New To You: Saving With Rebuilt Cutting Machines
By: Bruce Peterson, President, Colter & Peterson
Today’s competitive climate in the graphic arts industry makes it more important than ever to find ways of saving money without compromising quality and service to customers. With this in mind, consider two of the most basic ways of saving on capital improvements—upgrading existing machinery and buying rebuilt equipment.
Upgrading your company’s machines by retrofitting them with new features is one way to obtain the latest technology at a lower cost. This alternative works best for companies with a larger fleet of equipment, since it usually means operating without the machine for six to ten weeks. The expense of shipping the machine to and from the facility performing the upgrade must also be taken into account.
Purchasing a used machine is a more popular option and can allow your company to own equipment that might otherwise be out of reach. Many companies trade in an existing machine for one that is already rebuilt, rather than attempting to have their current model upgraded. The cost of a rebuilt machine may be as much as 30 to 50 percent less than the price for a new model. And you don’t need to sacrifice reliability to protect the company budget; a piece of rebuilt equipment from a reputable supplier usually comes with a warranty to guarantee performance.
Paper cutters are an ideal item to buy used, and an excellent example of this money-saving strategy. While technology has radically changed many processes in printing, binding and finishing, paper cutters have remained virtually unchanged in their basic operation. All paper cutters have a table on which to place materials, a clamping system to hold them in place and a means of forcing a knife through the material.
Machine Makeover: The Rebuilding Process
The rebuilding process is not just a matter of adding on a new feature; done right, it involves a complete overhaul of the machine and a thorough testing to ensure proper performance. The mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical components are inspected and their condition is assessed, then the equipment is disassembled for cleaning.
Mechanical parts are resurfaced and, if badly worn, repaired or replaced. Hydraulic units and gearboxes are rebuilt and reattached. Pneumatic systems get an upgrade and electrical systems are updated and retrofitted to comply with the most recent ANSI safety standards. This is also the time when other new features are added.
Although the mechanical design of a machine can’t be changed, the control and safety systems can be updated. Outdated electrical components and mechanical systems are replaced with new circuitry that is up to ANSI and OSHA codes. Original back gauge control systems are retrofitted with a back gauge computer, designed to be added to any type of paper cutting unit. Mechanical safety features mandated by OSHA are incorporated such as a two-hand start, two-hand hold, anti tie-down requirements and prevention of the crush hazard associated with machine foot pedals.
Resale Savvy: What to Consider When Buying Rebuilt Equipment
Think carefully about what the machine will be used to cut and what size your company requires. Some manufacturers claim their paper cutters can cut any type of material, but experienced operators know certain machines are better suited for specific varieties. Do your research, gather information and consult with a distributor.
Examine your machine size requirements. If your company is in the market for a larger paper cutter, buying used will save you even more money. The gap in price between new and used machines grows according to size. This proportional savings can be an added incentive to shop for rebuilt equipment.
Check references and do the footwork to ensure you are dealing with a reputable, reliable company you can trust, one with the necessary knowledge and experience to deliver on what they promise. The safety of your machine operators and success of your company depends on properly-functioning equipment. Make sure the machine comes with a warranty and review it carefully, since what it covers can vary widely according to the rebuilt model.
Inspect and test your machine prior to delivery. Good companies will encourage customers to do this. As part of the sale, ask for a guarantee that your company will receive a full refund of any deposit if the machine does not perform as required and meet your satisfaction upon arrival.
Paper cutters are viewed by many binding and finishing companies as pieces of support equipment, and are often not at the top of the list when it comes to where they want to spend precious capital improvement dollars. For this reason, it makes good business sense to explore the rebuilt equipment market as a way to meet their needs.
Bruce Peterson is President of Colter & Peterson, the largest independent distributor of paper cutters and paper handling equipment in North America. Employing more than 75 people in five locations, Colter & Peterson specializes in every facet of paper cutter and perfect binding acquisition and ownership, including maintenance and repair, machine sales, safety and productivity upgrades, surplus machines and more. Contact Bruce at (800) 932-0780 x206 or bruce@colterpeterson.com.
