Hanwha STL-12
Key Specifications
Max Turn Length
Accuracy
max bar capacity
main spindle speed
sub spindle speed
number of axes
Overview
The Hanwha STL-12 is a compact, value-oriented Swiss-type CNC lathe designed for high-volume production of small precision parts up to 12 mm (0.472 in) diameter. Positioned as Hanwha's entry-level Swiss platform, the STL-12 targets the sweet spot for shops producing electronic connectors, watch components, miniature fasteners, and small medical parts where simplicity, reliability, and competitive pricing matter more than maximum axis count. Hanwha Precision Machinery, part of the Hanwha Group conglomerate, has steadily gained market share in the Swiss-type lathe segment with machines that offer strong value relative to Japanese and European competitors.
The STL-12 features a 10,000 rpm main spindle and 10,000 rpm sub-spindle with C-axis on both, providing full back-working capability for complete part production in a single cycle. The 5-axis base configuration (X1, Z1, X2, Z2, C1) with optional Y-axis upgrade keeps the machine accessible for straightforward turned parts while allowing growth into more complex work. The guide bushing system handles bar stock from 1 mm to 12 mm diameter, with a guide bushing-less (GBL) conversion available for shorter parts.
Tooling capacity includes up to 16 tool positions with driven tools running at 8,000 rpm. While this is fewer positions than larger Swiss machines, it covers the needs of most small-diameter parts that typically require 8-12 tools. The driven tool power of 1.0 kW is appropriate for cross-drilling and light milling in brass, aluminum, and free-machining steels — the materials that dominate the small-diameter production turning segment.
The FANUC 32i-B control provides a familiar programming environment and supports Hanwha's conversational programming option for faster setup on simpler parts. The machine's compact footprint of approximately 1,900 x 1,200 mm makes it easy to fit into existing production lines, and the straightforward mechanical design simplifies maintenance. Hanwha's oil-cooled spindles and thermal compensation system maintain dimensional accuracy over extended production runs.
New Hanwha STL-12 machines are priced between $80,000 and $120,000, making them among the most affordable Swiss-type lathes on the market. This positions the STL-12 against the Citizen A20 Type VII, Star SR-10J, and Tornos SwissNano in the small-diameter Swiss segment, typically at a 20-30% price advantage.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Bar Capacity | 12 mm (0.472 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 10,000 rpm |
| Sub Spindle Speed | 10,000 rpm |
| Number Of Axes | 5 standard (Y-axis optional) |
| Main Spindle Power | 2.2 kW (3.0 hp) |
| Sub Spindle Power | 1.5 kW (2.0 hp) |
| Live Tool Speed | 8,000 rpm |
| Tool Positions | Up to 16 |
| Guide Bushing | Standard (GBL option available) |
| C Axis | Main and sub spindle |
| CNC Control | FANUC 32i-B |
| Max Turning Length | 150 mm (5.91 in) |
| Machine Weight | 1,800 kg (3,968 lb) |
| Floor Space Required | 1,900 x 1,200 mm (74.8 x 47.2 in) |
| Positioning Accuracy | +/- 0.003 mm |
| What Industries Are You Interested Inmultiple Selections Are Possible | AllEnergy & Ocean SolutionsAerospace & Defense, MechatronicsFinanceRetail & Services |
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| Manufacturer | Complete Package Technology Ltd. |
| Model | TMC-15 |
Specifications sourced from machinio.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- At $80K-$120K, the STL-12 is one of the most affordable Swiss-type lathes available, offering a low barrier to entry for shops adding Swiss-type capability
- 10,000 rpm main and sub spindles with C-axis on both provide complete part processing for the majority of small-diameter turned parts
- Compact 1,900 x 1,200 mm footprint allows placement of multiple machines in limited floor space for high-volume production cells
- FANUC 32i-B control with conversational programming option reduces setup time and is familiar to most CNC operators
- Guide bushing-less option provides flexibility for shorter chucking-type parts without the material waste of guide bushing operation
- 8,000 rpm driven tools handle cross-drilling and light milling in brass and aluminum without requiring secondary operations
Limitations
- 12 mm maximum bar capacity limits the STL-12 to small parts — shops with diverse diameter requirements should consider the Hanwha XD20H or XD26II
- 16 tool positions may be limiting for complex multi-feature parts requiring extensive cross-work and back-working operations
- 2.2 kW main spindle power is modest — heavy material removal in stainless steel or titanium will be slow compared to more powerful Swiss machines
- Hanwha's North American service and application support network is smaller than Citizen (Marubeni), Star, or Tsugami (REM Sales)
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The Citizen A20 Type VII offers a larger 20mm capacity, more tool positions, and Citizen's LFV chip-breaking technology. The STL-12 counters with a significantly lower price point (typically 30-40% less) and a simpler, more maintainable design. For shops running primarily small parts under 12mm in brass and aluminum, the STL-12 offers excellent value. For more complex parts in difficult materials, the Citizen A20's capabilities justify its premium.
02
Yes, the STL-12 produces small medical components effectively, including dental abutments, bone screws under 4mm diameter, and small surgical instrument shafts. The machine's +/- 0.003 mm positioning accuracy and thermal compensation system support the tight tolerances medical parts demand. However, for larger medical implants or complex multi-feature parts requiring extensive cross-milling, a higher-end machine like the Tsugami B0385 may be more appropriate.
03
The STL-12 is commonly paired with compact bar feeders from LNS, FMB, or Iemca in the 12-16mm capacity range. The LNS Quick Load Servo 65 and FMB Turbo 3-12 are popular choices. Given the small bar diameter, these feeders are relatively compact and affordable, typically adding $15,000-$25,000 to the machine investment. Magazine-style bar feeders supporting 12-foot bars are standard for high-volume production.
04
The Y-axis on the STL-12 is a factory option that should be specified at time of purchase. Retrofitting a Y-axis after delivery is technically possible but significantly more expensive and complex than ordering it from the factory. If there's any chance your parts will need off-center milling or drilling, it's worth ordering the Y-axis option upfront — the incremental cost at purchase is much lower than a retrofit.
05
The STL-12 excels with free-machining brass, aluminum alloys, copper, and low-carbon steels — the materials that dominate small-diameter production turning. It can machine stainless steel and even titanium in small diameters, though the 2.2 kW spindle power limits material removal rates in these harder materials. For high-volume stainless steel or titanium work, consider a machine with more spindle power.
06
Hanwha typically offers a 2-year warranty on major mechanical and electrical components, with the spindle covered for 1-2 years depending on the dealer agreement. Warranty terms may vary by region and dealer. Hanwha's machines have a good reputation for reliability, and the relatively simple mechanical design of the STL-12 means maintenance costs tend to be lower than more complex Swiss machines.
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