tripping under load, causing production interruptions.
  • Higher risk of damaging motors due to irregular current output.
  • Inefficient energy usage, raising electricity bills.
  • Limited fault protection features compared to authorized VFDs.

Motors

  • Irregular torque and unstable speed performance.
  • Overheating issues due to poor winding and insulation quality.
  • Higher energy consumption compared to genuine motors.
  • Short operating life and frequent breakdowns under heavy loads.
  • Risk of damaging connected gearboxes and drives.

Instrumentation (Sensors, Transmitters, Gauges)

  • Inaccurate measurements of temperature, pressure, flow, and level.
  • Poor calibration that drifts quickly during operation.
  • Higher rejection rate of products due to inconsistent quality.
  • Risk of unsafe process conditions, leading to accidents.
  • Shorter lifespan, requiring frequent replacements.

Power Supply and UPS

  • Inconsistent voltage regulation, damaging sensitive electronics.
  • Frequent failure during high load or power surges.
  • Poor backup support, leading to sudden system shutdowns.
  • Reduced lifespan of automation panels and control boards.
  • Risk of data loss in critical operations.

Other Automation Components (Relays, Contactors, Circuit Breakers)

  • High risk of short circuits and fire hazards.
  • Faster wear and tear of contacts, causing frequent replacements.
  • Inconsistent switching times, leading to machine malfunctions.
  • Lack of safety certifications, increasing compliance risks.
  • No technical support or warranty coverage.

Hidden Costs and Risks

  • Initial cost savings are offset by frequent breakdowns and downtime.
  • Increased maintenance and repair expenses.
  • Loss of warranty and technical support from OEMs.
  • Regulatory non-compliance, leading to penalties or shutdowns.
  • Damaged brand reputation due to inconsistent product quality.

Using refurbished or unauthorized automation components may seem cheap, but they risk safety, efficiency, and reputation. Sincos, with Siemens-authorized automation solutions, ensures factories achieve reliability, compliance, and long-term cost savings.

How Sincos Protects with Authorized Siemens Automation Components

  • Provides genuine Siemens PLCs, HMIs, Motors, VFDs, Power Supplies, and Instrumentation.
  • Ensures global standard compliance with certified automation parts.
  • Offers longer equipment lifespan through high-quality components.
  • Guarantees energy efficiency and stable performance.
  • Provides warranty, after-sales service, and technical support.
  • Protects factories from unexpected failures, hidden costs, and compliance issues.
  • Strengthens factory reputation by delivering consistent quality and reliable production output.

Factories that use refurbished or unauthorized automation products face high risks: breakdowns, inefficiency, safety hazards, and compliance issues. By partnering with Sincos for Siemens automation components, industries ensure reliability, global compliance, and long-term cost savings. Sincos not only delivers original Siemens products but also provides end-to-end technical support, warranty, and system integration for maximum protection and efficiency.