Vision Wide VTEC VF-4000 CNC Double Column Machining Center – Year 2009
Machine Overview
| Machine Model | Vision Wide VTEC VF-4000 CNC Double Column Machining Center |
| Condition | Used |
| Year of Manufacture | 2009 |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 18-iMB |
Working Capacity
| Table Size | 165.35″ x 80.70″ |
| Maximum Table Load | 28,600 lbs |
| X-Axis Travel | 165.35″ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 90.55″ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 36.22″ |
| Distance Between Columns | 94.48″ |
| Spindle Nose to Table | 48″ |
Spindle & Feed Specifications
| Spindle Taper | CAT 50 |
| Spindle Motor Power | 35 HP |
| Spindle Speed Range | 50 – 6,000 RPM |
| Rapid Traverse (X / Y) | 393 IPM |
| Rapid Traverse (Z) | 472 IPM |
| Cutting Feed Rate | 275 IPM |
Tool Changer
| Tool Changer Type | Side Mounted Automatic Tool Changer |
| Tool Capacity | 40 Stations |
Standard Equipment & Features
- 40-Station Side Mounted Tool Changer
- Coolant Through Spindle (500 PSI)
- Chip Conveyor
- Chip Augers Feeding to Conveyor
- Spindle Chiller
- Complete Coolant System with Tank and Pump
- Rigid Tapping
- Flood Coolant System
- Boxed Way Design
- RS-232 Port Interface
- All Available Manuals
Machine is currently installed in plant and under power.
Technical Evaluation of the Vision Wide VTEC VF-4000
CNC Double Column Machining Center (Year 2009)
1. Technical Evaluation Overview
The Vision Wide VTEC VF-4000 is a large-format CNC double column machining center manufactured in 2009. The machine is configured for heavy-duty machining, with a table size of 165.35″ × 80.70″ and a maximum table load of 28,600 lbs, indicating suitability for very large and heavy workpieces.
Axis travels of X 165.35″, Y 90.55″, and Z 36.22″, combined with a 94.48″ distance between columns, define a wide working envelope appropriate for large structural components. The spindle nose-to-table distance of 48″ supports tall part setups within the stated Z-axis capacity.
The machine is equipped with a CAT 50 spindle, powered by a 35 HP motor, with a speed range of 50–6,000 rpm, reflecting a configuration optimized for torque and stability rather than high-speed machining. Feed specifications include rapid traverses of 393 IPM (X/Y) and 472 IPM (Z), with a cutting feed rate of 275 IPM.
Tool handling is provided by a 40-station side-mounted automatic tool changer. Control is via a Fanuc 18-iMB CNC, and the machine is reported to be installed and under power at the time of listing.
2. What to Check Before Buying
Mechanically, inspection should focus on the boxed way design, particularly wear patterns on the Y-axis and cross-rail-related components, as these areas are subject to high loads in double column machines. Column parallelism and table flatness should be verified, as inaccuracies here directly affect machining precision.
The CAT 50 spindle should be evaluated under load for vibration, noise, and thermal behavior across the full speed range, including low-speed torque performance. Confirmation of coolant-through-spindle (500 PSI) functionality is important, as pressure loss or internal leakage can indicate wear or blockage.
From a control and electrical standpoint, the Fanuc 18-iMB should be powered and checked for alarm history, parameter integrity, and battery condition. Functionality of the RS-232 interface, rigid tapping, and auxiliary systems such as the spindle chiller and coolant pumps should be verified. Availability and completeness of the listed manuals should be confirmed against the installed configuration.
3. Typical Industrial Applications
Based on the provided specifications, this machine is appropriate for large structural components, heavy base plates, frames, dies, molds, and energy or infrastructure-related parts that require high rigidity and substantial table load capacity. The double column architecture and CAT 50 spindle are well suited to steel and cast iron machining within the stated travel and load limits.
4. Common Risks in Used Machines
Typical risks for used double column machining centers include uneven way wear, loss of geometric accuracy due to column or cross-rail misalignment, and spindle wear from prolonged heavy cutting. Control-related risks may involve aging electronics, battery-related encoder issues, or undocumented parameter changes. Chip management systems, including augers and conveyors, may show wear or clogging if maintenance has been inconsistent.
5. Maintenance and Service Considerations
Maintenance needs depend strongly on prior usage and service quality. Regular attention should be given to way lubrication, spindle cooling, and coolant filtration, as failures in these systems can accelerate mechanical wear. The Fanuc 18-iMB control is a mature platform, but confirmation of backup data, option activation, and long-term supportability is advisable. Given the machine’s size and mass, any major service or alignment work requires careful planning and appropriate handling equipment.
Final Note:
While the specifications provided outline a capable heavy-duty machining platform, critical information such as axis accuracy, spindle condition, and detailed service history is not included. These factors should be verified through inspection, testing, and documentation review before forming final technical conclusions.
