Vimak gains a competitive edge thanks to servitization with IIoT

Vimak s.r.l. is a leading supplier of highly specialised technological solutions in the field of machine tools: CNC, multi-axis lathes and vertical and horizontal machining centres. The company decided to make high quality service its hallmark, and chose IXON Cloud as the enabling solution to achieve that.

Challenge

The focus in the manufacturing industry is shifting from a product- centered to a customer-centered approach. Therefore Vimak wanted to create more value for their technological solutions, and gain a competitive edge through servitization. 

Solution

Vimak uses the IXON Cloud platform to monitor the machines in the field throughout their lifecycle. The simplicity, flexibility and scalability of the platform have led Vimak to standardise IXON across all machines. All machines are sold or rented with the IXON Cloud platform already installed and ready to use. In this way, customers immediately experience the advantages of remote access for a 360° service.

'Thanks to IXON Cloud we intervene remotely as if we were in front of the machine. This allows us to carry out diagnostics in real time, solving software-related issues immediately and preparing for on-site trips in advance. Moreover, we get data-driven insights on critical components, so we can guarantee our customers with the availability of spare parts'' says Riccardo Erasti, Sales Director at Vimak.

In addition to time and cost reductions, Vimak benefits from the high degree of collaboration enabled by the platform. The supplier assists the customer in the delicate commissioning phase, which is crucial for the training of operators and the correct operation of the machinery. 

In fact, both Vimak and the customer can collaborate by directly accessing information such as machine status, production data, critical parameters and the name of the operator. A remote assistance service structured in this way allows the company to optimise the work of its technicians. It also helps them to minimise costly service trips and prepare the necessary spare parts in advance.

The demand for digital services is constantly increasing, especially in companies that are experiencing a generational change.

_{Riccardo Erasti Sales Director at Vimak}

Conclusion

At the end of the warranty period, Vimak offers customised service packages. The customer perceives these packages as an added value, and appreciates the innovation of the proposed solutions: 'The demand for digital services is increasing, especially in companies that are experiencing a generational change. For Vimak it is fundamental to guarantee the highest quality of service in every aspect,’’ says Erasti.

Want to know more about servitization and how to approach it? Read our ebook: 'Service opportunities for OEMs that boost revenue and meet customer demands'.