Choose the machine that can reliably run your mold, resin and output requirement at an acceptable total cost. A newer machine is not automatically the better choice, and a well-known used brand is not automatically safe: configuration, measured condition, service access and system compatibility matter.
Which specifications come before the purchase price?
Prepare the product drawing, resin grade, part and runner weights, mold dimensions, cavity count and target output. Check clamp requirements with a competent process specialist rather than choosing tonnage from part weight alone. Verify tie-bar spacing, platen dimensions, mold thickness range, opening/daylight, ejection and interfaces.
Review injection volume, screw configuration, injection pressure/speed capability and material compatibility for the actual process. Nominal shot capacity may be stated using a reference material; confirm how it relates to your resin and application.
| Factor | New machine: questions to ask | Used machine: questions to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Process fit | Does the quoted configuration meet the mold and resin requirements? | Does the actual fitted unit meet them, not just the original brochure? |
| Condition | What factory tests and commissioning are included? | What wear, repairs, alarms and acceptance tests are documented? |
| Support | Who provides installation, training and local service? | Are parts, controller support and service still available for this model? |
| Auxiliaries | Which dryer, chiller, loader, mold controller and handling systems are included? | Are included auxiliaries functional and compatible with the destination utilities? |
| Economics | What is the complete installed cost and realistic delivery plan? | What is the installed cost after refurbishment, testing and missing equipment? |
For PET preforms, compare the complete system
A PET project involves the machine, mold, hot runner, material drying/handling, cooling and downstream requirements. Supplier claims about output should identify resin, part weight, cavity count, cycle assumptions and utilities. Confirm compatibility and test conditions for the complete proposed system. A low machine-only price is not a complete production-line quotation.
How should you compare energy and output claims?
Ask for comparable evidence under defined conditions. A cycle time or power figure without the mold, resin, machine configuration and measurement method is hard to use. Evaluate scrap, uptime, operator requirements, utilities and maintenance alongside throughput. Avoid assuming a universal saving from “servo,” “electric,” a brand name or manufacturing country.
What makes a used machine a sensible option?
A used machine can be attractive when it fits the application, its condition is documented, essential parts/support are available and the complete cost leaves room for repairs and commissioning. Stop if critical safety functions cannot be assessed, controller support is unavailable or the seller will not agree a meaningful test. Do not treat a category photograph as evidence of a unit currently for sale.
Technical reference
Husky describes PET production as an integrated machine, mold and auxiliary system. This supports evaluating the whole process rather than selecting by machine price alone.