Things to know befor buying a machine 4

[Redmar]

Hello,

My name is Redmar and I'm looking for a cut-to-length machine (blanking line). I am looking for second hand machines and I have found alot of machines.
Before buying a machine are there any general and specific tips you people can provide me so I don't see anything unexpecting.

Thanks for the help

 

[MiketheEngineer]

That is a big question -

Obviously check that all electrical, hydraulic and mechanical parts are working peoperly. Check all switches and monitors.

Cut to length requires very accurate and repeatable measurements. That is probably the most important aspect that needs to work perfectly all the time.

Get an idea how old, cycles, hours, etc that the machine has run.

You might even call in a factory technician to look over a promising machine and give his opinion on what it might take to renew it to factory specs. Money probably well spent.

I am sure their are many other ideas that will offered. Consider them all.

 

[arunmrao]

Availability of spares and maintenance costs. Is the OE still in business for support and advice?

When is the machine due for the next major overhaul. If it is in the near future,less than 6 months,it may not be a attractive machine.

For used machines normally cost of funding is high and options are limited.

 

[MikeHalloran]

Also, you want 'em heavy and dirty.

By which I mean...

that all things being equal, the heavier machine is probably more robust. Notable exception; concrete filled tin, sometimes found in machine tools.

and that, troublesome machines are kept clean, because repair technicians are always crawling through them. Machines that just flat run, develop a noble patina with use.

Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[ornerynorsk]

Star for Mike, you hit the nail on the head.

 

[Redmar]

Thanks for the information. Does anyone of you know if there is a handbook/manual, where to look for if you want to buy a machine(cut-to-lenght line). For example with specifications, tolerances etc.

 

[MikeHalloran]

Used machinery dealers try to give the basic specs for each machine in its auction listing, and may (or may not) have the OEM documentation to go with the machine, and may (or may not) understand the documentation they do have.

I'd be surprised if anyone would make claims about tolerances likely to be held by used machinery; it is, after all, used.

Realistically, you should assume that you will need an expert/factory service person to set up the machinery at your site, run a few performance checks, maybe make some sample parts, and list what is likely to need fixing soon.

In fact, if you can find a third party service guy in your area, consider paying him to go to the dealer or auction with you; he will know which machines you can't get parts for, and stuff like that.






Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA

 

[ABritTurner]

I always like to see a machine running before buying, the longer the test you give it the better. Suppliers are naturally reluctant to spend valuable time on customer unless they are sure you will buy, some can be downright rude. But its your money and it is no use buying machine that fails to do the job you want it to do.

Buying a machine on trust only works if you know the supplier well and get a guarantee for repairs for 3 months but you still need to prove that it will perform on your job with the correct tolerance.

If the machine is going to be complex and expensive to set up you could offer a certain price if it does the job or you could ask the merchant if you could speak to the last owner and he should eb able to tell you if the machine is capable, then you need to offer the supplier an incentive to run the machine to prove it.