VF-series travels at a glance
Travels are how far each axis moves, and they set the largest part the machine can reach. These are the nominal figures published for each base model. Older machines and options vary, so always check the listing for the machine in front of you.
| Model | X travel | Y travel | Z travel | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VF-2 | 30" | 16" | 20" | General-purpose job-shop work, smaller parts |
| VF-3 | 40" | 20" | 25" | Mid-size parts, longer fixtures |
| VF-4 | 50" | 20" | 25" | Long parts and multi-part fixtures |
| VF-5/40 | 40" | 26" | 25" | Wider parts and big fixtures at a 40 taper |
| VF-5/50 | 50" | 26" | 25" | Heavier cuts at a 50 taper |
| VF-5/50XT | 60" | 26" | 25" | Extended X travel for long parts |
| VF-6 | 64" | 32" | 30" | Large parts |
Dimensions are nominal published travels for each base model. The VF-4 and VF-5/50XT figures match the listings in our inventory, linked below.
What the suffixes mean
| Suffix | Usually means |
|---|---|
| SS | Super-Speed: a higher-speed spindle (typically 12,000 rpm instead of the standard 7,500 to 8,100 rpm). |
| XT | Extended X-axis travel, as on the VF-5/50XT (60" X travel against 50" on the VF-5/50). |
| YT | Extended Y-axis travel. |
| TR | Built with a tilting rotary table for 5-axis work. |
| /40, /50 | The spindle taper size: CAT40 or CAT50. The /50 machines are built for heavier cutting. |
Suffixes combine, so a "VF-2SSYT" is a Super-Speed machine with extended Y travel. When a listing is unclear, ask the seller for the serial number and the spindle taper and speed.
Which model fits which shop?
- VF-2: the most common starting point for a shop. Smaller footprint and lower power needs, which makes it the easiest to install.
- VF-3 and VF-4: when parts get longer. The VF-4's 50" X travel suits long parts and fixtures that carry several parts at once.
- VF-5 and VF-6: when parts get wider, taller or heavier. Check the machine's weight and footprint against your floor, door and power before you commit; see our rigging and shipping guide.
What to check on a used VF
Use the full inspection checklist. On a VF in particular, ask about:
- Spindle history: hours, any replacement, and whether it's quiet across the speed range.
- Tool changer: the style (umbrella or side-mount) and whether every pocket cycles cleanly.
- Options: through-spindle coolant, probing, rotary table, chip conveyor, and what the control supports.
- Control and software generation: older controls and newer ones differ in screens, memory and connectivity.
- Electrical: voltage and phase. Our VF-4 lists 208/230 V three-phase and our VF-5/50XT lists 440 V three-phase.
Haas machines in our inventory
We currently list a 2016 Haas VF-5/50XT (CAT50, 30-position tool changer, Haas HRT-160 rotary table, 1,000 PSI through-spindle coolant and a Renishaw probing system) and a 1997 Haas VF-4. See the full list of vertical machining centers, or tell us which VF you want and we'll look for one.
Questions
What is the difference between a VF-2 and a VF-3?
Size. The VF-3 has 40" of X travel, 20" of Y and 25" of Z, against 30", 16" and 20" on the VF-2. The VF-3 handles longer, larger parts and needs more floor space and a heavier move.
What does SS mean on a Haas?
Super-Speed. These machines have a higher-speed spindle, typically 12,000 rpm.
What does XT mean on a Haas VF?
Extended X-axis travel. The VF-5/50XT has 60 inches of X travel, compared with 50 inches on the VF-5/50.
Is a CAT40 or CAT50 spindle better?
Neither is better in general. CAT50 is a larger taper suited to heavier cutting and larger tools. CAT40 is more common and has a wider choice of holders. Pick the one that matches your work and the holders you already own.