Haas Automation 5-Axis Machining Centers

Haas VF-3TR

$130,000 - $175,000 Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

8,100 RPM

Spindle Taper

CAT 40

Tool Capacity

20+1 side-mount

Rapid Traverse

25.4 m/min (1,000 in/min)

Spindle Power

22.4 kW (30 hp)

x axis travel

1,016 mm (40 in)

Overview

The Haas VF-3TR is a 5-axis machining center built on the VF-3 platform with an integrated dual-axis trunnion table. It's Haas's answer to shops that need simultaneous 5-axis capability without the $300K+ price tag of dedicated 5-axis machines from DMG Mori, Hermle, or Matsuura.

The VF-3 base provides 1,016 mm (40 in) of X-travel, 508 mm (20 in) of Y-travel, and 635 mm (25 in) of Z-travel. The trunnion adds a tilting A-axis (+120/-35 degrees) and a full 360-degree C-axis rotating table. The trunnion table diameter is 311 mm (12.25 in) with a 91 kg (200 lb) load capacity on the platter.

The spindle delivers 22.4 kW (30 hp) at up to 8,100 RPM standard with an optional 12,000 RPM upgrade. The 20+1 side-mount tool changer runs CAT 40 tooling. The machine weighs approximately 4,536 kg (10,000 lb).

Full simultaneous 5-axis machining is supported through the NGC control. Haas's implementation handles RTCP (Rotary Tool Center Point) compensation, and the control accepts standard 5-axis G-code from CAM systems like Mastercam, Fusion 360, and NX.

At $130,000-$175,000 configured, the VF-3TR is far and away the cheapest path into full 5-axis simultaneous machining. It won't match the accuracy or dynamics of a $400K Hermle C 250 or DMG MORI DMU 50, but for job shops entering the 5-axis market, it dramatically lowers the barrier to entry.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X Axis Travel	1,016 mm (40 in)
Y Axis Travel	508 mm (20 in)
Z Axis Travel	635 mm (25 in)
A Axis Travel	+120° / -35°
C Axis Travel	360° continuous
Trunnion Table Diameter	311 mm (12.25 in)
Trunnion Load Capacity	91 kg (200 lb)
Max Spindle Speed	8,100 RPM
Spindle Motor Power	22.4 kW (30 hp)
Spindle Taper	CAT 40
Tool Capacity	20+1 side-mount
Rapid Traverse Rate	25.4 m/min (1,000 in/min)
Machine Weight	4,536 kg (10,000 lb)
Coolant Capacity	246 L (65 gal)
CNC Control	Haas Next Generation Control (NGC)

Specifications sourced from haascnc.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Cheapest path to simultaneous 5-axis machining — $130-175K vs $300K+ for DMG MORI or Hermle
Full VF-3 travel envelope (40 x 20 x 25 in) still available for standard 3-axis work when the trunnion isn't needed
NGC control with RTCP compensation handles 5-axis CAM output from Mastercam, Fusion 360, and NX
Integrated trunnion eliminates the cost and setup complexity of adding a third-party rotary to a VMC
Same service network and parts availability as every other Haas machine
22.4 kW (30 hp) spindle is competitive for the price class

Limitations

311 mm (12.25 in) trunnion table and 91 kg load limit restrict workpiece size and weight significantly
Trunnion accuracy and repeatability don't match purpose-built 5-axis platforms from Hermle or DMG MORI
8,100 RPM standard spindle is slow for high-speed 5-axis aluminum aerospace work
20-pocket tool changer is limiting for complex 5-axis parts that need many tools
Trunnion occupies Y-axis and Z-axis envelope, reducing effective working volume for 5-axis operations
RTCP accuracy on the Haas trunnion draws mixed reviews — calibrate carefully and verify on test cuts

Best For

Job shops entering 5-axis machining without a $300K+ machine investment Small-to-medium 5-axis parts under 91 kg and 311 mm diameter — impellers, medical devices, small aerospace components Shops that need both 3-axis VMC capability and 5-axis work on one machine Training and education programs teaching 5-axis programming and operation Prototype shops machining complex geometries in low volumes where cycle time is less critical than access angles

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a Haas VF-3TR cost?

Base price is around $130,000. With through-spindle coolant, probing, high-speed machining option, and chip management, expect $155,000-$175,000 configured. Used VF-3TR machines from 2019-2023 trade in the $65,000-$110,000 range.

02 How does the VF-3TR compare to the Haas UMC-500?

The UMC-500 is a purpose-built 5-axis machine with a larger trunnion table (500 mm), higher load capacity (181 kg), and a 40+1 tool changer. It's more capable for dedicated 5-axis production. The VF-3TR offers full VF-3 3-axis capability with 5-axis added, making it more versatile for mixed work. The UMC-500 costs $20-30K more.

03 Can the VF-3TR do simultaneous 5-axis machining?

Yes. The NGC control supports full simultaneous 5-axis machining with RTCP compensation. All major CAM systems output 5-axis toolpaths compatible with the Haas control. The machine handles simultaneous contouring for impellers, turbine blades, and complex 3D surfaces.

04 What are the limitations of the trunnion table?

The 311 mm (12.25 in) table diameter and 91 kg (200 lb) load capacity are the primary constraints. Parts must fit within the trunnion swing envelope without collision, and the A-axis range of +120/-35 degrees limits undercut access compared to machines with +/-120 degree tilt. Plan fixturing carefully to maximize the available angles.

05 Is the VF-3TR accurate enough for aerospace work?

For prototype and low-volume aerospace parts with typical 5-axis tolerances (+/-0.05 mm), the VF-3TR is capable with careful calibration. For tight-tolerance production aerospace work requiring +/-0.01 mm across 5 axes, purpose-built machines like the Hermle C 250 or DMG MORI DMU 50 are more appropriate.