Bringing New Life to an Almost 50‑Year‑Old System: A BMU Refurbishment by Manntech
At the Kohlhammer Publishing House in Stuttgart, a Building Maintenance Unit (BMU originally commissioned in 1978) was still reliably in operation after decades of service. Approaching nearly 50 years of use, the system demonstrated the robustness of its original design but was ready for a technical upgrade to meet today’s safety and performance expectations.
Rather than replacing the entire system, the client chose a smarter and more cost‑effective solution: a comprehensive refurbishment. Manntech, known for its long history and expertise in exterior access systems, was clearly the right choice for the job.
Smart Refurbishment Using Original Design
As the successor of Mannesmann AG, the company that originally built the BMU, Manntech has access to the complete original technical documentation for this project. This made it possible to carry out a more detailed and reliable refurbishment. For every worn part replaced, a new corrosion protection system was applied, and modern drive motors were installed. The BMU was also updated with a new control system and a frequency-controlled soft start, making it safer and more efficient.
In addition, the original gondola was replaced with a new, lightweight aluminium version designed by Manntech. This allowed the core structure of the nearly 50‑year‑old system to remain in place, while bringing its performance fully in line with current standards.
Quick and Easy Installation
Installation was completed in just three hours, with almost no impact on the building’s daily operations. One of the major benefits of refurbishing rather than replacing infrastructures was the ability to keep the original rail system and avoid making changes to the roof structure. This not only saved time and money but also reduced disruption to the building.
Proven Reliability Through Experience
Despite the age of the BMU, Manntech’s well‑organised archives provided access to every required technical detail. The system’s long service life, still operational after almost five decades, was clear evidence of the quality of the original design. The refurbishment has now extended this service life even further.
Better Than Before and Ready for the Future
The refurbished BMU now operates more efficiently and reliably than ever before. As part of the project, the client also received a complete and up‑to‑date documentation package, including all necessary certificates and confirmations required for safe and compliant operation.
This ensures the system is not only technically upgraded, but also fully documented and ready for continued use in the years ahead.
This project is a strong example of how a carefully planned refurbishment can deliver the benefits of a new system without the cost and complexity of starting from scratch. Manntech’s deep experience and focus on long‑term value made all the difference.