Page 52 - MetalForming April 2014
P. 52
Hydraulic Presses
50 MetalForming/April 2014
www.metalformingmagazine.com
situations the quick purchase of a used press, which has to then be retrofitted to fit the project or facility requirements, can result in a comparable, if not longer, lead time than a made-to-order press.
For both options, it’s impor- tant to consider carefully every conceivable pre-startup time requirement, to make the best procurement decision while min- imizing project surprises.
When planning a project time- line, consider:
• When will the press be available?
• How long will it take to trans- port the press to the metalforming facility?
• How long will upgrades and retrofitting take?
• How long will testing take before the press is operable?
4) Are inhouse maintenance resources well-developed?
Any new custom press will feature modern components, OEM service- and-support resources and a warranty. This trifecta will, in most cases, act as a substantial buffer against unplanned downtime, lost production and angry customers. This especially is true for organizations without robust mainte- nance teams, and therefore lack the availability and knowledge required to maintain aging equipment. However, metalforming operations that do have solid inhouse maintenance personnel capable of keeping vital equipment running will be better able to gamble on used hydraulic presses.
Regardless of a manufacturer’s inhouse maintenance capabilities, those searching the used market should closely evaluate the age, condition and operation of any previously operated machinery. It’s important to know, prior to making any commitments, where the press was used and why it is for sale. Shoppers also should request any and all available service records, which will indicate how well the previous owners maintained the equipment.
Components used on custom-built presses often are cataloged items readily available from local distributors. Alternatively, some older used machines may require replacement parts no longer being manufactured. Metalformers should research the availability of replacement parts for any press being considered.
This information will either instill a sense of confidence in the used-pur- chase decision, or raise red flags that will help avoid disaster.
Service and Support
Whether you buy new or used, be sure to ask these questions regarding service and support:
• Who do we call if we need service or support? Even if it is not the same company you bought from, be sure to identify a contact person for support.
• What is the cost of service and support, and do we pay hourly, by a contract, per visit, etc.?
• What is the average turnaround time on a support call?
• What are the expected annual maintenance requirements for the press, in terms of time and expense?
• When was the last time this machine was serviced? Who performed that service?
• Is there anyone available that my internal maintenance team can contact with questions? MF
Article provided by Beckwood Press, St. Louis, MO: 636/343-4100; www.beck- woodpress.com.
