Kuka thoroughly tests all robots and their components before selling them. © Kuka

Selling your used robot directly back to the manufacturer has several advantages: Firstly, he is a specialist in his field and is therefore best placed to assess both the condition and performance. "Secondly, we are usually listed as a supplier to the companies and therefore have access to the factory halls, know our way around on site and can therefore dismantle the old equipment quickly and efficiently," says Rostri. "Large companies, such as those in the automotive industry, often replace entire production lines with dozens of robots. This can certainly be a logistical problem for smaller recyclers - for us, it's part of our day-to-day business."

The issue of payment should not be underestimated either: As a rule, there is not yet a new buyer for the used robots, but the customer rightly expects an immediate payment for the machines. These payments are much easier to make for a large company than for a private supplier.

For buyers, on the other hand, a used robot can be an interesting alternative to buying a new one. For example, smaller companies that want to venture into the field of automation can keep costs down by opting for a used robot from the manufacturer. An investment that can pay off. As a rule, robots reduce personnel costs, as they take over time-consuming, simple tasks and thus give skilled personnel more freedom for value-adding activities - an essential aspect, especially in times of a shortage of skilled workers. Demographic change alone will result in around 35% fewer employees being available by 2035. At the same time, the machines deliver consistently reproducible quality and are able to meet customer requirements in a cost-sensitive manner, even for small quantities.

Rapid assistance for time-critical requirements

In addition to being cheaper to purchase, used robots have another advantage: immediate availability. While a brand-new model often takes several weeks to deliver, used machines are usually available immediately. This can be a decisive argument for integrators, especially in time-critical processes. Buyers do not have to compromise on performance. At Kuka, for example, used robots are available in three categories: Superior, Premium and Certified. The latter are used robots that have been refurbished. Premium devices are completely overhauled robots that have been set up precisely for their new task. Superior devices are former exhibition devices that are brand new on paper.

"Robots have an average lifespan of 18 years. That's why we sometimes sell a 15-year-old model," says Roberto Rostri. This is also based on the idea of sustainability. Robots that have performed high-precision work for years in the automotive industry, for example, are no longer suitable for sensitive areas after a certain period of use. However, they are still fully operational in sectors with lower requirements. So instead of buying a new device that is literally overqualified for the task, it may be worth buying a used robot. The quality of these used devices is very high. This is also due to the fact that Kuka offers a worldwide guarantee for spare parts and service.
Sebastian Schuster, Global PR & Content Manager, Kuka Germany / am