Vmc?

[Jim 142]

I am in the market for a new vmc. It has no specific purpose and will be used for all types of jobs. Something in the 30 x 20 range with 8000-10000 spindle. I dont want a throwaway machine but I dont want to spend huge money. Because of the uncertainty of what jobs it will run, I want something very strong and rigid (heavy 10,000 lbs>). What do you all feel is the best bang for the buck?

[DareBee]

By "strong and rigid" you have limited your choices to "box way construction" machines.
Machines usually priced somewhere in the $70k < range.
Fadal, Fryer, First, Kent, Cyclone
You want inexpensive Dalain (Chinese)
There will definately be others. Just a few I happen to know of

[Jim 142]

Thanks for your reply. That is the price range I am in. It doesnt have to be a box way machine. I would rather the repeatability. What do you think of Hurco's vmx line? I am also considering mazak and bridgeport. I know they are more money but, are the worth it over a hurco or a non Japanese made machine. Bang for the buck! If it costs 60,000$ for a machine that is going to last 5 years and 100,000$ for one that will last 10+ years, I would spend the 100,000$

[DareBee]

Hurco's WinMax control looks GREAT for on-machine programming.
I have a lathe with FAGOR conversational control and it is superb (you can get these on VMCs as well).
The Fryer Anilam control looks really good.

I do mostly 1-offs, so for me a super quick-to-program control has HUGE value.

I have read some complaining about the Hurco machines in general on this forum.

I feel the Mazak is likely the highest quality machine out of the 3 you have mentioned.

[DSL PWR]

If you get a mazak make sure you can make peace with mazatrol before you write the cheque!

[Jim 142]

ah, my biggest concern with mazak.