Buying used CNC routers can be a rewarding experience when an individual or company takes the right precautions. Secondhand purchasing offers a cost saving opportunity for small or large facilities in need of routing equipment. A CNC tool can deliver improved accuracy, increased design possibilities, and shorter production times in a factory setting. They are capable of cutting, shaping, or drilling wood pieces to the exact specifications set up in a design program. The technology has helped numerous large-scale factories gain the following specific benefits:
- Reduced Material Waste
- Decreased Costs
- Safer Working Atmosphere
- Improved Productivity
- Enhanced Product Creation Capabilities
- Dependable Operations
Hobbyists or smaller facilities seeking these same capabilities must invest a large sum of money to obtain a new CNC device. Choosing used woodworking equipment for sale over alternative options can ease the cost for companies wanting to take advantage of this technology.
Used Woodworking Equipment for Sale: Where Should a Buyer Begin?
Several factors must be considered as an owner evaluates used woodworking equipment for sale. It is best to research the following information upfront before committing to a machine purchase:
- Previous Owner
- Reasons for Selling
- Extent of Use
- Maintenance Record
- Remaining Lifespan
- Current Condition
This will help ensure the equipment will last, operate correctly, and be a solid investment for a business. Buyers should evaluate required functionality before researching used CNC routers to guarantee the acquisition of a beneficial device. Various design types, manufacturers, and individual models are available. The wrong choice can decrease reliability or cause a buyer to spend more than is necessary to obtain desired functionality.
Each CNC unit will have one of three drive system options—a lead screw, ballscrew, or rack and pinion. The type of drive system will contribute to the total cost and determines the machine’s capabilities. Ballscrew models offer the best sizing possibilities and are the most accurate. Alternatives do not always deliver a clean cut, but could be more suitable to your needs, depending on wood piece size and other factors. The motor should also be evaluated when purchasing used woodworking equipment for sale. A stepper motor performs movements by supplied pulses, whereas a servo design has constant monitoring for position correction. Stepper designs do not receive any type of feedback and have reduced torque capabilities over servo alternatives. Servo designs entail the highest cost due to advanced technology.
A buyer considering vacuum systems should investigate supplied pressure along with the equipment’s ability to keep the material in place. Increased force allows for a heavier cut on certain materials or specific application situations. Application needs must be thoroughly expanded to determine what spindle types are required and can be used in conjunction with the machine. A tool changer is another option to consider if used CNC routers are to be implemented in a production environment. They are not essential for hobbyists, but are beneficial for manufacturing facilities requiring the use of multiple tools during parts creation. Size and cost are additional contributing decision factors every buyer must consider before making a decision. A better purchase can be obtained by knowing the tool’s history and completing an upfront assessment of woodworking needs.
