Machine Comparison
INDEX C100 vs Tornos DECO 20a
INDEX-Traub vs Tornos · Swiss-Type Lathes
Summary
The INDEX C100 from INDEX-Traub and Tornos DECO 20a from Tornos are direct competitors in the swiss-type lathes category. The INDEX C100 leads in rapid traverse (60 m/min (2,362 ipm) vs 30 m/min (1,181 ipm)). These machines are closely matched across most specifications, making the decision more about specific feature priorities, dealer support, and your existing shop ecosystem than raw spec advantages. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a swiss-type lathe.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | INDEX C100 | Tornos DECO 20a |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Traverse | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) ▲ | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) |
| Control | Fanuc 31i-B | Tornos TB-DECO / TISIS |
| Max Bar Capacity | 42 mm (1.65 in) ▲ | 20.5 mm (0.807 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 7,000 RPM | 10,000 RPM ▲ |
| Main Spindle Power | 22/29 kW (29.5/38.9 HP) ▲ | 5.5 kW (7.4 hp) |
| Counter Spindle Speed | 7,000 RPM | 10,000 RPM ▲ |
| Counter Spindle Power | 16.5/19 kW (22.1/25.5 HP) ▲ | 3.7 kW (5 hp) |
| Price Range | $300,000 - $450,000 | $200,000 - $350,000 ▲ |
Advantages
INDEX C100
- Faster rapid traverse at 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) reduces non-cutting time between operations
- Superior max bar capacity at 42 mm (1.65 in) vs 20.5 mm (0.807 in)
- Superior main spindle power at 22/29 kW (29.5/38.9 HP) vs 5.5 kW (7.4 hp)
- Superior counter spindle power at 16.5/19 kW (22.1/25.5 HP) vs 3.7 kW (5 hp)
Tornos DECO 20a
- Superior main spindle speed at 10,000 RPM vs 7,000 RPM
- Superior counter spindle speed at 10,000 RPM vs 7,000 RPM
- More competitive pricing at $200,000 - $350,000 compared to $300,000 - $450,000
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The INDEX C100 and Tornos DECO 20a trade advantages across different specifications, making neither a clear winner on paper alone. Your decision should come down to practical factors: which dealer is closer, which control system your operators already know, what tooling ecosystem you're invested in, and which machine's specific strengths match your highest-volume work. Get quotes on both, run test cuts with your actual parts if possible, and factor in long-term service and support costs.