In industry, it is almost impossible to imagine production processes without large machines dedicated to a wide range of tasks. These machines are increasingly the subject of major technological developments aimed at optimising their performance. In the metalworking field in particular, it is unthinkable for a workshop not to have at least one type of milling machine for its core work.
Thanks to their full automation, CNC milling machines have taken the lead in the series production of countless parts required in the most diverse technical and professional sectors. This type of machining centre is often the centrepiece of the production process because of its effectiveness and outstanding results.
Every growing workshop or new business in the industrial sector generally sets itself the goal of high efficiency in its core processes, with a view to achieving a return on investment as quickly as possible and avoiding the risk of significant losses. With that in mind, the ideal is to have the most effective machinery for the job, and a used CNC milling machine stands out as the best option thanks to its price and proven performance.
What is a used CNC milling machine?
A milling machine is a machine tool used in industry to manufacture or finish parts of different materials, shapes and sizes. The process it performs on the workpiece is chip-removal machining using a rotating cutting tool, known as a milling cutter. The materials it typically works on are metal, wood and plastic, processed according to predefined design parameters and techniques.
There are different types of milling machine, used mainly in metalworking as well as in other industrial fields. They are classified mainly by the number of axes, the orientation of the spindle or their special operating features. The most common include the bed-type milling machine, the turret milling machine, the gear milling machine and, of course, the CNC milling machine. However, given the versatility of these machines, there are also hybrid designs that combine aspects of different categories – a CNC bed-type milling machine, for example.
The CNC milling machine
A CNC milling machine is a type of milling machine that emerged from the technological development of industrial machinery. It is known for its high level of automation and the great precision of its processes. It is also distinguished by three essential components: computer numerical control (CNC), a range of milling tools and an automatic tool changer.
This type of machine tool far outstrips other milling machines in productivity, but for that very reason buying a new one is a major investment that is not within everyone’s reach. However, opting for a used or second-hand CNC milling machine is a very sensible choice, at more affordable prices, with proven operating quality and a warranty of at least one year.
What to consider when buying a used CNC milling machine
A used CNC milling machine, like any other second-hand machining centre, often undergoes a renovation and upgrade process known as “retrofitting” or “retrofit”, with state-of-the-art components to make the most of its capabilities, with guaranteed quality and at a lower price.
The most important step before buying a used CNC milling machine is to define the applications it will have to cover in the workshop where it is to be installed, as well as the maintenance it will require once commissioned.
In addition, there are a number of recommendations that should also be taken into account:
- Preferably choose a manufacturer known for its reputation and quality.
- Check that the machine tool has been inspected by the seller beforehand.
- Prioritise machining accuracy and tool change speed.
- Check whether the numerical control has been renewed or can be replaced.
- Assess whether the machine complies with CE standards.
- Consider details that optimise operations.
- Buy equipment with a warranty of at least one year.
- Take advantage of options that include after-sales service.
Although it may seem difficult, choosing a second-hand CNC milling machine is not too complicated. Fortunately, those who auction or sell these machines usually do so after replacing them with the latest innovations on the market, in pursuit of maximum performance; but the machine tools on offer are also usually fully operational and multifunctional, and may well be from the best-known brands.
In short, a used CNC milling machine is a type of second-hand machine tool that can use computer numerical control as the core of the machining centre, or as an essential component of more conventional or specialised milling machines. Buying a second-hand milling machine always means weighing up a number of important aspects but, once acquired, the benefits can be far greater.