Insight

Repair over replacement: the rise of spare parts

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the sales of genuine spare parts, reflecting a broader market trend towards repairing rather than replacing products. Graham Barker, Sales & Service Director at Riello Burners in the UK, Carrier RLC EMEA, explains how using original parts for repairs can not only extend the life of burners, but also ensure they operate safely and efficiently.

Riello spare parts

Increasing demand for spares

The global industrial burner market size was valued at USD 5.83 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 9.85 billion by 2031. The growing demand for spare parts is driven by several key factors and reflects a broader market trend towards repairing rather than replacing products.

Industry insights reveal that customers are increasingly opting for repairs to extend the life of their equipment due to the high costs associated with new installations. The economic pressure on both businesses and consumers has made the repair and maintenance of existing equipment a more viable and cost-effective option, thereby driving up the demand for genuine spare parts.

This trend is further accelerated by the rising awareness of environmental sustainability, as repairing and maintaining existing equipment reduces waste and conserves resources.

Additionally, the increased focus on extending the lifespan of industrial equipment through regular maintenance has highlighted the critical role of high-quality spares in ensuring continuous and efficient operation.

The substantial increase in the cost of living has also played a significant role, pushing both commercial and residential users to prioritise cost-effective solutions like repairs, thus boosting the demand for reliable spare parts.

The importance of genuine spares

The use of genuine spare parts is critical in maintaining the safety and performance of burners. Authentic spares are designed and tested to meet the specific standards of the original equipment, ensuring compatibility and reliability. The availability and quality of these spares directly impact the operational efficiency and safety of the products.

Genuine spares are subject to continuous research and development (R&D) programs aimed at monitoring and enhancing their quality and performance. This in-house control allows manufacturers to swiftly react to any requirements or improvements as they arise, maintaining the integrity of burners throughout their lifecycle.

This rigorous testing process helps to mitigate the risks associated with non-genuine parts, which may not adhere to the same quality controls and could compromise the burner’s functionality and safety.

Non-genuine parts often lack the precision engineering and durability required for optimal performance, potentially leading to increased wear and tear, higher failure rates and even hazardous situations.

Responding to market trends

The increasing sales of spare parts reflect a broader market trend towards repairing rather than replacing products. This shift underscores the importance of genuine spares, to not only extend the life of the burners, but also ensure they operate safely and efficiently.

The use of genuine Riello spares is integral to maintaining the high standards we set for our products. This commitment is particularly critical in the current market environment, where economic pressures and the rising costs of new installations have driven a significant shift towards repairing rather than replacing products​.

Continuous investment in R&D allows for the development of spares that enhance the life of products. With proper servicing and preventive maintenance, many burners remain in operation for over 20 years, still performing efficiently. This long-term reliability is testament to the quality and durability of the products.

The role of research and development at Riello

Our continuous investment in research and development allows us to innovate and respond proactively to market needs, ensuring that our spares enhance the durability and efficiency of our products. For instance, the development of advanced burner technologies to meet stringent emission regulations underscores our dedication to both environmental responsibility and superior product performance​.

As we continue to innovate and adapt to the evolving market landscape, Riello remains dedicated to delivering excellence in every aspect of our business. This includes not only the products we manufacture but also the comprehensive support and high-quality spare parts that ensure our customers can rely on Riello’s burners for years to come.

Image credit: Riello