Advantages of Buying Used Injection Moulding Machines
Investing in a used injection moulding machine allows manufacturers to access industrial-grade performance at a significantly lower cost than purchasing new equipment. These machines support high-volume, high-precision production and are a reliable way to scale operations efficiently.
- Lower investment cost – Access production-ready industrial machinery at a fraction of the new equipment price.
- Proven reliability – Many units come from well-maintained production lines with documented service histories.
- Faster return on investment – Reduced upfront spending accelerates payback periods and boosts operational efficiency.
- Access to premium brands – Acquire high-performance models from Arburg, Engel, KraussMaffei, Husky, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, Negri Bossi and others.
- Immediate availability – Avoid long lead times commonly associated with new machinery purchases.
- Transparent assessment and negotiation – Compare specifications, request inspections, and validate pricing using Exapro’s Valorexo benchmarking tool.
Main Technical Features of Used Injection Moulding Machines
Understanding key machine parameters ensures proper alignment between tooling, materials, production targets, and desired part quality. Below are the most critical specifications to evaluate.
Clamping force and tie-bar spacing
The clamping unit keeps the mould securely closed during injection. Required tonnage depends on the part’s projected surface area and material flow characteristics. Tie-bar spacing and platen size define the maximum mould dimensions the machine can accommodate.
Injection unit: shot weight and pressure
Shot weight determines how much plastic can be injected per cycle, while injection pressure controls mould filling accuracy. Screw diameter and L/D ratio influence melting capacity and material homogeneity.
Drive type and energy consumption
Hydraulic, all-electric, and hybrid drives each offer distinct advantages. All-electric and servo-hydraulic machines provide superior energy efficiency, precision, and repeatability, lowering operating costs.
Mould space and configuration flexibility
Key parameters include minimum/maximum mould height, daylight, ejector stroke/force, and available core pull circuits. Quick-change systems help reduce setup time between production batches.
Control systems and automation
Modern PLC/HMI systems enable recipe management, SPC monitoring, alarm diagnostics, and integration with robots, conveyors, hot-runner controllers, and inline quality-control devices.
Maintenance and spare parts availability
Choosing machines from brands with widely available spare parts and established service networks minimises downtime and extends operational lifespan.
Top Brands and Models
Exapro features used injection moulding machines from globally recognised manufacturers known for precision engineering, technological innovation, and production reliability.
- Arburg Allrounder – highly flexible, suitable for multi-material, insert, and precision moulding.
- Engel victory / e-motion / duo – tie-bar-less technology, electric precision lines, large-tonnage capabilities.
- KraussMaffei CX / PX / GX – advanced controls and stable performance across small to large tonnages.
- Husky HyPET – specialised high-speed systems for PET preforms and closures.
- Sumitomo (SHI) Demag IntElect / Systec – energy-efficient electric and hybrid solutions.
- Negri Bossi eNEXT – electric series offering precision and reduced energy consumption.
- Wittmann Battenfeld SmartPower / EcoPower – compact machines with integrated automation options.
Availability varies depending on the used machinery market, but all machines undergo verification before being listed to ensure they meet Exapro’s quality standards.
Industries and Applications
Injection moulding is one of the most versatile and widely used manufacturing processes, enabling consistent production of complex plastic components at scale.
- Automotive – dashboards, connectors, bumpers, structural components.
- Packaging – caps, closures, thin-wall containers, technical packaging.
- Medical & pharmaceutical – syringes, housings, device components, validated high-precision parts.
- Consumer goods – toothbrushes, toys, containers, appliance components.
- Electronics – connectors, enclosures, micro-components.
- Construction – fittings, panels, PVC components, heavy-duty parts.
The versatility of injection moulding makes it indispensable across any industry requiring consistent, repeatable, and high-quality plastic components.
Pricing and Cost Factors
Pricing for used injection moulding machines varies widely based on tonnage, brand, age, configuration, and available automation. Understanding the full cost structure helps buyers make informed decisions.
- Brand, age, and condition – newer machines from premium brands typically command higher prices.
- Clamping force and tie-bar spacing – larger machines capable of handling big moulds are more expensive.
- Injection unit specifications – shot weight, screw condition, and injection pressure strongly influence value.
- Drive type – all-electric and hybrid machines often cost more upfront but reduce long-term energy costs.
- Automation level – robots, hot runners, QC systems, and peripherals increase value.
- Maintenance history – documented service reduces buyer risk and increases machine valuation.
- Total cost of ownership – includes energy consumption, spare parts, training, and installation.
Use Exapro’s Valorexo pricing algorithm to benchmark asking prices against real market data and ensure fair negotiation.
How to Select the Right Injection Moulding Machine
Matching the correct machine to your moulds, materials, and production requirements is essential for achieving stable performance and optimal cycle times.
Define production requirements
Identify target part size, weight, materials (PP, ABS, PC, PA, glass-filled compounds), required tolerances, and cycle time objectives.
Match mould and machine specifications
Confirm clamping force, tie-bar spacing, platen size, and mould height compatibility with your existing or planned tool.
Assess power, footprint, and integration
Verify electrical requirements, space constraints, safety systems, and compatibility with automation such as robots or conveyors.
Inspect mechanical and hydraulic condition
Evaluate screw and barrel wear, pumps, valves, drives, controller health, oil condition, and any leaks.
Evaluate energy efficiency
All-electric or servo-hydraulic systems significantly reduce operating costs in high-volume production.
Plan long-term serviceability
Ensure availability of spare parts, documentation, and a local service network to minimise downtime.
Consult experts
Exapro can help shortlist machines, coordinate inspections, and provide logistical guidance tailored to your production needs.
Find the Right Used Injection Moulding Machine for Your Business
Browse our latest listings of used injection moulding machines on Exapro and connect with verified sellers worldwide. With technical guidance, expert advice, inspection support, logistics coordination, and pricing tools like Valorexo, Exapro helps you upgrade your plastics production line with confidence.