Index MS 16

The Index C200-4D uses Siemens 840D SL hardware and SINUMERIK kernel as the underlying CNC platform but runs Index's proprietary machine cycles, setup dialogs, and multi-spindle synchronization software on top. Standard Siemens 840D programs the machine axes individually through G-code; the Index C200-4D adds machine-specific cycles for multi-spindle synchronization, drum indexing, and station balancing that are not available in standard Siemens 840D software. Operators familiar with Siemens 840D can operate the basic machine functions, but full multi-spindle programming requires Index-specific training on the C200-4D's additional cycles.

The MS 16 handles bar stock from approximately 2 mm to 16 mm diameter. Minimum part diameter depends on the part length and bar feed collet precision — bars under 3 mm diameter require special handling at high spindle speeds due to bar whip at high RPM. For very small parts (1–3 mm diameter) at high production volumes, Swiss-type lathes with guide bushing (Citizen Cincom, Star SR series) often have less bar vibration at small diameters. For 4–16 mm bar production, the MS 16 provides superior throughput vs Swiss-type with cycle times 4–6x shorter.

Both machines target the Swiss watchmaking and miniature precision parts market. The Sigma 20 handles up to 20 mm bar vs MS 16's 16 mm — the Sigma 20 has wider material range for larger watch case components. Both have 8,000 RPM maximum spindle speed and independent spindle control. Tornos has a stronger watchmaking brand heritage (founded in Moutier, Switzerland's watch capital) and TISIS is widely regarded as the most intuitive multi-spindle programming environment. Index's VirtualLine is also capable. For Swiss watch component production, both are premium choices — local service availability and existing brand relationships often drive the selection.

Changeover on a CNC multi-spindle like the MS 16 typically takes 1–3 hours for a moderate complexity part change (same bar size, different tooling): recalling the CNC program (programmed offline via VirtualLine), swapping and setting tools at 6 stations, setting bar feed collet if bar size changes, and running first-off parts for inspection. Tooling changeover at 6 stations simultaneously means total tooling time is similar to a 3-station single-spindle machine. Major material and bar size changes (e.g., from 8 mm to 14 mm brass) add 30–60 minutes for bar feed and collet changes. Multi-spindle is economical only on long runs — shops running under 10,000 parts per setup should consider Swiss-type lathes instead.

The Index MS 16 is compatible with standard magazine bar feeders from LNS (Alpha 338 S, Challenge S series), Iemca (BOSS series), and FMB Turbo series — any bar feeder designed for 16 mm maximum bar diameter with appropriate spindle adapter interface. Index can provide the bar feeder interface specifications for custom integration. For production environments, a 12-bar magazine capacity feeder provides approximately 4–8 hours of unmanned production depending on bar length and part cycle time. LNS and Iemca have dedicated Index interface packages for the MS series.