The HAAS VF-3 is one of the most successful and widely used CNC vertical machining centers in the manufacturing industry. Produced by Haas Automation, the VF-3 provides a larger work envelope than the VF-2 while maintaining the same operator-friendly control and dependable performance. The 1999 model remains a highly practical machine for job shops, toolrooms, and production facilities seeking an affordable and proven CNC milling solution.
The 1999 HAAS VF-3 features a rigid cast-iron structure, 40 inches of X-axis travel, 20 inches of Y-axis travel, and 25 inches of Z-axis travel. Standard machines from this era were commonly equipped with a 7,500 RPM CAT 40 spindle, a 20-position automatic tool changer, and the classic Haas CNC control. The machine is capable of machining aluminum, steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and engineering plastics with excellent repeatability and solid cutting performance.
The VF-3 is widely used for manufacturing fixture plates, mold components, aerospace brackets, tooling, automotive parts, and general production components. Its large table and robust design make it suitable for both prototype work and moderate to high-volume production.
The 1999 HAAS VF-3 continues to be popular in the used CNC market because of its low acquisition cost, readily available replacement parts, and straightforward maintenance. Many older machines remain productive when properly maintained, making the VF-3 an excellent value for shops seeking larger machining capacity at a modest investment. Current VF-3 models retain the same 40″ x 20″ x 25″ travel envelope that established this machine as a flagship model in the VF Series.
HAAS VF-3 SPECIFICATIONS
HAAS VF-3 – AXIS
Number of Axes
3-Axis Vertical Machining Center
Axis Configuration
X, Y, Z
Optional Rotary Axes
4th and 5th Axis Compatible
Positioning Accuracy
High Precision
Repeatability
Excellent
Machine Type
Vertical Machining Center
HAAS VF-3 – AXIS TRAVELS
X-Axis Travel
40 in (1,016 mm)
Y-Axis Travel
20 in (508 mm)
Z-Axis Travel
25 in (635 mm)
Rapid Traverse Rate
Up to 710 ipm
Spindle Nose to Table
4 – 29 in
Guideway Type
Linear Guideways
HAAS VF-3 – CAPACITY
Maximum Table Load
3,500 lb (1,588 kg)
Maximum Workpiece Size
Large Precision Components
Material Capability
Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron
Production Type
Prototype to Production
Workholding Compatibility
Vises, Fixtures, Rotary Tables
Industrial Usage
Precision Manufacturing
HAAS VF-3 – SPINDLE
Standard Spindle Speed
7,500 RPM
Optional Spindle Speed
10,000 RPM
Spindle Motor Power
20 hp (14.9 kW)
Spindle Taper
CAT 40
Spindle Type
Vector Drive
Rigid Tapping
Optional
HAAS VF-3 – TABLE
Table Size
48 x 18 in (1,219 x 457 mm)
T-Slots
5
Maximum Table Load
3,500 lb (1,588 kg)
Rotary Table Compatible
Yes
Workholding Support
Standard Fixtures
Table Construction
Precision Ground
HAAS VF-3 – TOOL TURRET
Tool Changer Capacity
20 Tools
Tool Change System
Automatic Carousel
Tool Holder Type
CAT 40
Maximum Tool Weight
12 lb (5.4 kg)
Tool-to-Tool Time
Approx. 4 sec
Optional Capacity
24+1 or SMTC Upgrades
HAAS VF-3 – FEEDRATES
Maximum Cutting Feed Rate
Up to 500 ipm
X-Axis Rapid Feed
Up to 710 ipm
Y-Axis Rapid Feed
Up to 710 ipm
Z-Axis Rapid Feed
Up to 710 ipm
Servo System
Brushless Servo Drives
Precision Motion Control
Yes
HAAS VF-3 – COOLANT & CHIP MANAGEMENT
Flood Coolant System
Standard
Chip Tray
Standard
Chip Auger
Optional
Chip Conveyor
Optional
Coolant Filtration
Integrated
Washdown Hose
Standard
HAAS VF-3 – CONTROL SYSTEM
CNC Control Brand
Haas CNC Control
Programming Method
G-Code and Conversational
RS-232 Connectivity
Standard
USB Support
Not Standard
Ethernet Capability
Not Standard
