It may not always be the best idea to go to a broker, since they may only understand your production and not necessarily oxidizers themselves. So is it a good idea to go straight to an OEM, even if you're looking for used air pollution equipment? 
 
Used systems vary from OEM to OEM. For instance, most OEMs are well versed in their systems, but unfamiliar with another OEMs designs. They may be experts in their own equipment, but they may struggle to get another manufacturer's thermal oxidizer running properly because they're not as familiar with the equipment they've sold you. Our expertise in the many different OEM designs gives us a distinct advantage. We can help, although sometimes there is not a quick fix, especially if the wrong type of system is installed. 
 
So, is it a good idea to only source used systems from the original manufacturer? Well, just because it is a used system provided by the original manufacturer does not make it the best solution. Even that OEM’s new system may not be the right fit for your application, so their used system, though cost competitive, is certainly not the answer. 
 
We have always maintained that a well built new system makes the best used system. You cannot build quality into a system after it leaves the manufacturer. For example, would you rather have a used Lexus or a new Yugo? Sure, the Yugo is brand new, but it doesn't compare to the quality of the Lexus. 
 
So what should you expect when you source a well built, properly refurbished thermal or catalytic oxidizer? What is a sure sign the unit is well built? We'll get more specific next week.