In partnership with CENTROID, we have developed a turnkey, plug-n-play retrofit solution for upgrading HAAS VF-Series Vertical Machining Centers.
How long does it take to retrofit a CNC machine with a brand new CNC Control electronics package?
Perhaps, a lot less than you expected. Here’s our report on one of the recent CNC retrofit projects completed in under 8 hours, a full installation cycle, including removal of the old control electronics from the VF-1 mill, installation of the new electrical panel and touch control interface, cable interconnections, software setup and machine fine-tuning.
8:30AM Before the retrofit
Original Configuration: Built in 1989, customer machine had DC servo drives and 1Mb of memory installed as part of the standard configuration.
PREPARATIONS FOR THE UPGRADE
Safety always comes first! We begin preparing the machine by performing safety power down procedures and basic work area clean up.
9:00AM Retrofit Upgrade In Progress
Step 1: OEM CNC ELECTRONICS REMOVAL
We start disconnecting the cables from the OEM electrical components in the cabinet. With all the cables disconnected, we carefully remove the panel from the cabinet. Next, we remove the OEM operator console. Once the new electronics are installed, the removed panel and console will be packaged in the supplied shipping crate for return to Alfa Controls.
11:40AM Retrofit Upgrade In Progress
Step 2: NEW PANEL INSTALLATION
We remove the new panel from the shipping crate, mount it in the OEM electrical cabinet, then reconnect the cables.
1:20PM Retrofit Upgrade In Progress
Step 3: CENTROID M400 CONSOLE INSTALLATION
We remove the new CENTROID M400 Operator Console from the crate, mount it, attach the keyboard tray, then reconnect the cables.
2:45PM Retrofit Upgrade In Progress
Step 4: CONTROL SETUP
Now that the new retrofit package is installed, it is time to setup the CENTROID CNC software to ensure all machine functions performing to specification.
4:30PM Retrofit Upgrade Completed
Our crew completes the hardware installation and software setup in under 8 hours! At this point the machine is fully functional. In many ways it is actually more capable than before. With the new modern CENTROID electronics installed, your trusted machine will continue to deliver value and perform for many years to come.
Let take a quick look at the "before and after" comparison of this HAAS VF-1 VMC's capability:Before
- HAAS Control, standard configuration
- 1Mb memory included
After
- CENTROID M400 Control, standard configuration
- 120Gb memory included
- Unlimited M Functions (Subs & Macros) included
- 6 Home Positions included
- WiFi Connectivity included
- and many more features ...
