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Navigating the challenge of obsolete Lenze parts
July 1, 2025
On average, a Lenze product has a shelf life of between five and 20 years before becoming an obsolete Lenze part. Regardless of how well-made a product is, it has an expiration date. There is only so much you can do to keep the product going.
For some of its components, Lenze began a gradual phase-out due to obsolescence. In 2017, a RoHS directive caused the SMD series Lenze drives, 8200 and 9300, to begin their gradual phasing out.
Besides the official announcement for those drivers, there have been other Lenze components listed as discontinued or already obsolete. These include Lenze servo driver motors (ECS servo drives, 9300 servo drives) and inverters (8200 vector, 9300 vector drives and 8200 motec drives).
With all of this said the discontinuance of machine parts can affect production and supply chain management. EU Automation understands the Lenze lifecycle phases and provides actionable insights for navigating obsolete Lenze parts.
Popular Lenze components nearing obsolescence
Lenze has developed a wide range of automation products over the decades, including drives, controllers, inverters, and motors. When faced with obsolescence, first check Lenze's product range for direct replacements.
Lenze 9400 Servo Inverter Series
Engineers design the 9400 Lenze servo drives to meet the exacting demands of modern manufacturing. Whether deployed in single-axis or complex multi-axis applications, this servo inverter delivers consistently impressive performance, enabling machines to execute rapid movements. Its intelligently designed mounting system simplifies installation while helping manufacturers reduce setup time.
Lenze 8200 Vector Drives
The 8200 Lenze vector drives are designed to address a wide range of individual drive tasks. This modular converter series provides manufacturers with a cost-effective means to achieve reliable and efficient motion control.
Ideal for cabinet installation, the Lenze 8200 Vector stands out with its uniform programming approach. Regardless of power rating, all models share the same software setup and compatible external functional modules.
Lenze ECS Servo Drives
The Lenze ECS servo system is a component engineered for tasking and high-dynamic multi-axis applications. The system provides a peak current ranging from 4 to 64 amps. It features central supply units and axis modules that can manage overloads between 100% and 200%. This performance ensures reliable operation even under the most challenging peak load conditions.
What are Lenze’s lifecycle phases? And how do they affect customers?
Lenze has a standard product management lifecycle¹ that gives 5 clear stages for the lifecycle of its products. These lifecycle phases radically impact the behaviour of customers towards their Lenze drives. Additionally, these phases guide customers' actions when they encounter obsolete Lenze products. These phases are:
Stage 0 - Available:
In this phase, the product is available off the shelf and is in series production. The availability of a product varies in length of time between electronic products and mechanical/electromechanical products. Electronics are within the first phase between 5 to 10 years. Mechanical and electromechanical products usually last about 10 to 20 years in their first phase.
Stage 1 - Being phased out:
This refers to products that are being phased out and will soon have their production discontinued. The company notifies all customers one year before the product's discontinuation. If a product, such as a Lenze drive, is ordered after the process has started, a note will be attached indicating the discontinuation. During this period, full service and support remain even after discontinuation.
Stage 2 – Discontinued:
During this phase, Lenze focuses on serving customers who have already placed their orders. The company ensures delivery according to the existing agreements. Lenze will continue to provide spare parts and technical support, along with full service and support, for products that are still in use.
Stage 3 - Product is a spare part:
Lenze halts production during this phase. Manufacturers do not produce new units individually. However, Lenze offers comprehensive support for a period of up to two years. There is also still support for transitions.
Stage 4 - Product is a spare part (last call):
In this phase, customers are informed about the cessation of spare parts. They will also be given a grace period of 6 to 12 months to order spare parts they may wish to keep in stock. Customers should not expect responsive support after this phase.
Actionable tips for sourcing replacements or alternative options
Dealing with obsolete Lenze parts can be quite challenging. However, by following these tips, you can effectively maintain your machines and manage necessary transitions. Some of these tips include:
1. Proactive obsolescence management
Proactive obsolescence management involves constantly monitoring the lifecycle of components to prepare for when they become obsolete.
2. Safety stocks
Creating a safety stock can provide a crucial buffer. This is especially helpful when items become obsolete, and you are in the process of finding replacements.
Preparing a safety stock is not only vital for when Lenze vector drives become obsolete, but it is also a safety net for occasional supply inconsistencies before obsolescence occurs.
3. Take advantage of the last call spare part phase.
You should assess when a Lenze part is entering its final phase. Lenze provides customers the opportunity to obtain their final stock of spare parts before the company discontinues them. Customers understand that once a product becomes obsolete, they’ll no longer have access to it. So, the last call is the best time to restock well enough to sustain operations pending transition to another product.
When it comes to sourcing new, surplus or reconditioned parts, turning to authorised distributors and specialised industrial automation suppliers is essential. While customers can’t rely on obsolete Lenze products indefinitely, transitioning to suitable alternatives can be complex. That’s where EU Automation comes in, offering guidance and global sourcing to simplify the process and keep your operations running smoothly.
4. Retrofits/Upgrades
There are some critical components, such as older Lenze drives, that may pose a challenge in repair. Therefore, opting for an upgrade might be a solution. This solution requires more commitment but offers more long-term stability. In some cases, these obsolete parts contribute to workers safety.
5. Consider professional repair and reconditioning services as a viable and sustainable alternative.
You can also consider professional third-party repair and reconditioning services to sustain the use of obsolete Lenze parts. Although this isn't always reliable, it can extend the life of your obsolete Lenze parts when done correctly.
How partnering with EU Automation can help you with this manufacturer
EU Automation is a global leader in supplying automation parts. Ensuring easy access to the right parts, helping businesses avoid issues with obsolete parts and reducing business downtimes.
EU Automation offers global support for obsolete Lenze parts. This includes Lenze servo drives, 9300 series servo inverters, and frequency inverters. We offer comprehensive Lenze parts, global delivery, and consultations on how to move forward when a Lenze part becomes obsolete.
Conclusion
As manufacturers, it's a challenge to deal with the fact that components will eventually become obsolete. This is particularly the case when they come from trusted brands such as Lenze. This requires a proactive and multi-faceted approach. Knowing the different stages of Lenze's product lifecycle isn't just about monitoring the expiration date; it's also about planning for the future.
Starting with the "Available" phase, which directs new designs, and ending with the frantic "Last Call" for more parts, there are plenty of chances to set solid methods for handling unexpected at every level.
In the end, working with EU Automation can provide access to old Lenze parts worldwide and offers expert advice. We can turn a potential problem into a manageable long-term part of operating excellence.
