REIDEN RX18
Complex relocation of a REIDEN RX18 including technical assessment, targeted refurbishment, heavy transport logistics and on-schedule recommissioning.
Make
REIDEN
Model / Control
RX18 / HEIDENHAIN TNC 640
Machine type
CNC-5-Axis-Machining Center
Project scope
Project Coordination, Machine Refurbishment and Recommissioning
Machine during disassembly
Machine during removal
Technical Assessment and Dismantling
The relocation of this REIDEN RX18 involved far more than a conventional machine transfer. In addition to dismantling, transport and reassembly, the project focused on a comprehensive technical assessment, meticulous project planning and the precise coordination of all parties involved. The objective was to return this state-of-the-art machining centre to production at its new location within the shortest possible time.
Before dismantling began, the complete machine geometry was inspected and documented together with a REIDEN service engineer. At the same time, a detailed technical assessment of the machine was carried out. Based on this evaluation, a comprehensive action plan was prepared, defining all necessary refurbishment measures and the replacement of selected components. As the machine was found to be in excellent overall condition, the work could be concentrated on specific assemblies, allowing refurbishment to be carried out efficiently and precisely.
The dismantling itself presented a significant logistical challenge. The basic machine, occupying an installation area of approximately 7.6 × 6.8 metres with a height of around 5 metres, was positioned directly against walls on two sides, while only a narrow service aisle was available at the front. Including the pallet station and setup stations, the complete system extended over almost 25 × 8 metres.
Adding to the complexity, the machine had originally been installed through an opening in the roof of the production hall. As this option was no longer available during relocation, the complete dismantling had to be carried out entirely within the existing building structure. This required carefully coordinated dismantling sequences, precise lifting operations and close cooperation between the Fleckenstein service team and REIDEN specialists to ensure safe removal without compromising the machine's geometry or condition.
Oversized transport
Together with REIDEN service engineers, the complete machine was dismantled over a period of four weeks. Due to its overall size and complex design, the system had to be disassembled into numerous individual assemblies. Throughout the dismantling process, all components were thoroughly cleaned and inspected, while minor refurbishment work was carried out immediately where required. At the same time, assemblies requiring more extensive refurbishment were identified, documented and prepared for subsequent overhaul at the Fleckenstein facility.
Refurbishment and Project Management
The comprehensive technical assessment carried out during the early project phase made it possible to order all required spare parts while dismantling was still in progress. This proactive approach ensured that refurbishment work could begin without delay and be completed according to schedule. At the same time, the customer was already carrying out the foundation work at the new production site. The close coordination between all parties involved proved to be a key factor in maintaining the demanding project schedule.
The refurbishment work included, among others:
- Replacement of the X-, Y- and Z-axis guideways
- Replacement of the Y-axis ball screw
- Renewal of hydraulic hoses and piping
- Replacement of the bevel gear lubrication system
- Installation of a new milling head cover
- Conversion of the counterbalance system to the latest design
- Inspection of more than 90 assemblies and system components, including the linear axes, milling head, machine bed, tool changer and all peripheral equipment
The transport phase also required meticulous planning. The complete machine system was moved using ten truckloads, including two oversized transports requiring special permits and escort vehicles. Only through the precise coordination of transport logistics, refurbishment activities and installation work was it possible to keep the project on schedule and ensure a seamless transition to the new production site.
Installation of the machine housing
Machine during reassembly
Tool magazine during reassembly
Machine during reassembly
Working area after recommissioning
Machine after recommissioning
Reassembly and Successful Recommissioning
Following the arrival of the machine at its new location, the complete system was reassembled. Over a period of five weeks, all machine components were installed, connected and recommissioned step by step.
Once assembly had been completed, the entire machine underwent comprehensive geometric verification, precision alignment of all axes and extensive functional testing. Only after the successful completion of these procedures and the operator training was the REIDEN RX18 handed over to the customer in full production-ready condition.
Thanks to the precisely coordinated project schedule, the machine was returned to production without unnecessary delays. This project clearly demonstrates that the successful relocation of a complex machine tool involves far more than transportation alone. It requires the seamless integration of technical expertise, forward-looking project management, efficient logistics, targeted refurbishment and precise recommissioning. Only the combination of these disciplines ensures a smooth and reliable relocation while maintaining the highest standards of machine performance and productivity.
Reassembly of the pallet station:
Machine at the original location
Machine at the new location
