Hurco VM30i

The Hurco VM30i is the long-bed member of the VM family: 1,270 mm (50 in) of X travel over a 1,321 × 508 mm (52 × 20 in) table, with 508 mm (20 in) each of Y and Z. Everything except length is shared with the VM20i, so the question a buyer has to answer is simply whether the work needs the extra X.

The VM20i stops at 1,016 mm (40 in) of X on a 1,168 mm (45.98 in) table. The additional stroke on the VM30i is what lets a shop run long extrusions, rails and manifolds in one clamping, or line up three or four vises and machine a batch per cycle. For parts that fit comfortably inside the VM20i envelope, the VM30i adds floor space and weight, not capability.

Table rating does not grow with the length. Both machines carry 1,800 kg (3,970 lb), and spread across a 1,321 mm (52 in) table that is ample for aluminium and moderate steel work, but long steel weldments and heavy fixtures should be weighed before they are quoted.

The spindle is the VM20i's as well: CAT 40, 12,000 rpm, 15 kW (20 hp) and 98.8 Nm (72.9 ft-lb). It handles general milling across the bed; very heavy roughing is better matched to a machine with more torque. The 24-tool changer takes tools up to 80 mm (3.15 in) in diameter, 250 mm (9.8 in) long and 7 kg (15.4 lb), and the spindle nose comes within 101.6 mm (4 in) of the table. The machine weighs 4,320 kg (9,524 lb) and runs Hurco's WinMax control, which accepts conversational and NC programs.