Insider Advice: What Successful Manufacturers Consider Before Buying a Used, Second-Hand, Pre-Owned, Surplus IBS Precision Engineering ISARA 400 CMM 3D coordinate measuring machine made in The Netherlands?
Below is a professional, manufacturer-focused guide on what experienced buyers carefully evaluate before purchasing a used / second-hand / pre-owned / surplus IBS Precision Engineering ISARA 400 CMM (3D Coordinate Measuring Machine) made in The Netherlands.
A high-precision metrology system like the IBS ISARA 400 is not a typical second-hand purchase. This machine is designed for ultra-high accuracy, often reaching nanometer-level measurement capabilities, and is typically used in aerospace, semiconductor, optics, and advanced manufacturing. Because of its sensitivity and technological complexity, experienced manufacturers follow a strict evaluation checklist.
Below are the key factors that successful buyers always consider before investing in a pre-owned ISARA 400 CMM.
1. Confirm the Machine’s Calibration History
The ISARA 400’s performance depends heavily on traceable calibration cycles. Buyers check:
- Date of the last accredited calibration
- Calibration performed by IBS Precision Engineering or an authorized partner
- Certification traceability (ISO 10360 or equivalent)
- Drift values and linearity data
- Whether original calibration reference artefacts are included
If calibration documents are missing, most manufacturers require a complete recalibration at IBS before production use.
2. Evaluate Environmental Conditions of the Previous Facility
The ISARA series demands near-laboratory conditions. Experienced buyers verify:
- Temperature stability (±0.1°C or better)
- Humidity control
- Vibration isolation (air tables, anti-vibration pads)
- Air cleanliness (ISO 6–7 or better)
A machine used outside these parameters may have lost micrometer or nanometer accuracy.
3. Inspect the Granite and Air Bearings Carefully
Key structural components to check:
- Granite base integrity, chips, cracks, or surface wear
- Air bearing health, including pressure stability and leakage
- Surface straightness and flatness
- Axis play or resistance
Any deviation can significantly degrade measurement accuracy.
4. Confirm the Original Software and Licensing
ISARA 400 machines extend their capabilities through advanced software. Buyers confirm:
- Software version (IBS Metrology suite, specialized ISARA modules)
- License validity
- Dongles / activation keys included
- Compatibility with modern CAD and GD&T packages
- Availability of upgrades and support from IBS
A unit missing software credentials may require costly relicensing.
5. Review Machine Usage Profile
Serious buyers ask for:
- Total operating hours
- Type of components measured (optics, aerospace, small precision parts)
- Whether the machine was used for R&D or continuous production
- Service logs showing part replacements, bearing maintenance, and sensor checks
Low-hour R&D units are the most desirable in the second-hand market.
6. Check the Probe System and Accuracy Package
ISARA 400 typically uses specialized probes. Verify:
- Probe type (scanning probe, ultra-precision probe, tactile probe)
- Tip wear or replacement history
- Calibration sphere/artefacts included
- Thermal compensation hardware
- Sensor repeatability test results
Probe replacements can be expensive and may require IBS integration.
7. Evaluate Upgradeability and OEM Support Status
Since precision metrology evolves quickly, buyers confirm:
- Whether the serial number is still supported by IBS
- Availability of firmware updates
- Availability of spare parts
- Lead time for OEM support
- Whether the machine can be retrofitted with new probes or software
Older unsupported units may still be accurate but carry operational risk.
8. Check the Machine’s Transport and Installation Requirements
These machines are extremely sensitive to handling. Professionals confirm:
- Proper packaging (factory-style transport frame)
- Environmental conditions required during transport
- Reinstallation requirements in their own facility
- Whether IBS must perform installation to maintain accuracy guarantees
Incorrect transport can instantly destroy calibration.
9. Verify the Acceptance Testing Possibilities
Successful buyers always perform or request:
- Before shipping: demonstration of accuracy on customer-selected test parts
- After installation: onsite acceptance test (ISO 10360 or similar)
- Repeatability and stability testing over 24 hours
- Documentation proving the machine meets original factory specs
Any deviations must be negotiated into the price.
10. Analyze the Market Value and Total Cost of Ownership
When evaluating a used ISARA 400, consider:
- Year of manufacture
- Software package included
- Calibration status
- Condition of probes and granite
- Shipping and reinstallation costs
- Cost of potential factory recalibration
The cheapest unit is rarely the best choice in ultra-precision environments.
Final Recommendation
The IBS ISARA 400 is one of the most accurate 3D CMM systems ever built. A well-maintained second-hand unit can deliver extreme precision, but buyers must:
- Demand complete traceability
- Verify environmental requirements
- Perform acceptance testing
- Ensure OEM support availability
Manufacturers who follow the above checklist consistently avoid costly mistakes and secure high-value, high-accuracy machines that perform like new.
