Used Injection Molding Machine Buying Guide
Everything you need to know before buying a used injection molding machine. Brands, specifications, pricing, and inspection tips from 50+ years of expertise.
Buying Used Injection Molding Equipment: What to Know
Used injection molding machines can save 40-60% over new while providing years of reliable production. The key is buying from a reputable dealer, selecting the right brand and specifications for your application, and thoroughly inspecting before purchase.
Meadoworks specializes in used plastics processing equipment with inventory from Arburg, Engel, Husky, Milacron, Sumitomo, and other leading manufacturers. Our team can help you find the right machine for your needs.
Browse Injection Molding MachinesTop Injection Molding Machine Brands Compared
| Brand | Origin | Strengths | Best For | Value Retention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arburg | Germany | Precision, reliability, Allrounder series versatility | Medical, electronics, technical molding | Excellent |
| Engel | Austria | Large tonnage, tie-bar-less design, multi-component | Automotive, large parts, complex applications | Excellent |
| Husky | Canada | High-speed, PET systems, hot runners | PET preforms, closures, thin-wall packaging | Very Good |
| Sumitomo Demag | Germany/Japan | All-electric pioneer, precision, energy efficiency | High-precision, clean room, medical | Very Good |
| Milacron | USA | Broad range, good value, widespread service | General purpose, automotive, packaging | Good |
| Nissei | Japan | Reliability, two-platen design, value | General purpose, smaller tonnage applications | Good |
Key Inspection Points
- •Screw & barrel: Check for wear, measure flight depth. Worn screws affect shot consistency.
- •Platen parallelism: Uneven platens cause flash, uneven parts. Critical for precision molding.
- •Tie bars: Look for stretch marks, pitting, or damage. Expensive to replace.
- •Hydraulic system: Check for leaks, listen for pump noise, verify pressure stability.
- •Control system: Verify all functions work, check for error codes, test cycle consistency.
- •Overall condition: Cleanliness indicates maintenance care. Check for modifications.
Red Flags to Watch For
- ✕Unknown history: No maintenance records or uncertain ownership history.
- ✕Heavy wear: Excessive grease buildup, damaged guards, neglected appearance.
- ✕Inconsistent operation: Erratic cycle times, temperature fluctuations, strange noises.
- ✕Non-running condition: "Was running when pulled" often means hidden problems.
- ✕Obsolete controls: Old controls are hard to service and limit capabilities.
- ✕Price too good: Suspiciously low prices often indicate hidden issues.
Typical Used Injection Molding Machine Prices
Prices vary significantly based on brand, age, condition, and features. These ranges represent typical market prices for machines in good working condition (2024-2025):
Small Tonnage (50-150 ton)
$15,000 - $60,000
Budget brands lower, Arburg/Engel at top of range
Medium Tonnage (200-500 ton)
$30,000 - $150,000
All-electric and premium brands command higher prices
Large Tonnage (600+ ton)
$75,000 - $300,000+
Two-platen designs and specialty machines can exceed this
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of used injection molding machine?
Arburg, Engel, and Husky are generally considered premium brands with excellent reliability and resale value. Sumitomo Demag, Milacron, and Nissei are also well-regarded. The 'best' depends on your application—Husky excels in PET preforms, Arburg in precision, Engel in large tonnage and multi-component molding.
How much does a used injection molding machine cost?
Prices vary widely based on tonnage, age, brand, and condition. A used 200-ton machine might range from $25,000-80,000, while a 500-ton press could be $50,000-150,000. Premium brands like Arburg and Engel command 20-40% more than comparable Asian-made machines. All-electric machines typically sell for more than hydraulic equivalents.
Should I buy hydraulic or all-electric injection molding machine?
All-electric machines offer lower energy costs (30-50% savings), cleaner operation, faster cycles, and higher precision. However, they cost more upfront and require specialized service. Hydraulic machines are more affordable, handle demanding applications well, and have broader service availability. Hybrid machines offer a middle ground.
What should I inspect when buying a used injection molding machine?
Key inspection points include: screw/barrel condition and wear, platen parallelism, tie bar stretch and condition, hydraulic system (leaks, pump noise), clamp mechanism, shot consistency tests, control system function, and overall cleanliness. Request cycle time records and maintenance history.
Where can I buy used injection molding machines?
Reputable sources include industrial equipment dealers like Meadoworks, manufacturer certified pre-owned programs, and industrial auctions. Dealers typically offer inspected equipment with some warranty. Auctions can provide good values but are sold as-is. Avoid unverified private sellers for major purchases.
Find Your Next Injection Molding Machine
Browse our current inventory of used injection molding machines from Arburg, Engel, Husky, Milacron, and more. All equipment inspected and ready for production.
