Bain Machine

1400rpm turning a 16in diameter aluminum part on the old Okuma. The greatest feeling is throwing chips on machine that is paid off.

The challenge is to know when to invest in new equipment. For me I know its time when you keep getting the same calls about a particular size and type of part for many months. There is a something in the water moment. You can take on some of the work, but not all of it...but you want all of it moment. haha

The gut feeling has some data behind it. Thats when I start to really contemplate a new machine purchase. Im pretty conservative with machine purchases but eventually you cant ignore the calls and the data that appear to support the equipment purchases.

Adding capacity needs a full on marketing campaign as well. The cost doesn't end with just the purchase and install of the machine. I would say my sales and marketing costs increase 50% for a few months after the purchase. This is an aspect a lot of people miss with the cost of new machines.

Buying new equipment for the Shop requires a ton of self confidence that you can keep that machine full of work. New business development is really hard. In the end take note of the calls your getting, chat with your colleagues and other Shop owners constantly, double and triple check what your gut is saying. Then take a deep breath and cut the check and schedule delivery.