For many shops, the coordinate measuring machines they’re using are old and outdated. They’re manual machines purchased years ago to meet new customer demands for more precise measurements than calipers and gages were capable of providing. There’s also a good chance they were the cheapest machines available at the time. Given how industry has changed, you know this piece of equipment is causing bottlenecks and slowing down the shop. It’s time to upgrade your coordinate measuring, preferably to something that can collect and utilize data in less time and speed up the measuring process, especially an automated coordinate measuring machine.
But you still have to justify the ROI to your higher-ups. The good news is that with the help of used coordinate measuring machine dealers like Canadian Measurement Metrology (CMM), you can find used metrology equipment that delivers better performance. With a few retrofits like software and laser scanners, you can bring a used machine up to speed in no time.
#1 Guaranteed
Never buy a used coordinate measuring machine without at least a guarantee from the retailer. While a full warranty can be difficult to find for a used coordinate measuring machine, a damaged axis or bearings can render a machine unfixable. The guarantee offered by the company CMM is that the machine will work to specifications or better when it’s delivered to your shop floor. They ensure it’s functional through a rigorous testing system and repair any issues they find. This is not the kind of service you get when you go to an auction house or buy a machine directly from a shop. There’s a lot of unnecessary risk when you take these avenues. If you want to where to find used coordinate measuring machines, stick to reputable metrology dealers certified by the ISO.
#2 Find Someone Who Can Retrofit The Machine
If you’re replacing your coordinate measuring machine for better and more efficient technology, there may be a few upgrades and retrofits you need to make. The coordinate measuring machine’s frame will likely be fine, as this part doesn’t change much over the years. Equipment like scanners, vision systems, newer touch probes, controllers, and software are the big items to check. New software updates are released every few years, so make sure you’re not using an obsolete system. Metrology software updates make a noticeable difference on your throughput.
#3 Shipping and Set Up
Shipping a coordinate measuring machine is harder than it looks. If an axis is flipped or the bearings are damaged during transportation, it can be difficult to salvage the machine. Everything has to be strapped down perfectly. It pays to let a metrology shop do the work for you, especially if the company also checks your shop for set up. You don’t just need the space for your coordinate measuring machine, you need a source of air that won’t contaminate air bearings and a well-controlled electrical supply. A large number of coordinate measuring machine problems are due to air and power supply issues.
A used coordinate measuring machine will save you big time. Don’t forget to take all the expenses into account and make sure you’ve got all your bases covered.