Should I Buy Used From A Broker?

Some companies would not even consider a used thermal oxidizer. One of the common sayings about purchasing anything used is, "You're inheriting someone else's problems." Other people may decide that since thermal oxidizers do nothing for your production except cost money to install and operate, used equipment is preferable since it's cheaper. Are either of those opinions correct? Are you truly inheriting someone else's problems, and does it really matter whether you buy used or new?

Used oxidizers can be sourced from many different parties. It may be available from a broker that is selling an oxidizer already integrated into the production line you are purchasing. Sometimes it is available from an end user that no longer needs the system, or sometimes one is available from an oxidizer manufacturer selling their original equipment or another manufacturer’s system. Any of these sources may be able to provide a system that works for your needs.

The unfortunate reality is that many times the seller does not understand the capability of the oxidizer or the needs of the new application. This can be a recipe for frustration and finger-pointing after installation. If the system is installed and does not perform as hoped, a broker will typically be at a loss for ideas, since they are likely only familiar with the production equipment, not the oxidizer.

So is it a good idea to go straight to the OEM if you're looking for a used system? We'll discuss that tomorrow.

Our Customers Say it Best

"We had two catalytic systems in operation when we purchased our first refurbished unit from Kono Kogs. We knew a catalytic system was the way to go, but the availability of a warranty on a used system, and Kono Kogs reputation, helped us make the final decision to buy a used system. The 1985 vintage unit looked great when we received it and it tested out great when we had our stack test (>98% VOC destruction). So when it was time to increase capacity for our other press lines, we did not hesitate to go back to Kono Kogs. They even made our second purchase easier by taking two older systems in trade on a refurbished unit."

"We are very pleased with the performance of the refurbished oxidizer. We greatly exceeded (98%+) our required VOC destruction efficiency and it has performed with >99% up time. The unit looks great as well, which was very important to us!"

"Altering production to avoid high odor days was fine until we were up against a delivery deadline; then the policy was thrown out the window as we strived to satisfy our customers. This was no way to run a business or be a good neighbor- short term or long term. An inexpensive solution from Kono Kogs provided us the flexibility every printer needs."

"After an early actuator failure, this RTO has been running very well. We are pleased with the equipment, cost savings, and with the support provided by Kono Kogs and their OEM partner on this project."

"Kono Kogs really got us out of a bind. We received our rental unit quickly to address our short term emergency. And now we have a more energy efficient system that will actually pay for itself in fuel savings. Kono Kogs provided us support like we would expect from new equipment vendors, but at a lower cost. This system has been installed for over two (2) years and it is still running great."

"We have been running our catalytic system for approximately 9 months and we just recently performed our stack test. Kono Kog's refurbished oxidizer provided 99.9% VOC destruction efficiency, greatly exceed their warranty of 97% and our NJ regulations of 95%. We would highly recommend Kono Kogs."

Kono Kogs, Inc.

Should I Buy Used From A Broker?

Our Customers Say it Best