Investing in a rolling mill is a significant financial decision. To reduce costs, companies may opt for used machinery or retrofit older equipment to comply with EU directives. This approach also supports sustainability goals. But how important is CE certification in this context?
At DEGUMA, there’s something for every budget. As a specialist in rubber and plastics processing, the company offers not only new machines but also refurbished used equipment from various European manufacturers.
Despite the availability of a Declaration of Conformity, many companies hesitate to purchase used machines bearing the CE mark. However, these machines offer considerable advantages: they are typically available more quickly than new equipment and require less capital investment.
Extending the service life of machinery also contributes to sustainability—provided the equipment is up to date in terms of regulatory compliance, energy efficiency, control systems, and safety standards.
DEGUMA offers a wide range of new and used machines (with CE labeling) for rubber and plastics processing from various European manufacturers. The product portfolio includes rolling mills, extruders, presses, laboratory machines, and extrusion lines.
As part of the DEGUMA efficiency concept, this family-owned company retrofits used machines with state-of-the-art drive, control, and safety technology in compliance with European regulations. This results in longer machine lifespans, reduced energy consumption, full conformity with EU standards, and safe operation.
Regulations and Directives: The Importance of CE Labeling
The checklists provided by Prevention & Insurance Association for rolling mills in the rubber and plastics industry help technical inspectors assess whether a used machine meets current technical standards—and guide necessary upgrades where applicable. Upon purchase, customers receive written confirmation that the machine has been retrofitted according to the Association‘s safety concept.
A new CE labeling is only required in specific cases, such as when substantial modifications have been made to the machine. In general, the CE labelserves as a declaration of conformity with applicable EU directives.
The CE labeling confirms that the machine complied with relevant European regulations at the time it was first placed on the market.
Since January 1, 1995, CE labeling has been mandatory for machines first introduced into the European Economic Area (EEA) after that date. This means that even a machine originally manufactured in 1950 but first placed on the EU market after 1995 must carry a CE mark. Conversely, a machine first placed on the EEA market in 1950 retains its status and does not require a new CE labelwhen traded within the EU.
The safety standards in effect at the time of the machine’s initial market placement remain the minimum requirement.
If a risk assessment (RA) identifies the need for retrofitting, the employer/operator is obligated to implement the necessary safety measures in accordance with the current state of the art and to ensure that the equipment can be used safely under applicable standards.
In such cases, it is advisable to consult a machinery expert like DEGUMA. If significant modifications are required, a new CE labeling will be issued.
Therefore, not every used machine purchased from DEGUMA will necessarily bear a CE mark. However, buyers can be confident that the equipment complies with European safety regulations at the time of purchase.
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