Used Fadal Vertical Machining Centers (VMC) for Sale

Fadal traces its origins to 1960, when founder Francis de Caussin began machining work in Southern California. The company formally debuted as Fadal Engineering in 1980 and quickly grew into one of the largest suppliers of CNC machining centers in the United States, operating a major manufacturing facility in Chatsworth, California. By 1995 the company had sold more than 10,000 machining centers, earning a devoted following under its guiding philosophy of building machines "for machinists, by machinists." After closing in 2008, the brand was relaunched in partnership with Merrill Technologies Group in 2014 and is currently owned and operated by the Alwin family out of West Chicago, Illinois.

Fadal's flagship product line is its VMC series of CNC vertical machining centers, spanning a wide range of table sizes and work envelopes. Smaller-footprint models such as the VMC 2516 and VMC 3016L are built for light-duty and precision work, while mid-range machines like the VMC 4020 handle medium-sized workpieces with 21-station automatic tool changers and rapid traverse rates up to 400 IPM. The large-format VMC 6030 and VMC 6030 HT — among the most sought-after models on the used market — feature a 62.5-inch by 30-inch table, a 22.5 HP high-torque spindle, 10,000 RPM capability, and heavy box-way construction for demanding milling and contouring work. The VMC 8030 extends that capacity further for the largest workpieces. Controls evolved from the CNC 88 and CNC 88HS through the 32MP and the current 64MP, all sharing a consistent, easy-to-learn interface.

Fadal vertical machining centers serve a broad cross-section of precision manufacturing industries. Aerospace and defense shops rely on them for aluminum and titanium structural components, while automotive suppliers use them for fixtures, housings, and production tooling. Medical device manufacturers value their accuracy and repeatability for implants and instrument components. Mold and die shops, energy-sector fabricators, and general job shops running mixed materials — including steel, aluminum, brass, plastics, and composites — also make up a significant share of the installed base.

Used Fadal vertical machining centers attract strong buyer interest for several well-established reasons. The machines are built around rigid box-way or roller-way construction that delivers long-term accuracy and vibration damping, meaning well-maintained examples from the 1990s and 2000s still hold tight tolerances. Spare parts are widely available through both the current manufacturer and a robust network of third-party suppliers, keeping maintenance costs manageable on older machines. The proprietary Fadal control is consistently praised for its shallow learning curve, reducing training time for new operators. Combined with purchase prices that can run significantly below equivalent new machines, these factors make used Fadal VMCs a practical, cost-effective choice for shops at every scale.

Vertical machining centers (VMCs) are the most popular CNC milling machines, featuring a vertically oriented spindle. VMCs are versatile, accessible, and ideal for 3-axis machining of prismatic parts, mold cavities, and general-purpose work. Their open design provides easy access for part loading and visual monitoring of operations.

Meadoworks is your trusted source for used Fadal equipment. As third-generation industrial equipment dealers and AMEA-certified appraisers with over 50 years of experience, we offer quality-inspected Fadal machines at competitive prices. Browse the 3 used Fadal machines listed above, or call 800-323-0307 for equipment not yet listed.

Every machine includes detailed specifications and high-resolution photos, and inspection visits are available for most equipment. We ship worldwide with experienced rigging partners and offer financing for qualified buyers. Have Fadal equipment to sell? Get a free valuation or contact our team.