Used CNC machines are seeing a huge growth in their demand, more people in the world of manufacturing are looking to buy used CNC machines, especially hobbyists and those just starting or have small or medium sized machining shops. One of the primary reasons behind the growth in demand is the savings in upfront costs that can be achieved by buying a used CNC machine over a completely new one. But is that the only reason? The answer is NO. There are several other reasons behind the growing demand for used CNC machines, and in this blog, we will discuss them in detail.
Top reasons behind the growing demand for used CNC machines:
Here are some of the top reasons why you are seeing a huge growth in the demand for used CNC machines in recent times:
- Lower upfront costs: The first and most important reason behind the growth in demand for used CNC machines is their lower costs compared to modern CNC machines. If you are just a hobbyist machining person or starting your own manufacturing business, then it’s obvious that you are not going to have such a high budget to buy the modern CNC machines, but you can get the used ones easily without breaking the bank. The affordability of used CNC machines is helping small businesses to acquire high quality CNC machines of top brands like DMG Mori, Haas, Mazak, Okuma, and then scale the business without any large initial investment.
- More accessibility: Previously, it was not easy to buy a used CNC machines as you would have had to find out a CNC shop that is currently planning to sell its old CNC machines or participate in auctions or find out shops that sell used CNCs, but now you can buy a used CNC machine by just scrolling your internet browser. Platforms like MachineStation have made it very convenient, easy, and seamless for people to buy used CNC machines at an affordable price, even from well-renowned brands.
- Proven track record: Used CNC machines come with a proven track record of performance, as you can know how they have functioned, if there is any part that has been replaced or repaired, or if there’s any part that is not in the best condition. So you get a kind of knowledge about how to operate and maintain the CNC machine in the future.
- Faster ROI: As we discussed, used CNC machines come at a low cost, so when you’re trying to start a new shop or planning to finance the purchase of the machine through a loan, then buying a used CNC machine makes more sense. As you will be able to recover the loan money fast, and even if the business doesn’t work out, you won’t have a huge debt on yourself and will be able to pay the loan back by working on something else.
- Skilled labour shortage: Another big obstacle in the way of purchasing the modern high-end CNC machines of top brands is that they need highly skilled operators who understand automation and IoT features and can set up a multi-axis CNC machine. There is a huge shortage of skilled laborers all around the world, so even if you buy a new high-end CNC machine, you will have to spend a large amount on training your existing operators or will have to hire new operators at a high salary.
- Overall growth in manufacturing: Last but not least, the high demand for used CNC machines is due to the overall growth of the manufacturing economy all around the world. As more and more software jobs are getting automated, hardware is becoming a safe destination, so people are starting small and medium sized manufacturing and machining shops, leading to growth in demand for used CNC machines.
Best refurbishment practices:
Now, when you buy a used CNC machine, one thing that may make you worried is some defective part or problem with machining, but that can easily be solved by following different practices of refurbishment. So, how can you solve that? There can be several things to be done. Firstly, you can decide to repair or replace the parts that are not working properly. Secondly, you can decide to change work on changing the basic things like electrical connectivity and the coolant system. Thirdly, you can put up some colouring on the outside to give it an even better look. Finally, you can add some upgradation features like automation or smart factory features, and you will get the feeling of a completely new CNC machine.
Who is benefiting the most from used CNC machines?
Here is the top group of people who are benefiting the most from buying used CNC machines:
- SMEs and startups: The budding startups or small businesses have tight budgets to invest in initial purchases, so used CNC machines become a great option for them to save money and get the technology.
- Hobbists: There are some people who love spending time with machines and doing some small-scale fabrication works and other machining works, and they’re able to do their hobby with the help of used CNC machines.
- Training institutes: Training institutes that teach young people about operating CNC machines and other manufacturing work often buy used CNC machines to minimize cost and yet give their students a real world experience.
Conclusion:
Used CNC machines are great choices for those who are getting started with machining work or have small or medium sized shops. But at the same time, you need to be very aware of what you are going to buy and from where you are going to buy, and if you are finally thinking about buying a used CNC machine, then we would ask you to check our collection of used CNCs.
