Make an Informed Decision on Used, Rebuilding, or a New Die Casting Machines

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL, December 14, 2023

The decision to rebuild or replace die casting machines often feels like a fork in the road for manufacturers. To make things more challenging, the dilemma often includes a third path- purchasing used equipment. Each approach comes with its own set of opportunities and obstacles.

To guide manufacturers through this complex decision-making process, this article explores the nuanced factors you must consider in navigating this choice.

Making an Informed Decision on Used Die Casting Machines

While the debate often focuses on rebuilding or replacing with new machines, there's a third path that often gets overlooked: purchasing used die casting machines. This option can serve as a middle ground, offering some benefits of both rebuilding and replacing. However, it comes with its own challenges.

• Safety Compliance: Ensure the used die casting machine meets the current safety standards in your jurisdiction, and be aware that your company will take on liability for the operator’s safety.
• Hidden Costs: While the upfront price may be lower, used machines will come with hidden costs such as repairs or modifications. Physically inspect the machine or have an experienced technician do so. Gather as much information as you can about the machine’s past, including maintenance records and modifications.
• Limited Lifespan: The machine has already seen some wear and tear. Check if there’s any warranty policy.
• Obsolete Technology: Older models may lack modern features like automation or real-time analytics. Make sure that parts (especially electronics) for the machine model are still being manufactured or readily available.
• Compare Costs: Don’t just look at the upfront cost. Include potential maintenance, upgrades, and operational costs in your calculations.
• Ask These Questions: Why is the company selling used equipment, or has the equipment manufacturer ceased operations? If it's closed, what were the reasons behind the closure?

Before purchasing a used die cast machine, we recommended going directly to the machine builder.

Click below to learn more about how our team can be of assistance when looking at a used Toshiba Machine or Shibaura Machine die casting machine.

Article on our Complimentary Used Machine History Reporting service.

Age Is More Than Just a Number in Die Casting: To Rebuild or Replace

The machine's age isn't just a numerical figure; it's a combination of many factors like wear and tear, outdated technology, and increasing operational costs. Knowing the age of your machine in terms of its operational efficiency can help you decide whether it's time for a rebuild or a transformative replacement. Below are a couple key factors to keep in mind as you navigate your decision.

Technology

When your die casting machine operates on legacy software or lacks modern features like automation, real-time analytics, or remote monitoring, you're quickly at a disadvantage compared to your competitors who have adopted the latest technology.

Signs to Watch For

• Decrease in the output rate
• Compatibility issues with new auxiliary equipment or software
• Is the original equipment vendor still in operation
• Obsolete or outdated electronics/technology

Wear and Tear

Every machine experiences wear as it ages. Elements like gears, bushings, and electronic circuits experience wear, decreasing machine efficiency. This decline is even greater if the machine has not been on a consistent preventative maintenance schedule, operates in demanding conditions, or around the clock.

Checklist: Is It Just Aging or Is It a Problem?

• Unplanned downtime frequency
• Unusual noises or vibrations
• Decline in product quality

To Rebuild or To Replace: Final Thoughts

The decision between rebuilding and replacing is far from straightforward. There are many factors to consider, such as the age of the machine, technological advancements, downtime implications, and your overall business strategy. While the hard costs like price and installation are easily quantifiable, the real on-the-floor operational costs often tip the balance. 

Whether you're leaning towards refurbishing an old workhorse or investing in the latest powerhouse, know that Shibaura Machine is committed to supporting you in whichever direction you choose. Our highly skilled service team provides extensive knowledge and a comprehensive inventory of parts, ensuring that we are fully equipped to assist and support our customers in today’s modern manufacturing. Additionally, our Die Casting sales team specializes in providing innovative die casting machines for those considering new equipment, making sure that you have access to the most advanced solutions in the industry.

Contact our Die Casting team to learn more.

Achieving manufacturing excellence has never been easier. 

Contact the Die Casting team to learn more:

• Phone: (888) 593-1616
• Email: dc-sales@shibaura-machine.com