UEM vs OEM

ASI Technology Systems' distinctive UEM (Used Equipment reManufacturer) concept combines used, refurbished, upgraded, and new web coating and converting equipment to deliver like-new Web Converting Machinery at a 40% to 60% savings and with a significantly reduced delivery schedule compared to the traditional OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) approach. Thanks to ASI Techs thorough design, development, and remanufacturing processes, they are able to provide the same warranty offered by an OEM. Additionally, when ASI Tech partners with the engineering expertise of their mechanical division, they can design, refurbish, build, and integrate the drive, control, and mechanical systems needed for your next converting line project.

If your goal is to improve the process or production capability of an existing line, ASI Techs UEM method begins by gaining a full understanding of your specific operational needs. From there, your current machinery is carefully reviewed to determine which parts of the line can be reused, which components should be refurbished, and which items must be replaced with new or rebuilt equipment. For customers planning a completely new production line, ASI Tech will identify decommissioned equipment suitable for upgrading to your exact specifications, supplementing it with new components whenever required.

ASI Tech also manages all aspects of equipment relocation, whether the move involves transferring machinery to another area within your facility or transporting it to a completely new site, whether nearby or across the globe. Decommissioned sections designated for reuse are shipped directly to the new location, while components needing refurbishment or upgrades are sent to ASI Techs facilities. New sections are designed and constructed by ASI Tech, and any required third-party equipment is sourced accordingly. Throughout the entire project, ASI Techprovides single-point responsibility, ensuring consistent oversight. Installation and commissioning services are also available to deliver a complete turnkey solution. All new and refurbished equipment is supported by a full warranty, offering OEM-level assurance—yet at only 40% to 60% of the cost of a traditional OEM line.

Extrusion Coating UEM: Before and After System Upgrade

Before the Upgrade

Originally designed for high-end inkjet photo paper production, this tandem extrusion coating line had limited flexibility and aging technology:

Maximum line speed of 800 feet per minute (fpm)
Built for heavy paper substrates
Dependent on an antiquated drive and control system

This setup restricted performance and limited the ability to serve new markets.

Results That Matter

This upgrade allowed for:

Faster production speeds
Higher yield and precision
Entry into new, growing market segments
A more modern, maintainable, and future-proof platform

After the Upgrade

We transformed the system to meet the demands of the graphic arts market, enabling higher speed, lighter substrates, and advanced control:

Reconfigured for light-gauge paper
Regeared for 1200 fpm – a 50% speed increase
Installed new dancer assembly, idler rolls, and pull roll optimized for lightweight material
Upgraded control system to the modern Extrusion Pro System, replacing legacy CMR/Exact components
Integrated containerized drive design for improved reliability and simplified maintenance

Liquid Coating UEM: Before and After Upgrade

Before the Upgrade

Originally built in the early 1990s, this multipurpose industrial coater was located in the UK and configured for lower speed and heavier materials. Key limitations included: