A Computer Numerical Control (CNC) router is the most valuable woodworking tool that many woodworkers own. Capable of producing basic pieces such as stair risers and intricate pieces such as medallions on furniture with equal ease, CNC woodworking machines are often at the center of a woodworking operation. For woodworkers, this means conducting a careful investigation of the equipment and its seller should precede buying a computer-controlled router, especially if the equipment is pre-owned. Below are tips for finding a quality, used CNC router for sale.
Buy reconditioned equipment
Pre-owned equipment that is reconditioned is less likely to experience problems than standard used equipment. The first priority should be to locate sellers who offer reconditioned equipment.
Test the spindle and axes
Test the spindle by operating it at several different RPMS (50,100,1000, etc.). If possible, perform the test under quiet conditions to listen for abnormal operating noises. To test the axes, ask the seller to run a rapid program that puts them in full stroke. As with testing the spindle, listen for abnormal sounds while the axes operate. A low growling noise could indicate faulty bearings or a bad ball screw.
Test tool changers
CNC woodworking machines have tool changers that should be inspected for alignment problems. As they operate, listen for unusual noises. Also, inspect the changers for abnormal signs of wear. Unusual noises and signs of unusual wear are often harbingers of repairs that will be necessary in the near future.
Inspect linear guides
The guides should be inspected for grooves and pitting—problems that could result from improper lubrication. The most reliable way to assess the condition of the guides is to remove the axis. If grooves or pitting are found—either of which could cause significant problems—the buyer should look for a different used CNC router for sale.
Inspect the level of the cutting table
If the cutting table has high spots or low spots, the computer guiding the cutting tool will not compensate for the problem. Instead, the spots will result in production errors. Some CNC equipment becomes misaligned after a certain period of use—an issue that could mimic a warped cutting board. However, it is easy to tell the difference between the problems: misalignment results in a gradual incline or decline of the table, whereas warping commonly produces sudden changes in the plane of the table.
Investigate the background of the seller
Investigating the background of the seller requires at least three measures: speaking with the references of the seller, checking the record of the seller at the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and ensuring the seller has been in business under the same name for at least two years. When a seller has strong references, a clean record at the BBB, and has been in business for a minimum of two years under the present name, it can be purchased from with confidence.
RT Machine sells pre-owned CNC equipment
RT Machine sells reconditioned CNC woodworking machines to professional woodworkers. If you are looking for a used CNC router for sale, we may have the equipment you need in stock. If not, our machine locator service will find it in another equipment inventory, and have it shipped to your location. To learn more about our products and services, browse through our website, or call us today.
