Heidenhain Encoders: Why the Manufacturing Date Matters

Heidenhain encoders are found in virtually every servomotor, particularly those from Siemens. Yet one critical element is frequently overlooked during reconditioning: the encoder’s manufacturing date.

At E-Servo, we apply a simple rule:

Encoders are always replaced with new or reconditioned units. Because an encoder is far more than just a sensor. It plays a central role in servomotor operation: it measures rotational position and speed to ensure precise servo control of the motor.

To put it plainly, it guarantees the precision, reliability and stability of movement.

A Real Example From Our Workshop

We occasionally receive servomotors that have already been “reconditioned” by a third party. Recently, a motor came through our workshop fitted with a Heidenhain encoder dating from 1996.

Yes, the motor was functional — that is true. But an encoder nearly 30 years old represents a genuine risk to your entire production line.

And in an industrial environment, an unexpected failure can quickly lead to a costly production stoppage.

Beware of False Reconditioning

Not every motor advertised as “reconditioned” genuinely is.

In some cases, the work is limited to a quick clean, a coat of paint and a few basic tests — with no component replacement whatsoever.

Yet a genuine reconditioning must include the inspection and replacement of key components, including the encoder. Remember: an old encoder may be running today, but could fail tomorrow.

How to Read the Manufacturing Date on Your Heidenhain Encoder

If you have any doubt about whether your servomotor has been genuinely reconditioned, there is a very simple way to check: look at the manufacturing date on the encoder.

To help you, we have created a decoding table for Heidenhain encoder manufacturing dates.

● Related posts