In brief
OEM (original equipment manufacturer) refers to the original manufacturer of a machine, plant or component that sells the product under its own name.
Contents
What is OEM?
In mechanical and plant engineering, the OEM is usually the manufacturer of the complete machine. It develops the machine but installs many components from other manufacturers in it, such as bearings, drives, valves or controllers. These suppliers are in turn the original manufacturers of their respective components. The term is therefore used differently depending on the perspective.
For spare parts procurement, three categories can be distinguished. The genuine spare part is obtained via the machine manufacturer, often under its own part number. The component manufacturer's OEM part is the same component, obtained directly under the part number of the actual manufacturer. An aftermarket part comes from a third-party supplier and is modelled on the original without being identical to it.
This distinction is important for maintenance because availability, documentation and warranty can differ. Knowing the manufacturer part number of the installed component often gives more sourcing options than the machine manufacturer's part number alone. At the same time, it helps in deciding whether an aftermarket part is acceptable or whether the original should be used.
In practice: maintenance and procurement
In machine manufacturers' spare parts lists, it pays to determine the manufacturer part number of the actual component for each item, for example via the nameplate or data sheet. For warranty or maintenance contracts, it should be clarified in advance whether parts from other sources are permitted.
Synonyms and abbreviations: original equipment manufacturer · original manufacturer · machine builder · OEM part · genuine part
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an OEM part and a genuine spare part?
A genuine spare part is obtained via the machine manufacturer under its part number. An OEM part is often the same component but procured directly from the component manufacturer or through its sales channels. Technically, both can be identical, but the part number, sourcing route and documentation differ.
What is an aftermarket part?
An aftermarket part is made by a third-party supplier and is intended to replace an original part without coming from its manufacturer. Quality ranges from equivalent to significantly worse. Before use, dimensions, materials and performance data should be checked and suitability for the specific application approved.
How do you find the actual manufacturer of a component?
Clues are provided by the component's nameplate, embossing or printing, the machine documentation and the machine manufacturer's spare parts list. The component's manufacturer part number can be used to find the data sheet and further sources of supply. If this information is missing, dimensions, photos and the installation situation help.