If you own a manufacturing business that makes large, small, or complicated parts, a CNC machine may be the ideal piece of equipment to have. CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. CNC machines are guided by computer instructions that control specialized tools such as lathes and mills to create precise cuts in various materials. You can purchase a new or used CNC machine, depending on your budget and your company’s preferences.
A CNC machine uses a variety of methods and tools to remove material from a base piece. Depending on the manufacturing needs and the type of material being used, a CNC machine may drill, turn or mill the base piece to create the desired angles and shapes of the finished product.
What to Look for When Buying a Used CNC Machine
When you’re buying a CNC machine that’s previously used, it’s important to know what to look for in a quality piece of equipment. After all, you want to make sure the used machine you purchase is still in good working order and will serve you reliably for years to come. Before buying a CNC that isn’t brand-new, here are some of the most important things you should look for:
- The right type of CNC machine
- How many hours the CNC machine has logged
- History of service and maintenance
- Reputable sellers
There are many different types of CNC machines, and some may be more appropriate for your needs than others. You’ll want to research the various categories of CNC machines to figure out which type is the best fit for your business needs. Examples of some of the most common types of CNC machines include grinders, lathes, routers, milling machines and laser cutting machines. Some machines work better for wood while others may be ideal for making parts out of plastic or other materials.
Once you learn how to buy a used CNC machine that meets your output needs, you’ll want to look at the hours logged on a given machine before you buy it. If a machine has a high number of logged hours, it might work just fine for a small business with low product demand. But a large business with a high order demand might want to invest in a machine with fewer logged hours.
Another thing you’ll want to consider before buying a used CNC machine is how well it was maintained by its previous owners. If possible, ask to review the cleaning and maintenance logs as well as receipts of services performed. Sellers may not always have these documents on hand, but it’s worth asking. If a CNC has been well-maintained, it’s more likely to perform well for you.
Finally, don’t forget to purchase your CNC from a reputable seller. Honesty is important when it comes to buying any piece of used equipment, and some sellers are certainly more honest than others. You can learn a lot about a seller’s honesty by taking a look at online reviews from other buyers who have purchased from the seller. Honest and reliable sellers are more likely to have a positive online reputation.
Find the Right Machine Today
Now that you know what to look for when buying a CNC that has been previously used, it’s time to do some shopping. To get an idea of what machines are available for purchase, check out the impressive selection of used CNCs at Premier Equipment. You are also welcome to reach out to us if you want to sell your used CNC.
Contact us today through our user-friendly online form for more information. We’ll respond to your queries as soon as possible. For immediate assistance, give us a call at 407-786-2000 and ask to speak with one of our CNC experts.
