In a context where laboratory budgets are constrained and environmental issues are increasingly present, the purchase of used or refurbished laboratory equipment is attracting growing interest. But this solution also raises legitimate questions regarding reliability, compliance, and longevity. This article objectively explores the following question: Refurbished laboratory equipment: reliable or risky?
Economic benefits of refurbished laboratory equipment
The cost of new equipment can represent a significant portion of a laboratory's budget, whether academic, hospital, or private. Opting for refurbished equipment can save 30 to 70% on the initial purchase price. This frees up resources for other strategic investments: consumables, personnel, and research.
This cost reduction does not necessarily imply a decrease in quality. When reconditioned by a reliable supplier, the equipment undergoes a rigorous process of verification, testing, repair, and technical compliance.
Regulatory compliance and safety of use
Refurbished laboratory equipment must meet the same safety standards as new equipment. This includes:
- CE conformity, where applicable.
- Traceability of replacement parts.
- Mandatory electrical and thermal checks for certain devices.
A professional second-hand hardware supplier, like Rewake , provides a full test report, warranty, and often a software update or factory calibration, ensuring uncompromising safety.
Technical criteria to check before purchasing
The reliability of refurbished equipment depends largely on the expertise of the refurbisher. Here are some things to consider:
- Age of the device : Equipment that is too old can pose problems in terms of spare parts or software compatibility.
- Type of previous use : intensive use or in a corrosive environment = risk of premature wear.
- Traceability of interventions : transparency on repairs or replacements of components.
- Condition of consumables : tanks, seals, probes, filters must be in good condition or replaced.
The supplier must also commit to technical performance, particularly for centrifuges, incubators, precision balances or thermocyclers, where any deviation compromises the analytical results.
Environmental impact and CSR approach
Beyond the economic aspects, choosing refurbished laboratory equipment helps reduce your carbon footprint. The scientific equipment industry generates electronic waste that is complex to process. Refurbishing means:
- Reduce the consumption of virgin resources (metals, technical plastics).
- Reduce CO₂ production linked to the manufacturing and transport of new equipment.
- Extend the lifespan of products without functional loss.
Laboratories integrating a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) approach promote this aspect in their responsible purchasing policy, particularly during certification audits (ISO, HSE).
Limitations of refurbished equipment: cases where new equipment is still necessary
Certain use cases require the purchase of new equipment:
- Medical diagnostic equipment subject to strict regulations (CE-IVD, FDA).
- Research protocols requiring extreme precision (nanovolumes, advanced spectroscopy).
- No spare parts or software support for older models.
In these situations, a compromise can be considered: purchase new critical equipment, and supplement with reconditioned equipment for auxiliary functions (agitators, water baths, hoods, etc.).
Long-term reliability: maintenance and warranty
The reliability of refurbished equipment also depends on post-purchase maintenance. Professional suppliers generally include:
- A 3 to 12 month warranty depending on the model.
- Responsive after-sales service (SAV) with hotline and specialized technicians.
- Preventive maintenance contract options.
Wear parts (UV lamps, motors, seals) must be easily accessible. It is also recommended to choose recognized brands (Thermo Fisher, Eppendorf, Sartorius, Memmert, etc.) for which parts are still available.
Comparison: new vs. refurbished
| Criteria | Nine | Refurbished |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Pupil | 30 to 70% cheaper |
| delivery time | 4 to 8 weeks | Available immediately |
| Guarantee | 12 to 24 months | 3 to 12 months |
| Personalization | Tailored to order | Standard but sufficient |
| Environmental impact | Important | Weak |
Rewake's role in the reliability of refurbished equipment
Rewake specializes in the recycling of laboratory equipment. Each device offered is:
- From certified laboratories (public or private).
- Checked by technicians trained to manufacturer standards.
- Accompanied by a test certificate, traceability and a written guarantee.
Rewake covers a wide range of equipment: centrifuges, incubators, thermocyclers, scales, spectrophotometers, etc. Each product sheet details the test cycles carried out and any repairs made.
Conclusion: a reasoned strategic choice
Using refurbished laboratory equipment is a reliable solution when managed by professionals. The economic, ecological, and technical aspects speak in its favor, provided you select the right suppliers, verify warranties, and remain attentive to the laboratory's specific needs.
In an environment where cost rationalization is essential, this approach makes it possible to maintain a high level of performance without compromising on security or the accuracy of analyses.
