Is a Used Robofil Worth Buying? What to Check Before Purchasing a Wire EDM Machine

New wire EDM machines are a major investment, so many companies consider buying a used Robofil. At first glance it seems like a great solution — lower price, quick availability, fast production start. Problems appear when the machine starts causing issues. A used Robofil can be an excellent investment… or a very costly mistake.

✅ Why Do Companies Choose Used Robofiles?

The reason is simple — price. A used machine can cost significantly less than a new one while still offering very good capabilities. Also: shorter lead time, proven and known design, immediate availability. For many companies it is a way to quickly enter wire EDM technology.

⚠️ Where Is the Catch?

The biggest problem with used machines is that their condition is not always obvious. A machine may look fine externally but have worn internal components, operate unstably or require costly repairs immediately after purchase.

🔍 What to Check Before Buying?

1. Technical Condition — See the Machine Running

Absolute baseline. Check whether the machine runs stably during cutting, no vibration and how it behaves under load. See it working, not just standing still.

2. Usage History

A machine that was in one company with regular maintenance will be a much better choice than one that was intensively used without technical oversight.

3. Wire Guidance System Condition

Wear in guide elements affects quality, causes problems and generates additional costs. This requires particularly close attention.

4. Dielectric System

One of the most commonly overlooked elements. Problems in the water system cause unstable operation, poor quality and frequent stoppages — and repairs can be expensive.

5. Electronics and Control

A machine may work well mechanically but electronic problems can be difficult and costly to solve. Check that everything responds smoothly and no error messages appear.

❌ Common Buying Mistakes

• Buying on price alone — the cheapest machine often proves the most expensive to run
• No testing — buying without seeing the machine under load is a major risk
• Ignoring details — small problems often indicate greater underlying wear
• No running cost analysis — purchase price is one thing; maintenance cost is another

🧠 When Does a Used Robofil Make Sense — and When to Be Careful?

A used machine purchase makes sense when the machine is in good condition, was regularly serviced and you can test it under production conditions before buying. If you do not know the machine's history, cannot test it, or ambiguities exist — stop and analyse carefully.