Why Brand Matters: Best Brands for Used Injection Molding Machines

When buying a used injection molding machine, one of the most important factors to consider is the brand. The brand not only indicates the machine’s original quality but also impacts availability of spare parts, ease of maintenance, service support, and resale value. Choosing a trusted brand can significantly reduce risks and ensure a longer, more productive life for your equipment.

In this article, we’ll explain why the brand matters and highlight some of the best-known names in the injection molding industry.

Why Does Brand Matter in Used Machinery?

Not all injection molding machines are created equal. Brands differ in design quality, durability, technological innovation, and support networks. When purchasing used equipment, reliability becomes even more important, because older machines may have wear and require parts or servicing. Established brands often provide better long-term value, even if the initial investment is slightly higher.

Choosing a reputable brand ensures:

• Easier access to spare parts

• Availability of technical documentation

• Better machine performance over time

• Higher resale value if you upgrade later

• Access to trained service technicians and OEM support

Top Brands for Used Injection Molding Machines

Arburg

Arburg is one of the most respected names in the plastics industry. German-made Arburg machines, such as the Allrounder series, are known for precision, reliability, and strong after-sales support. Their modular design also makes it easier to customize machines for different applications.

Arburg’s commitment to innovation includes energy-efficient systems and Industry 4.0 integration, making even older models highly adaptable to today’s production requirements. Their worldwide service network ensures that customers can receive support and spare parts quickly.

Engel

Another leading brand from Austria, Engel is famous for its innovative technology and energy-efficient designs. Engel’s fully electric e-motion and hybrid duo series are excellent choices for those looking for high-speed and high-precision molding.

Engel machines are built with a focus on reducing cycle times and increasing repeatability. The company also invests heavily in research and development, ensuring that even older machines offer technological features that stay competitive in modern production environments.

KraussMaffei

KraussMaffei machines are known for their rugged construction and advanced process technologies. Their hydraulic and hybrid systems are popular in automotive, packaging, and medical industries. Used KraussMaffei equipment often remains highly productive even after many years.

Many KraussMaffei machines are designed with modular systems, allowing manufacturers to upgrade specific components instead of replacing entire machines. This flexibility enhances the long-term value and performance of used models.

Demag

Now operating as Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, Demag injection molding machines are known for their strong clamping units and high-speed performance. The older Ergotech models are widely used and respected for their reliability and serviceability.

Now operating as Sumitomo (SHI) Demag, Demag injection molding machines are known for their strong clamping units and high-speed performance. The older Ergotech models are widely used and respected for their reliability and serviceability.

Demag machines are particularly appreciated for their robust mechanical design combined with efficient hydraulic systems, making them an excellent choice for both thin-wall and precision molding applications.

Zhafir / Haitian

Zhafir and Haitian are major players from Asia, offering excellent value for the price. Their electric and hybrid injection molding machines have gained popularity for being cost-effective without sacrificing much in terms of quality, especially for high-volume production environments.

Haitian focuses on building machines that are easy to maintain and operate, offering strong customer support and fast parts delivery worldwide. Zhafir’s all-electric Venus series, for example, is highly regarded for energy efficiency and precision.

Negri Bossi

An Italian brand with a long tradition, Negri Bossi is known for innovation in two-component and multi-material molding. Their machines often offer flexible configurations and competitive pricing, making them a strong choice for custom applications.

Negri Bossi machines are built with a focus on user-friendliness and operational efficiency. Their CANBIO and VECTOR series provide reliability and adaptability, ideal for manufacturers producing complex parts in demanding sectors.

Battenfeld

Before its merger into Wittmann Battenfeld, Battenfeld was a leading European producer of molding machines. Older Battenfeld models are praised for their robust design and ease of maintenance. Wittmann Battenfeld continues to build on this legacy with modern, energy-efficient machines.

Classic Battenfeld machines, such as the TM and HM series, are still widely used in many production plants, known for their simplicity, reliability, and low operational costs.

Sumitomo (SHI) Demag

A combination of Japanese precision and German engineering, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag offers some of the best fully electric and hybrid injection molding machines in the world. The IntElect and Systec series are well-regarded for their speed, accuracy, and low energy consumption.

Sumitomo’s emphasis on electric machine technology provides manufacturers with solutions that minimize downtime and maximize precision, particularly in industries like medical device production and electronics.

Wittmann

Primarily known for automation and robotics, Wittmann (through Wittmann Battenfeld) also produces high-quality injection molding machines. Their SmartPower and EcoPower series combine compact design with smart technology features.

Wittmann’s strong integration between machines, robots, and peripherals offers manufacturers complete production cells from a single source, improving production efficiency and reducing compatibility issues.

Ferroformatic

Based in Europe, Ferromatic was a strong brand that merged into Milacron. Many older Ferromatic machines are still highly functional and appreciated for their durability and consistent performance, especially in packaging and general industry.

Ferromatic models are often sought after in the secondary market for their robust hydraulic systems and versatility across a range of applications.

BOY

German manufacturer BOY specializes in smaller tonnage injection molding machines. Their compact machines are highly reliable, making them a preferred choice for small part production and insert molding operations.

BOY machines are designed to operate efficiently in smaller spaces and with lower energy consumption, offering high precision and excellent repeatability for micro-molding and prototyping applications.

Other Notable Brands

Besides the brands mentioned above, other well-regarded names include Toshiba, Nissei, JSW (Japan Steel Works), Milacron, Engel Victory, and Van Dorn. Machines from these manufacturers also hold their value well and offer excellent performance when properly maintained.

Conclusion

When buying a used injection molding machine, brand reputation should be one of your top considerations. Well-established brands not only offer better build quality but also make it easier to find spare parts, technical documentation, and service assistance. Investing in a trusted brand increases your chances of smooth operation, lower maintenance costs, and better long-term productivity.

At BASTA Machines, we specialize in sourcing high-quality used machines from top brands like Arburg, Engel, KraussMaffei, Demag, Haitian, and many more. Explore our latest listings or contact us to find the perfect machine for your needs.