My name is Louie Avilés, and I serve as the Regional Sales Manager for Illinois at Mac-Tech. Over the past 15+ years, I’ve immersed myself in the world of press brakes and other metal fabrication equipment—evaluating, selling, and supporting machines that power some of the most advanced manufacturing floors in our industry. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of helping customers find the right piece of machinery to drive their business forward, and I’m excited to share my approach to evaluating used press brakes to ensure a truly smart investment.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that each machine has a story—its year, its usage habits, and its maintenance history. By combining my technical know-how with a customer-centric approach, I tailor my evaluations to align with your production goals and floor constraints. It’s an honor to guide clients through this essential decision-making process, and below, I’ll detail how I evaluate used press brakes before recommending them.
Drawing on 15 Years of Hands-On Press Brake Expertise
I’ve spent countless hours on shop floors across Illinois, assessing press brakes in real-world production settings. That hands-on experience has taught me the nuances of each machine’s capabilities—whether I’m dealing with a classic hydraulic press brake or the latest servo-electric models. By examining the year of manufacture and scrutinizing how the machine has been serviced, I can paint a more accurate picture of its long-term reliability.
Being deeply involved in the metal fabrication sector also means staying updated on corresponding technologies, from advanced lasers to sophisticated tooling. My approach is holistic: I look at how the used press brake will integrate with existing machinery, how much downtime to expect during installation, and what upgrades—if any—might be needed. It’s all about making sure that our clients aren’t just investing in a press brake, but in a seamless addition to their production workflow.
20/21 EVOIII 2600-100 Hybrid CNC Press Brake
- Tonnage: 110 Ton
- Bed Length: 8.5′
- Between Housings: 82″
2021 Ermaksan Speed Bend Pro 3760-220 (12.34′ by 242 US Ton) 6 Axis Hydraulic Press Brake
- Tonnage: 66 T
- OA Length: 4.16′
- Control: CNC (DELEM 58T 2D Graphical)
Crafting Tailored Machine Assessments for Your Unique Production Goals
Every client has different needs. Some require a compact machine for short-run prototypes, while others are seeking robust models for large-scale production. By understanding your current throughput, part complexity, and future expansion plans, I can zero in on used press brakes that match your goals. There’s a tangible difference between picking a machine that “could work” and one that’s truly optimized for long-term success.
Because Mac-Tech offers a wide array of machines—from entry-level options to state-of-the-art systems—I ensure that you’re getting the correct mix of performance and value. Rather than focusing on a quick sale, I take time to gauge your tolerance for downtime and whether a slightly lower-priced machine could actually cost more in maintenance and lost productivity over time.
Ensuring a Smart Investment Through Thorough Condition and Capability Evaluations
I always advocate a detailed walk-through of the machine’s condition. This involves checking the hydraulic system, CNC controls, ram parallelism, back gauge functionality, and the software interface. There’s also the important question of tooling compatibility—especially if you’re looking to incorporate existing tools. This thorough evaluation can help forecast potential refurbishing costs and whether the machine’s condition aligns with your production timeline.
However, it’s not all about ensuring a used press brake runs well right now; I also look at its potential for future upgrades. For instance, if the software can be updated or if the controls can be reconfigured to accommodate new part designs, you’ll have more flexibility down the road. Ultimately, a properly vetted used machine will deliver dependable performance for years to come.
Fostering Long-Term Success with Mac-Tech’s Dedicated Client Support
When clients invest in a used press brake through me, they aren’t just getting a machine—they’re gaining Mac-Tech’s support network. Our team of technicians and parts specialists backs you with responsive service and an extensive inventory of spares. We pride ourselves on being that reliable extension of your production team, ready to troubleshoot and keep downtime to a minimum.
Whether it’s upgrading your current line with laser technology or adding another press brake to bolster capacity, Mac-Tech’s goal is to nurture a long-term partnership. We’re in the business of advanced manufacturing solutions, which means staying with you as your workflow evolves and your product lines expand. This level of partnership is what ensures that your investment pays dividends well into the future.
FAQ
How do I calculate ROI on a used press brake?
Consider total purchase costs, potential refurbishments, and the machine’s projected productivity. Factor in how a more efficient press brake can reduce cycle times and labor costs, ultimately accelerating your return on investment.
What should I look for in terms of machine maintenance history?
Ask about service records, upgrades, and repairs. These details provide crucial insight into how well the press brake has been cared for and any potential upcoming maintenance needs.
Can a used press brake keep pace with rapidly changing production demands?
Absolutely, if it’s chosen with future flexibility in mind. Many machines are compatible with software updates or controller enhancements that can keep them competitive.
What about tooling compatibility for older used press brakes?
Always verify the tooling style and consider whether adapters or new tooling might be required. Adopting universal or widely available tooling can help streamline operations.
How can Mac-Tech help with ongoing support and training?
We offer innovative training solutions, on-site service calls, and strong manufacturer relationships for spare parts, controls, and tooling to keep your production running smoothly.
I hope this guide helps you feel more confident in evaluating a used press brake before making that crucial investment. My team and I are here to discuss your unique production goals, share insights, and help guide you every step of the way. Let’s work together to find the most effective solution for your operation.
For more info: 888-MAC-9555, or find me on LinkedIn. I’m always just a call or an email away at (847) 627-6009, louie@mac-tech.com. If there’s anything else you need, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’d be delighted to assist you.
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