Buying Used Press Brake: 5 Factors You Should Consider

Are you in the market for a used press brake? Look no further! In this article, I’ll be sharing essential information about used press brakes and why they can be a smart investment for your business. Whether you’re a small shop or a large manufacturing facility, buying a used press brake can offer significant cost savings without compromising on quality. So, if you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of purchasing a used press brake, keep reading!

What To Look For In A Used Press Brake

Condition

Once you start the search for a used press brake you will need to check the condition of specific items on the press brake in order to avoid paying costly repair bills and expensive downtime while its on your shop floor. Check the following items thoroughly:

Ram & Bed

Check the Ram and Bed of your used Press brake for any signs of damage including deformation, gouging or any other damage

Tool Holders

Both the Ram and Bed of a press brake have specific area to mount tooling and many press brakes have “segmented” tool holders that are removalble from the upper ram. Check these individually for the same signs of deformation, gouging or damage. Also NOTE the type of tooling the machine is designed for (American, European, New Standard etc, etc) as if you intend to use existing tools in your shop on your new press brake it will need to be compatible with the tooling your currently using.

Cylinders & Hydraulic System

Check the cylinders for excessive leaking and scoring on the cylinder walls.ON most press brakes (down acting types) the cylinders are located on the front of the machine at the upper right and left of the ram. Excessive leaking on a press brake cylinder could be sim[ply a cylinder seal adjustment, repacking or a costly rebuild. The hydraulic system in general should be inspected for cleanliness and leaks throughout the system.

Control

Check the screen brightness (if equipped). A CRT screen on a press brake control although dated, can still provide years of service and may even be upgradeable to the latest LCD technology. Check with the press brake manufacturer about support for this control (Generally you will find the more generic the control; i.e. Delem and Cybelec Controllers, the longer the support in parts and service is available. Whereas OEM built, machine specific controls such as the Accurpress ETS 3000 or Cincinnati Form-Master Control may only have a few years of serviceability before obsolescence as there are far fewer of these controls made and components are constantly being updated for cheaper and more reliable alternatives.)

Tooling (if provided)

If tooling is being included with your used press brake purchase, inspect it thoroughly for your intended use AND wear and tear. It is very common for tooling to be dented, deformed, cracked and simply worn out. Although this tooling may be included at no charge with your press brake you may find that it will cost you significantly in scrapped parts if you try to use it.

Age

Although a quality used press brake that has been well maintained can last for many years, we see available support becoming more difficult to get from the manufacturer especially where it is related to controls and back gages. If your used press brake is a simple manually operated mechanical or hydraulic machine without a CNC controller, its life can be well beyond 50 years from the date of manufacture however CNC controlled press brake machines older than 20 years are likely to be very difficult to find parts and service for.

Safety

Ensure your used press brake option will meet the safety requirements of your shop and OSHA regulations. While it’s not uncommon to have to add safety components (remember your still paying far less than new) such as light curtains, fencing, safety mats and the like, it should be calculated into your purchase decision ahead of time.

How To Inspect Used Press Brake

When contemplating the purchase of a used press brake for your business, conducting a comprehensive inspection is paramount to ensure it aligns with your requirements and is in optimal working order. Here are key areas to focus on during the assessment:

1. Physical Condition: Begin by scrutinizing the overall physical state of the press brake. Look for signs of damage, such as dents, rust, or wear on components like the frame, hydraulic system, and electrical parts.
2. Age and Usage: Evaluate the machine’s age and usage history. Consider the number of hours it has been operational and the nature of the work it has performed. Older machines may necessitate more frequent maintenance and repairs, impacting their longevity.
3. Functionality: Test the press brake to ensure all functionalities are operational. Verify the responsiveness of controls, buttons, and switches. Operate the machine across various functions and listen for any abnormal noises or vibrations. Confirm that safety features are functioning as intended.
4. Maintenance History: Inquire about the press brake’s maintenance record. Learn if it has undergone regular servicing and inquire about any significant repairs conducted. A well-maintained machine is more likely to deliver consistent performance and endure longer.
5. Brand and Model: Research the brand and model of the press brake to ascertain its reputation and reliability. Seek out reviews or feedback from other users to gauge its performance and durability. Established brands typically offer accessible spare parts and dependable customer support.

By conducting a meticulous inspection of a used press brake, you can make a prudent investment for your business. Assessing its physical condition, age, usage, functionality, and maintenance history will empower you to make an informed decision and mitigate potential issues in the future.

Summary

Investing in a high-quality, used press brake can be a wise business move, offering years of reliable service while saving a significant amount of money. These savings can then be allocated towards enhancing other aspects of your workshop or acquiring the exact tonnage press brake you desire. While understanding what to purchase is straightforward, navigating the process of how to purchase it can be challenging. This is where Krrass, Inc. excels. Our knowledgeable sales team specializes in bending and forming technologies, guiding you through the selection process to find the ideal press brake that meets both your requirements and budget constraints.