User Interface
Operator Friendly
HAAS VF-3 – POWER & AIR REQUIREMENTS
Power Requirement
3-Phase
Voltage
220V / 440V
Air Pressure Requirement
100 psi
Frequency
50 / 60 Hz
Pneumatic Requirement
Yes
Connected Load
Standard Industrial Power
HAAS VF-3 – DIMENSIONS
Machine Length
Approx. 3,000 mm
Machine Width
Approx. 2,500 mm
Machine Height
Approx. 2,900 mm
Machine Weight
Approx. 5,000 kg
Floor Space Requirement
Large Footprint
Installation Type
Standard Shop Floor
HAAS VF-3 – GENERAL INFORMATION
Machine Type
Vertical Machining Center
Manufacturer
Haas Automation
Country of Origin
USA
Model Year
1999
Production Environment
Prototype and Production Machining
Automation Ready
Limited
INDUSTRIES THAT USE HAAS VF-3
Aerospace
Structural Components
Automotive
Production Parts
Tool & Die
Mold Bases and Fixtures
Energy
Precision Components
General Manufacturing
Custom Machined Parts
Education
Advanced CNC Training
TYPICAL PARTS HAAS VF-3 CAN PRODUCE
Fixture Plates
Yes
Mold Bases
Yes
Aerospace Brackets
Yes
Automotive Components
Yes
Custom Tooling
Yes
Large Precision Parts
Yes
WHY CHOOSE HAAS VF-3
Large Work Envelope
Excellent
Proven Reliability
Excellent
Ease of Programming
Outstanding
Parts Availability
Extensive
Versatile Applications
Excellent
Cost Efficiency
High
WHY BUY USED HAAS VF-3
Purchasing a used 1999 HAAS VF-3 is an excellent way to obtain a large-capacity CNC machining center at a very affordable price. The machine offers significantly more travel and table capacity than smaller vertical mills, making it ideal for machining fixture plates, mold bases, aerospace components, and custom production parts.
One of the biggest advantages of buying a used VF-3 is the strong support network for Haas equipment. Replacement parts are widely available, and many technicians are experienced with these machines. The Haas control is easy to learn, which simplifies operator training and reduces programming time.
Many 1999 machines remain productive today when properly maintained. Buyers should inspect spindle bearings, ball screws, way covers, lubrication systems, and control electronics, as older machines may require service depending on prior usage. Experienced machinists often note that these machines can still hold good tolerances if they have been maintained and not heavily worn.
Because of its low purchase price, robust design, and broad machining capability, the HAAS VF-3 remains one of the best values in the used CNC market for shops needing a dependable, larger-format vertical machining center.
HOW MUCH DOES A USED HAAS VF-3 COST?
MACHINE AGE / CONDITION
ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE (USD)
1995 – 2000 Models
$8,000 – $20,000
2001 – 2005 Models
$15,000 – $30,000
2006 – 2012 Models
$25,000 – $55,000
Low Cutting Hours
Premium Pricing
Well-Maintained Machines
Higher Market Value
High Production Usage
Lower Market Value
Refurbished Machines
15% – 30% Higher
Machines with 4th Axis
Significant Premium
Machines with Tooling Packages
Added Value
Excellent Mechanical Condition
Premium Pricing
The cost of a used 1999 HAAS VF-3 depends on spindle condition, axis wear, maintenance history, and included accessories. Most machines sell between $8,000 and $20,000, with clean, low-hour machines commanding higher prices.
Machines equipped with rotary tables, vises, tooling, and upgraded controls can be worth substantially more. Buyers should carefully evaluate spindle noise, backlash, and geometric accuracy before purchasing.
For manufacturers seeking a reliable large-capacity vertical machining center at an attractive price, the HAAS VF-3 continues to deliver excellent performance and outstanding value in the used CNC equipment market.