Guidelines for Purchasing Used Laser Marking Machines (with a List of Items to Check)

This article offers a practical guide to avoiding the pitfalls of buying second-hand laser marking machines, including advice on checking machine performance, identifying common pitfalls and a checklist for inspecting machines.We help you quickly master the techniques for selecting a laser marking machine, avoiding used or inefficient equipment, and ensuring that your investment is worthwhile.

Why are second-hand laser machines prone to problems?

Many friends think that second-hand equipment has a good price-performance ratio, but the market in fact is a bit of a mess.Some sellers will use refurbished casings to hide aging core components, or conceal how long the equipment has been in use.Even worse, some of these machines may not even be compatible with the software systems currently in use, so that they become "scrap metal" as soon as they are brought home.Don't rush to place your order--understand these key points first!

These are three questions you need to ask yourself before you buy.

What exactly is your requirement?

First, think clearly about the type of material you wish to mark (metal, plastic or ceramic), the required precision, and the quantity.For example, the parameters for stamping stainless steel and plastic are completely different. You don ’ t want to be misled by the seller and buy the wrong type of machine.

Is the budget worth it?

Secondhand equipment typically costs 30-60 % of the price of new machines. But if the cost of repairs exceeds the difference, it is better to buy new.It is recommended that buyers find out the price of a new model of the same type and compare it to the price of a used model plus the estimated cost of repairs.

Can you find a reliable channel?

They will give preference to equipment with a manufacturer's inspection report, or to a technician recommended by someone they know.Deals are often cheap, but there is no guarantee. If you're a beginner, it's best to avoid this route.

Five items that must be checked in a field inspection.

Testing the life of a laser.

You can ask the seller to open the back of the printer and show you the usage time of the laser. If the usage time is more than 70 % of the rated lifespan, you should not consider buying it.Feel the temperature near the lamp socket. If it is abnormally hot, the bulb may have a burnout problem.

Testing of the movement system's precision.

The ink is then dried.I move the X and Y axes back and forth ten or twenty times, and listen to see if the rails make any strange noises.

Software compatibility certification.

Bring a USB flash drive with files in the most commonly used formats (DXF, PLT, etc.) and try them out on the machine to see if any errors are reported.Pay special attention to the version of Windows, as many older machines do not support Windows 10.

Check the cooling system.

If the cooling equipment is not working well, the temperature of the water reservoir will increase, which will affect the precision of the machine, and in the worst case may damage the laser tube.Remember to open the cover and check for dust on the heat sink.

Records of replacement of expendable parts.

I asked about the replacement time for the high-wear parts such as the lens, the mirror and the pump.If the seller can't provide a clear record, it's best to pass.

A lazy man's checklist.

Check the model number and label information.

2. Stability testing for continuous operation of two hours.

3. Check to see if all the accessories (such as focusing lenses and calibration tools) are present.

Ask to see the last three months of repair records.

5. Check to see whether software licenses can be transferred.

Finally, I would like to remind everyone not to get carried away when they see words like "fire sale" and "bargain basement prices.A good seller will gladly show you all the details of a good product. If someone is pushing you to pay, they probably have something to hide.By checking out a few different places, you're sure to find the right second-hand equipment!