What is an Edge Bander?
An edge bander is a machine that produces thin strips of wood that are commonly known as veneer, which is applied to a variety of wood products to offer an attractive surface appearance. For example, veneer is commonly applied to furniture that is made of plywood or constructed wood-also known as particle board-to give it a more luxurious appearance. Veneer is also applied to solid wood products. For example, an oak chest of drawers may have its exterior covered in mahogany veneer to give the appearance of a fully mahogany product, which would cost significantly more than an oak product. Edge banding can also be accomplished manually. But for woodworking operations that produce a large volume of veneer products, a mechanized edge bander is usually a necessity. From small table mounted models to large floor mounted models that require a warehouse setting, edge banding machines offer a variety of production capacities. Although some woodworkers purchase high capacity edge banders under the impression that their production demand will soon necessitate a high capacity bander, the smartest decision is to purchase an edge banding machine that meets your current needs, especially considering how easy it is to sell a used edge banding machine when your needs change.
Is it Sensible to Buy Used Edge Banders?
In most cases, the more an edge-bander costs the more the discussion of buying it used comes into play. In the case of high capacity banders, a new bander can cost six figures, which is enough to dampen on a person's plans to take their woodworking operation to the next level. But purchasing the bander used can result in a 30 percent or more reduction of its original price. In addition, many sellers of used woodworking machinery offer attractive financing. For woodworkers that have only operated a small woodshop that contained low capacity woodworking machinery, the idea of buying used woodworking machines to start a new operation can seem contrary. But it's important to remember that industrial grade woodworking machinery is designed to last significantly longer than domestic grade and lower commercial grade machinery. In fact, large woodworking operations that could easily afford new machinery often buy used in order to increase their bottom line.
How do You Assess the Quality of Used Edge Banders?
Although industrial woodworking machines offer superior dependability and durability, it is important respect the fact that they are indeed used and evaluate your buying options accordingly. To make the best buy, you should follow four steps. First, you should only buy used edge banders from professional sellers of used woodworking machinery (e.g. avoid eBay merchants and company auctions). Second, you should investigate a seller's reputation at the Better Business Bureau. If the seller has unresolved customer complaints, it could be because its machinery doesn't live up to its billing. Third, ask for a copy of an edge bander's official maintenance record; if it hasn't been regularly maintained, don't buy it. Fourth, conduct a firsthand inspection of the machine to assess its wear, or have an expert third party perform the inspection. Following these steps should lead you to a used edge bander that offers new machine quality at a used machine price.
No comments:
Post a Comment