How to Buy a Used CMM Machine the Smart Way

If you work in manufacturing, you already know how effective coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) can be. CMM machines measure tiny or oversized parts with extreme accuracy, and they do it quickly.

CMM machines gave North American manufacturers an effective response to factories overseas using cheaper labour spurned by globalization. You can get even more efficiency from these ultra-efficient machines by buying one used.

Before you make your purchase, keep reading to learn why it’s smart to buy used CMM equipment from an authorized dealer.

Thorough Inspection

It’s unlikely that you have the experience and specialized knowledge to inspect a CMM machine. The best CMM machine dealers have tons of new and used CMM machines for sale that are reliable, and authorized dealers always inspect the major parts:

• Probing systems
• Airlines
• Bearings
• Drive systems
• Cabling

You can be certain that the used equipment you buy will work to specification. Expect the dealer you buy from to give you a warranty — it’s nice to take a company at their word, but getting a formal assurance is safer. They should be able to promise that if the machine doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to when it reaches your factory floor, they’ll fix it for free.

Website Preview

Industry-leading suppliers of metrology equipment will often post videos of their used equipment on their websites. That way, you can see the machine work yourself before deciding to buy it.

The company you buy from should be able to handle any accommodations you may need, from upgraded software, new fixture plates, or anything else.

Turnkey Packages

CMM machines are very sensitive, fragile, and they can also be quite large. Look for a dealer who can install and calibrate the machines themselves. They should also offer a turnkey package, which includes shipping too, so all you need to do is make the purchase, and they’ll handle the rest.

The best CMM machine dealers also offer training programs to learn how to operate the equipment and software.

Machinery Dealers National Association Code of Ethics

Finally, buying from a dealer that belongs to the MDNA and upholds its code of ethics is an excellent way to get peace of mind when buying used equipment. If you purchase these machines from a private seller or at auction, you’ll have to hope that the machines work for as long as possible.

In contrast, the MDNA polices its members to ensure they uphold their ethics code. Severe violations have resulted in expulsion. You can be positive they’ll give you accurate information about important aspects of the equipment:

• Manufacturer’s name
• Serial number
• Condition
• Specifications
• Adherence to standard industry terms and definitions

Dealers who belong to the MDNA are more reliable, and they’ll give you proper treatment at every stage of the transaction.

CMM machines have made factories across North America exponentially more efficient. If your company needs one of these machines, buying one used from an authorized dealer is the smartest and most cost-effective way to make the purchase.