How to Inspect a Used Cold Rolling Mill Before Buying

Match the nameplate, stand type, roll face width, year, maker, motor power and original documents with the seller quotation. A wrong identity can change the real application range.

• Ask for nameplate and full-line photos
• Confirm 2-high, 4-high or reversing configuration
• Check whether uncoiler, coiler and auxiliary equipment are included

Look for cracks, abnormal repair marks, missing covers, foundation damage and wear around screw-down or hydraulic adjustment areas.

• Request close photos of both operator and drive sides
• Check chock seats, guides and stand windows
• Separate cosmetic repainting from real mechanical repair

AGC and hydraulic condition often decides whether the mill can be restarted economically. Oil leaks, missing valves, damaged sensors or incomplete drawings increase refurbishment risk.

• Ask for hydraulic station photos and oil leak details
• Confirm AGC cylinders, sensors and valve scope
• Check whether lubrication points and piping are complete

Roll and bearing condition affects surface quality, strip shape and restart cost. If rolls are removed, ask the seller to show where they are stored and what spare rolls are included.

• Review roll surface, diameter and visible damage
• Confirm bearing/chock completeness
• Ask whether spare work rolls or backup rolls are included

A motor can look complete while the drive cabinet or PLC is missing. Ask for electrical cabinet photos, drive model, PLC status and power-on evidence where possible.

• Check main motor, reducer and coupling condition
• Request cabinet interior photos before dismantling
• Confirm whether software, HMI and drawings are available

If the mill is still installed, request video of threading, rolling, speed change, coiling and hydraulic action. If it is already dismantled, mark the machine as higher restart risk.

• Ask for recent running video with date context
• Confirm strip material and thickness used in the video
• Record any alarms, vibration or abnormal noise

Heavy rolling mill sections need clear marking, packaging and lifting plans. Missing cable labels, unmarked hydraulic lines or poor packing can create avoidable restart delays.

• Confirm who marks cables and hydraulic lines
• Ask for loading list and largest part dimensions
• Decide whether installation or commissioning support is needed

Before comparing price, estimate the work needed after arrival: mechanical repair, hydraulic replacement, drive upgrade, control retrofit, guarding and commissioning.

• Separate purchase price from restart budget
• List parts that must be replaced before production
• Use refurbishment scope to compare used and new options fairly