Chevalier FVB-1640M3
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Overview
The Chevalier FVB-1640M3 is a mid-size vertical machining center from Chevalier Machinery, a Taiwanese builder with over 50 years of machine tool manufacturing history. The FVB series represents Chevalier's core VMC lineup for the global job shop market, and the 1640M3 model provides 40x16-inch (1,016 x 406 mm) X/Y travel with a 20-inch (508 mm) Z-axis stroke in a compact, rigid box-way construction. The M3 designation indicates the third-generation model with updated servo drives, spindle, and control.
The spindle is a 15 kW (20 hp) gear-driven unit with a maximum speed of 8,000 RPM and a BT40 taper. The gear drive provides strong low-end torque — 143 Nm (105 ft-lb) at 500 RPM — making the FVB-1640M3 well-suited for heavy roughing in steel, cast iron, and stainless at lower RPM values. The 24-station umbrella-style ATC delivers 6-second chip-to-chip times, adequate for the job shop production environments this machine targets.
The control is a Fanuc 0i-MF or Mitsubishi M80 depending on configuration. Both options provide full ISO G-code capability with canned cycles, macro programming (FANUC Custom Macro B or equivalent), and rigid tapping. The FANUC 0i-MF version is the more common choice for North American installations given the wide familiarity of FANUC among US machinists and the availability of FANUC-trained service technicians.
Chevalier positions the FVB-1640M3 as a value-oriented alternative to Haas VF-2 and VMC alternatives from Brother and Kitamura. The box-way construction provides better damping than linear-guide competitors at the same price point. Pricing typically runs $45,000–$65,000 new, representing meaningful savings over comparable Haas, Mazak, or Hurco machines with similar envelopes. Chevalier's North American distribution is handled through regional dealers with service support in the major US manufacturing regions.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,016 mm (40 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 406 mm (16 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 508 mm (20 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | BT40 |
| Spindle Motor Power | 15 kW (20 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 143 Nm (105 ft-lb) @ 500 RPM |
| Tool Capacity | 24-station umbrella ATC |
| Tool To Tool | 5.0 sec |
| Chip To Chip | 6.0 sec |
| Max Tool Diameter | 75 mm (2.95 in) |
| Max Tool Length | 300 mm (11.8 in) |
| Max Tool Weight | 7 kg (15.4 lb) |
| Table Size | 1,050 x 420 mm (41.3 x 16.5 in) |
| T Slots | 5 slots, 80 mm (3.15 in) center distance |
| Max Table Load | 900 kg (1,984 lb) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 18 m/min (709 ipm) X/Y; 15 m/min (591 ipm) Z |
| Positioning Accuracy | ±0.006 mm (±0.00024 in) |
| Repeatability | ±0.004 mm (±0.00016 in) |
| Machine Weight | 5,500 kg (12,125 lb) |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 0i-MF or Mitsubishi M80 (customer selection) |
| Coolant Capacity | 180 L (48 gal) |
| Electrical | 220/440 VAC 3-phase, 50 A |
Specifications sourced from chevalierusa.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Box-way construction on all axes delivers superior vibration damping and heavy-cut stability compared to linear-guide VMCs at the same price point
- Gear-driven spindle provides strong low-end torque (143 Nm at 500 RPM) for aggressive roughing in steel and cast iron without spindle overload
- Price of $45K–$65K new offers significant savings over comparable Haas VF-2 or Hurco VMX30i configurations without a major capability trade-off
- FANUC 0i-MF control is the most widely known CNC interface in the US, minimizing operator retraining and ensuring broad G-code compatibility
Limitations
- 18 m/min rapids are significantly slower than linear-guide competitors (Haas VF-2 at 25 m/min, Mazak at 36 m/min), reducing productivity in light-cut, high-cycle applications
- 8,000 RPM spindle maximum limits high-speed finishing capability for aluminum and other light alloys where 12,000–15,000 RPM is preferred
- Chevalier's North American service network is narrower than Haas, Mazak, or DMG Mori, which may affect parts availability and response time in some regions
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The Haas VF-2 offers a slightly larger Y-axis (20 vs 16 in), faster rapids (25 m/min vs 18 m/min), and stronger US dealer/service support, but uses linear guideways and lists for $57K–$65K base. The Chevalier FVB-1640M3 uses box-way construction for better heavy-cut rigidity, a gear-drive spindle for more low-end torque, and typically prices $10K–$20K lower. For shops that prioritize heavy roughing in steel over rapid speed and Y-axis reach, the Chevalier is worth evaluating.
02
M3 indicates the third-generation FVB-1640 model. The M3 update brought revised servo amplifiers, an updated spindle bearing design for improved thermal stability, and compatibility with the newer Fanuc 0i-MF and Mitsubishi M80 controls replacing the earlier 0i-MD and M70 options. The structural casting is essentially unchanged from M2, but the electrical and control updates improve reliability and programming capability.
03
Yes. The FANUC 0i-MF control supports a 4th rotary axis as a standard optional axis. Chevalier offers a factory-wired 4th-axis drive, and the table size accommodates common 5-inch and 8-inch rotary tables alongside vise workholding. When ordering with 4th-axis intent, specify the 4th-axis drive and cables at time of order for factory installation.
04
Chevalier maintains authorized dealers in major manufacturing regions including the Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and West Coast. Parts for common wear items (spindle bearings, way wipers, servo drives) are stocked by dealers and at Chevalier's US parts warehouse in City of Industry, California. Response times for service calls are generally 1–3 business days depending on location. For the control (FANUC 0i-MF), any FANUC-authorized service provider can support control-level issues.
05
Yes. The machine is configured for 220/440 VAC 3-phase input and can run on standard US 240 VAC 3-phase (delta or wye) with the appropriate transformer tap setting. Draw at full load is approximately 50 A on a 220 V service. Most US industrial facilities with 3-phase service can accommodate the machine without special electrical upgrades. Confirm phase voltage and panel capacity with an electrician before delivery.
Community Discussions
Owner experience and review — practicalmachinist.com/forum/threads/3-phase-100-amps-per-phase...
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Community discussion — Chevalier replacement parts - Practical Machinist
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — Need Help with Vevor Lathe Decision : r/Machinists - Reddit
Owner experience and review — Mini lathe tooling help : r/Machinists - Reddit
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Community discussion — Buyers beware, stay away from this brand. : r/Machinists - Reddit
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.
