Citizen Cincom K16-VII

The Citizen Cincom K16-VII is Citizen's compact 16mm Swiss-type automatic lathe, purpose-built for high-volume production of small precision components where part diameter stays at or below 16mm. The K-series occupies a distinct niche within Citizen's Swiss lineup: maximum throughput and floor space efficiency on small-diameter work, without the additional tooling positions and axis count of the larger A and L series. For shops producing dental burs, miniature connectors, watch components, micro-fasteners, and electronic hardware, the K16-VII offers a streamlined, space-efficient platform with 7-axis control and LFV chip-breaking as standard.

The seventh-generation K16 retains the compact machine envelope that defines the K-series—a smaller footprint than any comparable Citizen Swiss platform—while incorporating the LFV chip-breaking technology that Citizen has standardized across its current-generation lineup. At 16mm bar capacity, the K16-VII specifically targets the micro-precision segment where tool overhang, bar vibration, and chip entanglement are acute concerns. LFV addresses the chip control problem definitively, making the machine viable for extended lights-out operation in materials like 316L stainless, titanium grade 5, and brass alloys commonly used in miniature precision work.

The main spindle on the K16-VII runs to 15,000 RPM—higher than Citizen's larger platforms—reflecting the smaller workpiece diameters and the surface speed requirements of 16mm bar work. Power is appropriately scaled at 1.5/2.2 kW continuous/30-minute, adequate for the light cuts and high spindle speeds that characterize small-diameter precision work. The back spindle operates at up to 15,000 RPM as well, supporting comprehensive secondary machining on the sub-spindle for complete part machining in a single setup. Tool count is lower than the A or L series at around 26 positions, reflecting the streamlined nature of the K-series but sufficient for well-planned 16mm part programs.

The FANUC 32i-B control with Citizen's software manages the 7-axis simultaneous coordination, LFV programming, and guide bushing/guide-bushless switching. Guide-bushless is available and especially relevant at 16mm where short part lengths frequently make guide-bushless operation the economic default. The K16-VII represents the entry point into Citizen's LFV-equipped Swiss lineup for shops whose entire diameter range falls within 16mm.