Product Type: CNC Machine
Manufacturer: Haas Automation, Inc.
Model: VF-6/40
Where to buy: Find a HAAS dealer
Performance Rating: 4/5
Quality Rating: 5/5
User Friendly Rating: 5/5
Price Rating: 5/5
Overall Rating: 4.75/5 stars
Introduction:
Haas Automation, Inc. is headquartered in Oxnard, CA and for anyone who has had experience in the CNC machining world, probably knows the brand name. Apart from priding itself with American made products, the company claims its “machines are engineered for simple maintenance, easy setup, and low-cost operation.” Since PEKO has several of the company’s machines scattered throughout our facilities, we are happy to back up their claim to fame. This review details our experience with HAAS’s VF-6/40, an affordable and reliable large bed CNC machining platform.
How Did PEKO Come About Using This Product?
Under short notice, we were in search of a CNC machine from a trusted brand that could be delivered in a quick lead time. Being able to increase capacity is an important feature for any shop with demanding customers. Our needs were program specific, but common among many reputable machine shops. In this case, we needed high precision for large aluminum parts up to 60″ for the Defense industry. For those who service the Defense industry, you know how stringent the requirements and tolerances can be. With decades of experience with HAAS machinery in shop, we were confident a HAAS VF-6 would fit the bill, even when compared against other industry counterparts.
What Are Some Benefits We Have Seen?
- Large bed size 62″ x 32″ x 30″
- Large memory eliminating DNC
- Programmable coolant nozzle to increase cutting efficiency
- Touch Probes with height offset and tool diameter offset to improve setup
- Great customer service and response
- Quick installation
- Spindle speeds up to 8.1k (upgradeable to 30k)
- Fast payback
What Are Some Shortfalls of This Equipment?
- No standard chip conveyor
Price vs Value
Thus far, the HAAS has produced excellent value in terms of output per dollars paid. With the HAAS, you’re getting a machine with excellent performance for the price of mid-range performance. This is real value.
How Well Does It Work and How is the Usability?
We are happy to report that the HAAS VF-6 lives up to our expectations and the claims of its marketing collateral. The HAAS VF-6 is very user friendly, especially compared to some of its peers. The operator can program right at the machine, eliminating need for external programming.
What Were Some Alternatives We Could Have Pursued?
With dozens of CNC machines on the market, we had many options. In this case, finding the right machine with the precision, size, price and quality were the determining factors.
Final Verdict:
Overall, the HAAS VF-6 is a high-quality machine that perfectly suits our needs. In the past, HAAS has been criticized for its robustness, but this criticism is not warranted, in our opinion. This purchase will pay itself back in a short amount of time, just as we had planned. PEKO absolutely recommends this machine if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution to machining large parts with high precision. Our experience across the industry with many different CNC machine brands, including HAAS fully backs this decision and you should consider HAAS for your next CNC machine purchase.
