The Process of Buying Your Used CMM

There are countless high quality used machines at your fingertips, so make the very most of these machines by taking the right steps. What may be the right used CMM for another manufacturer may not be the right one for you. Be sure to consider the different factors that will influence your final decision.

Consider the steps you will want to take to make sure you buy the best possible used CMM for your shop floor and maintain it accordingly. 

THE DECISION: Decide on the Right Machine for You

Size: How much room do you have on your factory floor? Do you need a smaller or larger machine? Consider the space you are dealing with, your scope of work, and plan accordingly.

Type of Machine: There are various types of CMM machines, and they are all designed differently and serve varying purposes. Consider what you are using the metrology equipment for so you can identify if you are looking for a used bridge, gantry, or portable CMM.

Retailer: What retailer are you going to buy your used CMM from? Be sure to purchase your used CMM from a retailer who maintains acceptable practices and is ISO certified. The best retailer to buy from will be one that offers:

• Proof of certification 
• Visual aids of its products
• A thorough testing process to ensure the integrity of a machine
• On-site customer service in case troubleshooting is needed. 

Use Online Catalogues: Browse online to identify the different used models available. Choose a retailer who has sufficient information on their website to help you make an educated decision. The best thing is to buy from a retailer that has all of their inventory online with visual and video aids for you to see the machine in action. 

THE PURCHASE: Buying Your Used CMM

When you purchase a used CMM, there are a few steps you will want to take.

1. Customizations: If offered by your retailer, you will want to coordinate any additional customizations for retrofits, software upgrades, etc. 
2. Shipping: Acquaint yourself with the retailer’s shipping practices. Have peace of mind knowing that your used machine will be packaged and shipped in a way that will maintain the equipment’s integrity.
3. Installation: When you get your machine, you will need to install it on your shop floor, your lab, or wherever you plan to store it. CMMs need to be stored in a neutral temperature to avoid humidity that can compromise the machines’ functionality. 

CTE Magazine reports that changes in temperature can cause the expansion, contraction, and distortion of a CMM’s scales, machine structure, and measured workpieces. Plan to make sure the area where you plan to keep your machine is suitable.

THE MAINTENANCE: Maintaining Your Machine After the Purchase

In the years following your purchase, necessary maintenance may include:

• Repairs: Mend any worn parts with the necessary repairs to avoid long term and expensive problems. 
• Calibration: Calibration compares your machine to another to ensure its accuracy and functionality.
• Software Updates: Update the software of your machine to ensure the system is up to date.
• Retrofits: Metrology News refers to CMM retrofits as “a complete CNC Controller and Software exchange which can also encompass replacing the measuring scales and rewiring of the machine.” You can retrofit your CMM to add any additional parts as your measuring needs change.

After you purchase and install your machine, take the necessary steps to ensure it continues to function at its full potential.