Question about model number.

[l u k e]

The machine is a 2004 HAAS VF-3B.

Additional information is listed on the front of the mill is:

HAAS VOP-B
30HP 2 speed gear drive
10,000 rpm
1000 ipm

I can't locate a specifics for the HAAS site for the "B" in VF-3B, I would like to know what it stands for.

Also what is the "VOP-B" stand for?

Thanks

[wms]

Vop= "Value Option Package".. Which are options lumped together and offered at a discount..Different years had different packages..IE: VOP-A, VOP-B..etc thru VOP-E

The "B" just means it was equipped with a gearbox...

[big_mak]

Luke,

If you are looking at a machine with a geared head as opposed to belt/Direct drive, there will be marginal differences with surface finish. You would be better off with a belt or direct drive, if surface finish is a concern to you as in the earlier heated discussion.

[l u k e]

Luke,

If you are looking at a machine with a geared head as opposed to belt/Direct drive, there will be marginal differences with surface finish. You would be better off with a belt or direct drive, if surface finish is a concern to you as in the earlier heated discussion.

I think I had a misconception of the types of finishes that were achievable on cnc machines in general. The finishes are mostly a small concern in the big picture. I'm just trying to wade through everything that is available and make some kind of (un) educated guess on how to spend my money. This forum is the only "mentor" I have and I'm chomping at the bit to make a purchase!

As far as the gear head machine, I was just looking at one that was listed on ebay. I thought it may be a pretty good deal, so I was trying to price it out but couldn't find all the info on the HAAS site.

BTW, thanks for all your help.

[l u k e]

Vop= "Value Option Package".. Which are options lumped together and offered at a discount..Different years had different packages..IE: VOP-A, VOP-B..etc thru VOP-E

The "B" just means it was equipped with a gearbox...

Thanks

[Cory]

Luke,

If you are looking at a machine with a geared head as opposed to belt/Direct drive, there will be marginal differences with surface finish. You would be better off with a belt or direct drive, if surface finish is a concern to you as in the earlier heated discussion.

The gearbox option still has a belt drive between the gearbox and the spindle

[big_mak]

Even with the belt you still get vibration transmitted through to the cutting tools!!!!