Maintest

Free tool

Repair, Retrofit or Replace?

Compare the lifecycle cost (NPV/TCO) of three scenarios — repair, retrofit, or new equipment.

Repair of a plate shearing machine

1. Current equipment costs

used for all scenarios

2. Risk ratings (1 = low, 5 = high)

3. Scenario A — Repair

4. Scenario B — Retrofit

5. Scenario C — New Equipment

6. Analysis parameters

Result: lifecycle cost comparison (NPV/TCO)

Risk ratings (your input)
⚠️ Technical risks may reverse the economic result. High spare parts, obsolescence or safety risk may make a cheaper scenario more expensive or impossible in practice.

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This result is an indicative decision-support aid, not an engineering calculation or formal appraisal. For a final decision, we recommend a technical audit and quote comparison.

How the calculation works

The tool compares three scenarios – repair, retrofit and a new machine – over a chosen period (1–10 years) using net present value (NPV). Each scenario’s cost is the initial cost plus the annual running cost (maintenance, downtime, energy), discounted at the chosen rate; the new machine’s residual value is deducted. The lowest-cost scenario is flagged, but risks (spare parts, obsolescence, safety) are assessed separately because they can overturn the economic result.

Example: repair may be cheapest today, but if failure costs and downtime are high, retrofit may prove cheaper over 5–10 years.

Frequently asked questions

Does the tool recommend buying a new machine?

No. It shows the lowest modelled lifecycle cost; you make the final decision together with risks and a technical assessment.

Which period should I use?

Usually the expected remaining service life of the machine, between 1 and 10 years.

What is the discount rate?

The rate used to bring future costs to today’s value. The company’s cost of capital is often used.

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Methodology and limitations

Methodology based on standard industry calculations and Maintest’s practical industrial experience. This tool provides a planning estimate and does not replace project-specific engineering assessment. This tool is a screening and planning aid developed by Maintest. Results are indicative and depend entirely on the figures and answers you enter. They are not an engineering calculation, a safety assessment or a substitute for the manufacturer’s instructions, applicable standards or professional judgement. Weights, benchmarks and default values are Maintest planning assumptions and can be adjusted to your situation. Do not use this tool as the only basis for safety-critical decisions such as lifting, electrical work or lockout procedures.

Tool version 1.0 · Updated October 2026

Related project: Industrial equipment installation in Keila

Want certainty about the right scenario for your equipment?

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