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

These are two similar machines that share similar characteristics in some aspects and differ in others.

 

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 and Random change)
5.4 kg	Tool weight	8 kg
BT40 taper	Spindle	BT40 taper
8,100 rpm	Spindle speed	10,000 rpm
Through-tool cooling	Cooling	High-pressure cooling
Rapid feed 25.4 m/min	Feed system	Rapid feed 48 (X, Y) / 32 (Z) m/min
NOT INCLUDED	Chip conveyor system	Chain type

Although the comparison between two machines can be approached from different perspectives, we wanted to compare essential aspects of both machines based on a machining production.

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

This does not mean that Haas's control is better or worse than any other, it simply means that the range offered by Vurcon is more accessible for any operator, as by working with the leading brands in the sector (HEIDENHAIN, FAGOR, and SIEMENS) in their optional versions, it does not limit the knowledge to Haas's own control.

Regarding the worktable, the VF-2 has dimensions of 914mm in length x 356mm in width, being slightly longer than the Vurcon model's table, which is wider, with dimensions of 850mm x 400mm.

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

The spindle one of the key points in productive capabilities, and at this point, the VF-2 model from Haas comes in its standard configuration with an 8100 rpm spindle compared to the 10,000 rpm of the Vurcon VL-65. A productive difference to consider in your machining operations.

Another point we wanted to highlight in the table is chip extraction, as it is as important to have the tools to properly remove chips as it is to extract them and relieve the machine well, for optimal work and a longer machine lifespan.

And it catches our attention that while the Vurcon 65 model comes equipped with a chain-type chip extractor, the standard version of Haas in its VF-2 model comes without an extractor, a solution they offer as an optional feature.