Buying a Used Measuring Machine From a Dealer

As the production in your shop increases, it’s important not to forget how you’re going to face your growing inspection needs. The need for accurate data and quality components doesn’t change despite your growing orders. You can outsource parts inspection for small contracts and temporary work overloads, but if you have a consistent and committed increase in your demand, you may get a better ROI on a used coordinate measuring machine. They don’t undergo the same strain as other tools, and their mechanical structures can last up to 35 years with proper maintenance.

If you want to know what kinds of refurbished metrology instruments are available on the market, take a look at the list of used CMM machines at cmmxyz.com/used-cmms. Before you jump in, though, there are a few things you should know about buying preowned equipment from a dealer.

Coordinate measuring machines are built to last, but you usually can’t tell at a glance if it’s been well maintained. Damage to the surface table is a good sign that you should avoid it, but most issues come from the bearings. If you can visit a dealer’s facility, ask to see the equipment in action. If that’s not possible, ask to see to videos of it. Reputable vendors always refurbish, calibrate, and test all of the metrology equipment they buy.

Ask about retrofits: if an instrument comes with retrofitted parts, you can wind up with a great bargain as the price will be based on its pre-retrofit value. If non-OEM parts have been used, do your research. If the retrofitted pieces were made by a major manufacturing brand and installed by a recognized metrology company, they’re likely to be valuable additions. You can also discuss with a dealer any upgrades a used coordinate measuring machine may need to match your in-house needs. The metrologists at Canadian Measurement-Metrology Inc. frequently make upgrades and customizations.

If you’ve seen auction prices, you may wonder why you should go with a dealer at all. The truth is, you will likely wind up contacting a metrology company anyway to get your purchase up and running. A respected vendor will install and calibrate your used coordinate measurement machine and guarantee its operation. Technicians put every piece of equipment through rigorous tests to ensure that accuracy will meet ISO standards.

To recap, follow this checklist before you invest in a used coordinate measuring machine:

• See any used CMM equipment in operation before you buy anything.

• Consult with your metrology dealer on your precise specifications; retrofits and customizations are common.

• While warranties are rare with preowned metrology instruments, reputable vendors will guarantee its operation once it’s installed on your shop floor.

• Buy from a well-known manufacturing brand since they keep replacement parts available for longer.

• Remember that buying from a well-known dealer means the prices of everything, including refurbishment, installation, and calibration are included.

Trust a well-known metrology company when you’re in the market for a used coordinate measuring machine and rest assured that you’re getting a great value for your investment.