Many manufacturing companies have battled the idea of new equipment or
used trying to associated with best decision for the their company. Many
of my personal customers have recently been down this road and I have
discovered a whole lot from them and their collective experience and
here Identity like to share what I have learned.
The most upfront
factor to the decision of new vs used is cost. Much like used car
versus a brand new car cost is the very first thing we believe of.
However many decision makers do not take more then the up front cost
into mind. For example perhaps a brand new mill is $80, 000 while a
lightly used mill of similar design and specs is merely $60, 000.
This
sounds like a simple choice but lets think about the distinctions.
Firstly the new generator will generally have a 1 year warrantee and 2
years on the cnc spindle repair. Many used machines come with no guarantee and on a
machine of this price a guarantee could be worth approximately $4000.
Another
hidden cost of used machines is installation and training. With most
new machines all installation processes (set up, leveling, tests, and
adjustments for accuracy and performance) are integrated and provided by
manufacturing plant trained technicians and technicians. Also most new
machines include formal training on the product to ensure proper use,
maintenance, and any businesses the machine is capable of carrying out.
These expenses can run upwards of $3000 with regards to the level of
training and size of the machine.
It is also wise for a customer
to have the used machine inspected after arrival. This specific is
something the factory technicians would do in the installation of the
new machine. However on a new machine nothing is expected to be wrong. I
actually have seen used machines in a variety of conditions. Some of my
customers have bought used machines that were installed practically
new. Alternatively I have seen machines that needed tens of thousands of
dollars in repairs. One of the worst possibilities on a new or used
machine is shipping damage. Equipment contain many electronics and
fragile parts. A long bumpy truck ride through varied climates (high and
low humidity, hot and cold temperatures, thunder and snow storms, and
the very least suspected static electricity build ups) might have untold
impact on a machining center. The only peace of mind is the fact a new
machine warranted covers all aspects of these damages. And no sorry
shipment insurance generally will not cover these possible injuries on
any machine.
Remaining on the subject of repairs some research on
service should be done before selecting a new or used. Many brands that
are no extended being produced have no official service available.
However you may find that a former technician or group of technicians
have formed an independent repair company and may offer excellent
service on your used equipment. Be aware that there are many new brands
that might not exactly offer local service as well. Some companies only
offer service from their HQ which may or might not exactly be an
affordable distance to pay for travel on. Many reputable stores offer
their own service by sending their technicians for factory training to
provide customers with the best help possible. A person don't want to
pick a brand that needs regular service but its always comforting to
know someone will be there if you do need it.
Finally age is a
factor that should be considered in your decision. Carry out not
underestimate the improvements in technology through the years even if
they are not immediately noticeable. For example Fancy has made many
advances in their standard encoders make a major difference in
contouring and 3 DIMENSIONAL work. New machines also have many energy
traditional ideas built into them earlier machines did not consider.
Intramural Machining Centers are a fantastic example of being energy
conscientious. They will have many features to reduce way lube usage,
save energy (a low horse power spindle motor can deliver more torque
utilizing a 4 step geared spindle providing the customer with better
cutting power and lower energy costs), and low air pressure requirements
are meant to curb compressor usage. These things all add up to lower
upkeep costs, faster machining/ finishing times which all spell more
money in your pockets. Could this spell a cheaper new machine in the
long run then used for you? Don't take for granted a new machine will
have a much longer lifespan then used as well. That may be many years of
fixes you wont be paying for.
Now used machines do have many
benefits if purchased correctly. For example there are many wonderful
companies out there who sell used equipment after a thorough inspection
and repairs if necessary. Incidents where give a warranty, possibly at a
little payment that would be highly recommended to purchase. Used
machines provide a lower financial risk for smaller start upwards
companies with some mechanized know how. Though I actually recommend
leaving the fixes to professional factory trained technicians minimal
adjustments and repairs can be achieved in house at a cheaper cost. That
benefit can make a large difference to the smaller shops in the
beginning.
