Hurco VMX30i

$90,000 - $115,000 Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

X Travel

762 mm (30 in)

Y Travel

508 mm (20 in)

Z Travel

508 mm (20 in)

Max Spindle

12,000 RPM

Spindle Taper

ISO 40 (CT40 / BT40)

Tool Capacity

24-station umbrella ATC

Overview

The Hurco VMX30i is a mid-size vertical machining center built around the 30x20-inch work envelope that defines the most common job-shop sweet spot. It combines rigid box-way construction on the Y-axis with linear guideways on X and Z for a balance of vibration damping in heavy cuts and fast response in finishing passes. The spindle is a 15 kW (20 hp) direct-drive unit with a 12,000 RPM maximum speed and ISO 40 taper, paired with a 24-station umbrella-style automatic tool changer.

What separates the VMX30i from a generic 30x20 VMC is Hurco's WinMax control. WinMax allows machinists to program directly at the machine using a conversational, menu-driven interface on a 15.4-inch touch-screen without writing a single line of G-code. For prototype shops, job shops with frequent lot changes, or facilities training new machinists, this dramatically cuts setup time. The control also accepts standard G-code and DXF imports, so CAM-driven production work flows in without modification.

The VMX30i table measures 838 x 508 mm (33 x 20 in) with four T-slots and accepts up to 907 kg (2,000 lb). The machine's double-column design keeps thermal drift and frame deflection low over long shifts. Axis drives are fully digital AC servo with absolute encoders that retain position across power cycles, eliminating re-homing delays at shift start.

Positioning accuracy is ±0.005 mm (±0.0002 in) and repeatability ±0.003 mm (±0.00012 in), comparable to Japanese VMCs in the same class. Through-spindle coolant, probing, and a chip conveyor are common additions. The VMX30i is manufactured at Hurco's Indianapolis facility and carries a strong dealer service network across North America and Europe. Base price typically runs $90,000–$115,000 depending on configuration and options.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X-Axis Travel	762 mm (30 in)
Y-Axis Travel	508 mm (20 in)
Z-Axis Travel	508 mm (20 in)
Max Spindle Speed	12,000 RPM
Spindle Taper	ISO 40 (CT40 / BT40)
Spindle Motor Power	15 kW (20 hp)
Spindle Torque	95 Nm (70 ft-lb)
Tool Capacity	24-station umbrella ATC
Tool To Tool	4.5 sec
Chip To Chip	6.5 sec
Max Tool Diameter	76 mm (3 in)
Max Tool Length	300 mm (11.8 in)
Max Tool Weight	6.8 kg (15 lb)
Table Size	838 x 508 mm (33 x 20 in)
T Slots	4 slots, 63.5 mm (2.5 in) center distance
Max Table Load	907 kg (2,000 lb)
Rapid Traverse Rate	30.5 m/min (1,200 ipm) X/Y; 25.4 m/min (1,000 ipm) Z
Positioning Accuracy	±0.005 mm (±0.0002 in)
Repeatability	±0.003 mm (±0.00012 in)
Machine Weight	5,670 kg (12,500 lb)
CNC Control	Hurco WinMax (15.4-in touch-screen, conversational + G-code)
Coolant Capacity	190 L (50 gal)
Electrical	230/460 VAC 3-phase, 60 A

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

WinMax conversational control drastically reduces setup time for one-off and small-batch jobs without requiring G-code programming knowledge
Box-way Y-axis combined with linear X/Z guideways delivers strong vibration damping in heavy cuts while maintaining fast traverse speeds
12,000 RPM direct-drive spindle handles aluminum finishing and steel roughing without requiring a separate spindle upgrade option
Compact footprint relative to its 30x20-inch work envelope makes it practical for shops with limited floor space
Absolute encoders on all axes retain home position across power cycles, eliminating re-homing delays at shift start

Limitations

24-station umbrella ATC is slower (6.5-sec chip-to-chip) than the arm-type changers found on competing Mazak and DMG Mori VMCs
ISO 40 taper limits maximum tool diameter and rigidity compared to ISO 50 machines, restricting very heavy face-milling passes
Base price of $90K–$115K is noticeably higher than comparable Haas VF-2 or Taiwanese VMCs in the same travel class

Best For

Job shops doing frequent lot changes where WinMax conversational programming eliminates CAM programming overhead for simple parts Prototype and R&D facilities that need fast setup and the ability to modify programs directly at the machine Training environments where conversational programming builds machinist fundamentals before students advance to full G-code Contract manufacturers running mixed-material work in the 30-inch-and-under envelope

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What makes the WinMax control different from a standard G-code control?

WinMax uses a conversational, menu-driven interface where the machinist enters part geometry directly using a touch-screen without writing G-code. The control generates the toolpath internally. It also accepts standard ISO G-code and DXF imports, so CAM-generated programs run without modification. Most shops use both modes: conversational for quick jobs, G-code for complex CAM-generated programs.

02 How does the VMX30i compare to a Haas VF-2?

The VMX30i and Haas VF-2 share nearly identical work envelopes (30x20 in). The Haas wins on price — a VF-2 base lists around $57K versus $90K+ for the Hurco. The Hurco wins on control capability (WinMax conversational), Y-axis rigidity (box-way damping), and spindle speed (12K vs 8.1K RPM standard). For high-volume production on known G-code programs, the Haas is better value. For shops valuing programming flexibility and rigidity, the Hurco earns its premium.

03 Does the VMX30i support 4th-axis work?

Yes. The VMX30i supports a 4th-axis rotary table as a factory option, with the control wired and parameterized from the factory. WinMax supports 4th-axis indexing natively. The table size accommodates common 5-inch and 8-inch rotary tables alongside standard workholding.

04 Can the VMX30i handle stainless steel and titanium?

Yes. The box-way Y-axis provides damping stiffness for stainless and titanium when feeds and speeds are appropriate. The 20 hp spindle delivers adequate torque for these materials at reasonable material removal rates. Through-spindle coolant (optional) significantly extends tool life in stainless and titanium by keeping the cut zone cool and flushing chips.

05 What does a used Hurco VMX30i cost?

Used VMX30i machines typically sell for $40,000–$70,000 depending on age, spindle hours, and included options. Hurco dealers and auction houses are the primary sources. When evaluating used machines, check spindle hours, verify the WinMax software version is current, and confirm the ATC operates reliably through a full tool change cycle.