A fabrication-machine demonstration: decide what it can prove
- Reading time
- 3 minutes
- Last reviewed
On this page
A useful machinery demonstration answers a defined question. "Can we see it working?" is a starting point, but it does not say which function, material or result the buyer wants to observe.
Agree the question before the viewing. The person responsible for the site and a competent operator should decide whether the proposed demonstration can proceed under the existing arrangements. The sale organiser can then describe what will be shown, what evidence will be recorded and what remains untested.
Choose the observation
Different machines need different questions.
For a press brake, a buyer may want to see the control operate with an identified tool arrangement and observe a specified sample. That does not establish every bending capacity or tolerance.
For a fibre laser, the question may concern the installed configuration, control and a defined cutting example. The material, program and surrounding equipment help explain the observation.
For a MIG welding package, identify the power source, feeder and accessories used. Seeing that combination operate does not confirm that an unrelated feeder on another pallet is compatible.
Ask the buyer which observation would change their decision. A narrow, relevant demonstration can be more informative than a long video of movement without context.
Write a brief the operator can review
The brief is a record of the agreed scope. It is not an operating procedure.
| Brief field | Example of the information required |
|---|---|
| Machine | Exact asset number, model and serial reference |
| Question | The function or result the buyer wants to observe |
| Configuration | Identified tooling, accessories and connected equipment |
| Conditions | Material identity and relevant agreed demonstration conditions |
| Responsible people | Site authorisation and competent operator |
| Evidence | Dated photographs, video or written observation, with permission |
| Limitations | Functions, loads, materials or measurements outside the demonstration |
| Stop or defer decision | Who decides whether concerns prevent the demonstration proceeding |
The operator may reject or revise the proposed scope. Make that decision before inviting the buyer to rely on a particular demonstration.
For a power press with examination or safeguarding questions, specialist review may need to happen first. A viewing appointment is not a reason to work around an unresolved concern.
Record the result in ordinary language
Keep the final note close to what someone actually observed. For example: "The identified machine completed the agreed sample on the stated date using the listed tooling. No dimensional report was produced." This hypothetical wording is more precise than "fully tested".
If measurements were taken, identify who took them, what equipment they used and which part or feature they measured. Do not add an accuracy claim that the observation cannot support.
Where a fault appears, record it and follow the site's arrangements. Do not edit the footage to leave a misleading account. A buyer may still be interested in a machine with a known fault, but needs the condition described honestly.
HSE's work-equipment inspection guidance explains the purpose of inspection and the circumstances where inspection is required in Great Britain. A sales demonstration should not be presented as a substitute for that inspection. The two activities answer different questions.
What if the machine cannot be demonstrated?
State why, if known. The equipment may be disconnected, awaiting assessment or missing a required accessory. Distinguish that explanation from a claim about its working condition.
Offer the available evidence: recent dated operating records, relevant service information, clear photographs and specialist findings where commissioned. Attribute reports from former operators rather than presenting them as a current test.
Avoid vague labels such as "was working" without a date or source. A note saying when production ended and who recorded the last operation gives the buyer a basis for further questions.
For a sale assessment, give UK Auction Group the agreed demonstration scope, the resulting evidence and any limitations. That helps the description reflect the actual observation without making promises the seller cannot substantiate.
The fabrication and welding guide links to the machine-specific information needed before arranging a viewing.
Sources
This guide gives general information. Equipment-specific, legal, tax and safety decisions may need a qualified adviser or competent specialist. The guides do not promise sale prices, fees or results.