CNC machines are among the major investments in manufacturing industry. When selling them, their value is affected by a number of factors – technical condition, brand, type of machine, control system, equipment, the way they have been used and current market demand.
What is a CNC machine?
CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control. CNC machines make it possible to machine material automatically and precisely according to a program prepared in advance. They include, for example, CNC milling machines, lathes, machining centres, CNC grinders, lasers, CNC woodworking machines, drilling machines and other specialised machining technologies.
In a buyback, it is not only the machine itself that can be of interest, but also its control system, drives, motors, accessories and other components.
Technical condition of the CNC machine
One of the most important factors is the technical condition of the machine. A functional and regularly maintained CNC machine is generally worth more than equipment that has been shut down for a long time, is damaged or non-functional. The assessment looks at:
- the condition of the mechanical parts,
- the condition of the spindle,
- machining accuracy,
- the condition of the motors and drives,
- hydraulics and pneumatics,
- electrical equipment,
- the control system,
- the condition of the cabling,
- whether the control panel works,
- the availability of documentation.
Does it make sense to offer an old or non-functional CNC machine for buyback?
Even a non-functional CNC machine can still have value if it contains preserved components and spare parts. The following can be used:
- motors,
- drives,
- control systems,
- electronic modules,
- spindles,
- hydraulic components,
- mechanical parts,
- other spare parts.
Age of the CNC machine
An older CNC machine can still be worth a lot if it is:
- from a reputable manufacturer,
- in good technical condition,
- fitted with a sought-after control system,
- regularly serviced,
- suitable for further use or refurbishment.
Conversely, even a relatively new machine may be worth less if it is damaged.
Manufacturer and brand
A reputable manufacturer can have a significant effect on value. When determining the price of a CNC machine it is therefore important to know:
- the manufacturer,
- the exact model,
- the serial number,
- the year of manufacture,
- the type of machine,
- the configuration.
Control system
With CNC equipment, the control system also plays a significant role, as it affects:
- the possible uses,
- compatibility with software,
- the availability of service parts,
- the possibility of modernisation.
Configuration and equipment
Two CNC machines of the same model need not have the same value; the difference may lie in their equipment and configuration. The more interesting the configuration is for potential further use, the greater the interest in a particular machine can be. The value may be affected by:
- the number of controlled axes,
- the type and power of the spindle,
- automatic tool changing,
- the number of tool positions,
- the cooling system,
- the material feeder,
- extraction,
- measuring systems,
- clamping devices,
- magazines,
- additional accessories.
Regular maintenance
A CNC machine that its owner looked after regularly can be worth more than comparable equipment with no known service history. When selling, it is therefore a good idea to include service records, maintenance documentation and technical documentation.
Availability of spare parts
If particular components are no longer manufactured or are hard to obtain, this can complicate further operation of the machine, which reduces its value. On the other hand, some older components can be of interest precisely as spare parts for existing machines.
Current market demand
Value is also affected by the current market situation and the level of interest in a particular type of equipment. Some machines can be attractive to companies looking for a more affordable solution instead of buying new technology; others can be of interest as a source of spare parts.
Documentation
The more information you can provide during the buyback, the easier it is to assess the value. You should prepare:
- the manufacturer,
- the model,
- the serial number,
- the year of manufacture,
- the type of control system,
- the technical parameters,
- information on whether it works,
- information on when it was last used,
- photographs of the machine and its labels.
Do you have a CNC machine you no longer need?
PLC EXPRES deals in the purchase of industrial equipment and automation. Besides CNC systems, we can also handle other industrial machines, equipment, robotic components, conveyors, handling equipment and production lines.
Do you no longer need a CNC machine in your production? We will be glad to help you sell it.