Buy a Cheap Secondhand Deck Screen: Essential Guide for Smart Buyers
Are you searching for a cheap secondhand deck screen for sale? Before you make a purchase, read this essential guide to ensure you get the right machine for your needs and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re in recycling, construction, or aggregates, buying the wrong deck screen can waste money and cause operational headaches.
1. Choose the Right Deck Screen Size
Being cheap is great, but size matters! If your deck screen is too small or too large for your application, you’ll lose efficiency and value. Use the table below to match your needs:
| Screen Box Size (m²) | Example Dimensions (m | Estimated Throughput (t/hr) – Light Material | Estimated Throughput (t/hr) – Heavy Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 | 2.0 x 1.0 | 20-35 | 35-50 |
| 3.0 | 2.5 x 1.2 | 30-50 | 50-70 |
| 4.0 | 3.0 x 1.3 | 40-65 | 60-90 |
| 5.0 | 3.5 x 1.4 | 50-80 | 80-110 |
Tip: Estimate your material flow and match it to the right screen size for best results.
2. Check the Aperture Size and Screening Media
What aperture size do you need for your material? Make sure the secondhand deck screen has the correct screen media fitted. Replacing screening media can be expensive, especially on larger machines.
3. Inspect for Repairs and Fatigue
Look for evidence of old repairs on the screenbox. Repairs aren’t always a dealbreaker, but deck screens operate under heavy stress, and poor repairs can lead to cracks and fatigue. Only buy if repairs look professional and robust.
4. Assess Isolation Hardware and Springs
Check the isolation hardware—especially the springs. Missing or broken springs are common issues. Replacements can have long lead times and minimum order quantities, depending on the manufacturer. Make sure all components are present and in good working order.
5. Consider the Mounting Structure
Does the deck screen come with its mounting frame? If not, you’ll need to fabricate one. Building a strong, reliable frame is more demanding and costly than many buyers expect. The structure must handle significant stresses and should be built robustly.
Need More Advice?
If you need further advice or help with your deck screen—whether it’s choosing the right size, inspecting used equipment, or building a frame—contact Spitfire Engineering. Our experts have hands-on experience and can help you avoid common pitfalls when buying a cheap secondhand deck screen.
