Haas VF2 Machining Center

 

We present an alternative to the 3-axis machining center from Haas, the VF-2, the model VL65 from Vurcon.

These are two similar machines that share similar features in some respects, while in others there are some differences.

 

Haas VF-2	Features	Vurcon VL-65
Haas Next Generation Control	CNC control	Fanuc 0i-MF Plus
914x356mm	Worktable (LxW)	850x400mm
20+1 tools (carousel type)	Automatic tool changer	24 tools, (drum type with random tool change)
5.4 kg	Tool weight	8 kg
BT40 taper	Spindle	BT40 taper
8,100 rpm	Spindle speed	10,000 rpm
Through-tool coolant	Coolant	High-pressure coolant
Rapid traverse 25.4 m/min	Feed system	Rapid traverse 48 (X, Y) / 32 (Z) m/min
NOT INCLUDED	Chip conveyor system	Chain type

Although a comparison between two machines can be approached from different perspectives, we have chosen to compare essential aspects of both machines from a production machining standpoint.

Both the 3-axis machining center from Haas and the Vurcon offer different configuration options, but in this case we will compare the standard configurations of each machine as a starting point.

The CNC control, the model Haas VF-2 has (like all the brand's machines) its own CNC control, while the Vurcon comes as standard with one of the most popular controls on the market, the Fanuc 0i-MF Plus. 

This does not mean that the Haas control is better or worse than any other, simply that the range offered by Vurcon is more accessible to any operator, since by working with the main brands in the sector (HEIDENHAIN, FAGOR AND SIEMENS) in its optional versions, it does not require knowledge of Haas's own control.

As for the worktable, the VF-2 measures 914mm long x 356 mm wide, making its table slightly longer than that of the Vurcon model, which has a wider table measuring 850mm x400mm.

The tool changer in a machining center is also an important element in a machine's production capabilities, and here we see that the standard version of the Haas VF-2,comes equipped with a 20-tool carousel changer. The Vurcon VL-65 on the other hand, comes with a drum-type tool changer with 24 positions (random type) and with a maximum tool load weight of 8Kg, compared with 5.4kg on the Haas.

The spindle is one of the key points in production capability, and here the Haas VF-2 comes in its factory configuration with an 8100 r.p.m spindle compared with the 10,000 r.p.m of the Vurcon VL-65. A production difference to consider for the machining operations you need to carry out.

Another point we wanted to highlight in the table is chip removal: having the tools to cut chips properly is just as important as removing them afterwards and keeping the machine clear, for optimal work and a longer machine life.

What stands out is that while Vurcon's model 65 comes equipped with a chain-type chip conveyor, Haas's standard VF-2 comes without a conveyor, which they offer as an optional feature.