There is an increasing rise in consumer demands to improve the quality of products in the manufacturing sector. It has made coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) essential for company quality departments.
But surprisingly, many buyers still find themselves stuck with equipment that does not meet their needs. Because of the machines’ growing importance, extensive research and planning must go into each purchase. Read on and discover five things to consider when buying a CMM for your business.
1. Operational and Visual Transparency
Looking for used CMM machines for sale can be more challenging if you have no idea what the product looks like or how it works. To make things easier, try searching for a retailer with a website where you can browse pre-owned machines online and look for the best one for you.
It is advisable to purchase a product from a trustworthy seller who will show you exactly what you are getting. Some CMM retailers even upload videos online so you can see how the machines work and their full features.
2. Equipment Check and Certifications
Choose to buy from a retailer who runs complete equipment checks for every machine they sell. A full inspection will help sellers confirm a CMM’s functionality. It will also tell them if any more repairs, retrofits, refurbishments, or retrofits are needed.
Every machine must undergo an assessment to ensure the functionality and security of the following components:
- Probing systems
- Bearings
- Airlines
- Drive systems
- Cabling
Furthermore, knowing that a used CMM underwent a complete check will give you peace of mind about getting a product that is up to certification standards.
For instance, Canada offers a Controlled Goods Certification to manufacturers and retailers registered with the Controlled Goods Program and meets the government standards.
3. Machine Performance
When evaluating a used or a brand new CMM, you must always think of performance. The machine’s overall performance can impact manufacturing productivity.
But when it comes to CMM performance, you must keep in mind that one size does not fit all. It must feature a combination of the right technologies that will best suit your specific application requirements.
Choosing the right system throughput, precision, measurement capacity, and sensor combination will ensure that you will have the best product that can address your needs.
4. Working Space
Before making a CMM purchase, you should think of your working space. Are you placing the machine on the production floor? If yes, you should be aware that dust particles, temperature, and humidity can affect measurement results in these environments. If you place the machine on the shop floor, you might need a more rugged system that can withstand these conditions.
5. Measurement Requirements
If you want highly-accurate measurements, you should buy a CMM that meets your stringent requirements. Some elements of the machine to consider include:
- Machine structure: Do you need a moving bridge, fixed bridge, cantilever, or gantry CMM structure?
- Fixed probe head or indexing: Do you need a fixed probe head, which is more precise, or do you prefer indexing wrist and probe combinations, which offer added flexibility?
- Scanning or touch-trigger probing: Do you want scanning probes that collect data faster? Or do you want touch-trigger ones to avoid higher calibration time?
These are only some of the things to keep in mind when buying a CMM for your manufacturing projects. With this guide, you will surely have a machine to meet all your measurement needs.
