INDEX MS16C
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Power
number of spindles
bar capacity
turning length
number of axes
Overview
The INDEX MS16C is a 6-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatic lathe designed for high-volume production of precision turned parts from bar stock up to 16 mm diameter. Built by INDEX-Werke in Esslingen, Germany, the MS16C sits at the smaller end of the INDEX multi-spindle range and is widely used in the automotive, connector, and medical device industries where per-part cost on small components is critical. The machine uses INDEX's proven CNC multi-spindle platform with independently programmable cross slides and end-working units at each spindle position, giving it the flexibility to handle complex parts that would have required secondary operations on older cam-type multi-spindle machines.
Each of the 6 spindles is individually driven with speeds up to 7,000 RPM, and the machine provides up to 3 cross slides and 2 end-working units per station. The Siemens 840D sl CNC control manages all axes simultaneously, and INDEX's proprietary VirtualLine programming software provides 3D simulation and collision detection before the first chip is cut. The MS16C can produce cycle times under 3 seconds on simple parts, turning out 1,200+ parts per hour at peak throughput — performance that no single-spindle lathe can match regardless of how fast it runs.
The MS16C competes directly with the Tornos MultiSwiss 6x14 on small-diameter work, but takes a different approach. Where the MultiSwiss emphasizes easy setup and changeover, the INDEX MS16C is built for longer production runs where raw cycle time and output per hour matter most. Setup times on the MS16C are longer (typically 4-8 hours for a full changeover), but once running, the machine's rigid construction and powerful spindle drives deliver faster cycle times and better surface finishes in demanding materials. New MS16C machines are priced between $500,000 and $700,000. Used units from 2015-2020 trade between $280,000 and $450,000.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number Of Spindles | 6 |
| Bar Capacity | 16 mm (0.63 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 7,000 RPM per spindle |
| Turning Length | 60 mm (2.36 in) |
| Number Of Axes | Up to 31 CNC axes |
| Cross Slides Per Spindle | Up to 3 |
| End Working Units | Up to 2 per station |
| Back Working Spindle | Yes, with C-axis |
| Tool Positions | Up to 42 tool positions |
| CNC Control | Siemens 840D sl |
| Machine Weight | 7,500 kg (16,535 lb) |
| Floor Space Required | Approx. 3.8 x 2.2 m (12.5 x 7.2 ft) |
| Spindle Motor Power | 5.5 kW (7.4 hp) per spindle |
| Spindle Bore | 18 mm |
| Guest Name | Dietary Restriction |
| David | None |
| Bob | None |
| Nancy | None |
| Mary | Vegetarian |
| Formula | Formula Output |
| Index | 3 |
| Goal | Formula |
| Find Marys Dietary Restriction | =INDEX(A1:D6, MATCH("Mary", A1:A6, 0), MATCH("Dietary Restriction", A1:D1, 0)) |
| Find Who Is At Table Number 2 | =INDEX(A1:D6, MATCH(2, D1:D6, 0), MATCH("Guest Name", A1:D1, 0)) |
Specifications sourced from index-group.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Six independently driven spindles produce cycle times under 3 seconds on simple parts, delivering 1,200+ parts per hour — far beyond any single-spindle machine's capability
- Up to 3 cross slides and 2 end-working units per station provide enough tooling capacity to produce complex parts complete in a single machine cycle
- Siemens 840D sl CNC with INDEX VirtualLine software enables full 3D simulation and offline programming, reducing setup risk and proving out programs before first article
- Rigid German-built construction with individually driven spindles handles demanding materials like stainless steel and titanium with better surface finish than lighter-duty alternatives
- Back-working spindle with C-axis enables complete machining of both part ends, eliminating secondary operations and reducing work-in-process inventory
- INDEX's global service network with strong North American presence ensures faster support response compared to smaller multi-spindle manufacturers
Limitations
- Setup times of 4-8 hours for a full changeover make the MS16C impractical for short runs below 5,000-10,000 pieces — single-spindle lathes are more economical for small batches
- At $500,000-$700,000 new, the investment requires high-volume production to justify — typically 100,000+ annual parts across setups
- 16 mm maximum bar capacity limits the machine to small parts — shops needing larger diameters must move up to the MS22C or MS32C
- The complexity of 6 spindles with multiple cross slides and end-working units requires skilled setup personnel with multi-spindle experience
- Coolant management and chip evacuation with 6 spindles cutting simultaneously demands robust filtration and conveyor systems, adding to maintenance requirements
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Both are 6-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatics for small-diameter work, but they target different production profiles. The MS16C is built for longer runs with faster cycle times and more tooling capacity per station, but requires 4-8 hours for changeover. The MultiSwiss changes over in 2-4 hours and is viable for batches as small as 1,000 pieces. For runs above 20,000 pieces, the MS16C typically delivers lower per-part costs. Below that, the MultiSwiss's faster setup often wins.
02
New INDEX MS16C machines are priced between $500,000 and $700,000 depending on tooling configuration, back-working options, and peripheral equipment like bar loaders and chip conveyors. Used units from 2015-2020 trade between $280,000 and $450,000. The higher cost compared to a MultiSwiss reflects the MS16C's more robust construction, higher tooling capacity, and faster cycle time capability.
03
The MS16C uses the Siemens 840D sl CNC, the industry standard for complex multi-axis machine tools. INDEX provides their VirtualLine programming software for offline programming with full 3D simulation, collision detection, and cycle time optimization. Programs can be prepared and proven out while the machine runs production, minimizing downtime between jobs.
04
The MS16C is most economical for production runs of 10,000 pieces and above per setup. The breakeven point against single-spindle lathes depends on part complexity and cycle time, but generally falls between 3,000-8,000 pieces. Shops running the MS16C most profitably typically produce 100,000+ total parts annually across all setups, keeping the machine utilization above 70%.
Videos
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