Industrial robots have been taking over manufacturing operations for years. The installation base for industrial robots continues to grow across the world with more companies looking to automate with robots for either the first time or to add to their pre-existing robot systems. Purchasing a robot does not always mean having to buy new. Companies are instead choosing to purchase second-hand robots for their automation needs. The second-hand robot market has only continued to grow along with the demand for used robots. Many of today’s popular models including the ABB IRB 6640 and the FANUC R-2000ib, can only be purchased on the used robot market. The reason for the continued demand and popularity of used robots is because of their many benefits with the top ones including:

• Affordability - Purchasing a second-hand robot is much more affordable than buying a new one. Buying a used FANUC M-10ia can save companies between 40% to 60% of the cost of its new robot equivalent. Most companies wonder what a used robot costs. Generally, pricing on used robots will not exceed $40,000, although there are some limited examples in which the robot costs more. That is a significant amount of savings that can allow manufacturers both big and small to automate their productions without breaking the bank. Spending less money upfront provides the ability for manufacturers to quickly capture their return on investment (ROI). In addition, multiple used robots can be purchased for the price of one new robot for the ability to completely automate an entire production line at once. Buying a used robot is a great option for those with tight budgets but who still want to take advantage of the benefits of robotic automation.








• Reliability - Common misconceptions about purchasing second-hand robots are that they will be poor quality and will not last as long as a new robot. Just because you are spending less money on a used robot does not mean it is any less reliable than a brand new one, especially if you purchase a pre-owned robot from a reputable company such as Robots Done Right. Well maintained second-hand robots can operate for several years to even several decades due to their long shelf-life. Robots can run for well over 100,000 hours in their lifetime, buying a used robot does not mean it cannot last as long as a new unit. Used robots are reliable options that can operate like new and will provide the same automation benefits for a fraction of the price.


• Saves Pre-Existing Robotic Systems - Since robots have a long lifespan many companies are still operating with older robot models. For instance, the Motoman HP20 has not been manufactured for years but is still very common across various assembly applications. A manufacturer who already utilizes this robot on their production lines and is looking to add additional robots or replace it would be best to purchase second-hand since the Hp20 is no longer produced. Purchasing second-hand allows the manufacturer to buy the same robot or one that is similar. This allows for easy installation and integration with their pre-existing robotic system. A new industrial robot may not be able to be integrated with older equipment and could lead to an entire overhaul of the automation system previously in place. This would be costly in both time and money to a business. Purchasing used saves money and also allows for manufacturers to integrate pre-existing controllers, end-effectors, power sources, or workcells.