Industrial CNC Machine Directory

INDEX MS20-6

$400,000 - $700,000 Updated 2026-03-16
01

Key Specifications

Rapid Traverse

30 m/min

number of spindles

6

max bar capacity

20 mm (0.787 in)

max turning diameter

28 mm (1.10 in)

max machining length

80 mm (3.15 in) per spindle position

spindle speed

Up to 10,000 RPM per spindle

02

Overview

The INDEX MS20-6 is a 6-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatic lathe optimized for high-speed production of small-diameter precision parts up to 20 mm bar stock. Purpose-built for the connector, electronic hardware, and miniature hydraulic component segments, the MS20-6 achieves parts-per-hour rates that no single-spindle Swiss-type or turning center can approach for parts in this size class. With six spindle positions simultaneously machining six parts at different operation stages, the MS20-6 delivers one completed part per cycle time of the longest single-position operation—often under 10 seconds for simple parts.

The MS20-6 employs Siemens 840D sl CNC control with full servo drives on all axes, enabling changeover in a matter of hours compared to the days required for cam-type multi-spindle automatics. All six spindles are servo-driven with independent speed control, enabling optimum cutting conditions at every spindle position rather than running all positions at a compromise speed. The machine supports live tooling at selected positions for cross-drilling and milling operations that extend the machine's capability beyond simple turned profiles.

INDEX's MS20-6 is designed specifically for the sub-20 mm production segment where Swiss-type lathes handle individual parts with flexibility but cannot match the pure throughput of a multi-spindle automatic. For applications requiring millions of small precision parts annually—connector pins, electronic terminals, miniature fittings, medical needles, and small fasteners—the MS20-6 represents the most cost-effective production solution available.

The machine's compact footprint relative to its output rate, combined with integrated chip management and coolant systems, enables efficient installation in precision parts manufacturing facilities. INDEX's long service network in North America and Europe supports the machine through its working life in demanding production environments.

03

Full Specifications

Parameter Value
Number Of Spindles 6
Max Bar Capacity 20 mm (0.787 in)
Max Turning Diameter 28 mm (1.10 in)
Max Machining Length 80 mm (3.15 in) per spindle position
Spindle Speed Up to 10,000 RPM per spindle
Live Tool Speed 8,000 RPM
Number Of Axes Up to 2 NC axes per spindle position + live tool axes
Tool Positions Up to 4 tools per spindle position (24 total)
CNC Control Siemens 840D sl
Rapid Traverse Rate 30 m/min
Machine Weight Approx. 12,000 kg (26,455 lb)
Power Consumption 55 kVA
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

04

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

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Limitations

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05

Best For

Connector and electronic hardware manufacturers producing pins, terminals, and contacts in brass, copper, and stainless in annual volumes above 500,000 parts Automotive Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers producing small precision components—ABS sensor pins, fuel injector orifice bodies, small hydraulic fittings—in the sub-20mm diameter range Medical device manufacturers producing needles, implant screws, and small precision hardware at high volumes with consistent dimensional control Fastener manufacturers producing precision aerospace and automotive fasteners in the 5–20mm diameter range Contract manufacturers with committed long-term high-volume programs in small-diameter precision turned components
06

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the price of an INDEX MS20-6?

New INDEX MS20-6 multi-spindle automatic lathes typically range from $400,000 to $700,000 depending on live tooling configuration and options. The wide range reflects significant variation in tooling setup complexity across different applications.

02 How does the MS20-6 compare to a Swiss-type lathe for small-diameter production?

For parts below 20mm diameter, the MS20-6 delivers 4–6x the throughput of a single Swiss-type lathe at comparable quality. The tradeoff is significantly higher investment cost and setup complexity. For annual volumes above 500,000 parts, the MS20-6 economics typically win convincingly. For lower volumes or highly variable programs, Swiss-type lathes with automation are more flexible.

03 What is the effective cycle time on the MS20-6?

Effective cycle time equals the time of the longest single-position operation. For many simple connector-type parts this is under 8–12 seconds, yielding 300–450 finished parts per hour from a single machine—a rate that would require 6 high-speed Swiss-type lathes to match.

04 What materials can the MS20-6 process?

The MS20-6 handles free-machining steel, stainless steel grades, brass and copper alloys, aluminum, and titanium. The high spindle speeds (up to 10,000 RPM) are particularly well-suited for small-diameter aluminum and brass work where surface speed requirements demand high RPM.

05 How long does changeover take on the MS20-6?

CNC changeover on the MS20-6 typically requires 4–12 hours depending on part complexity and tooling difference from the previous job. This is the key advantage over cam-type multi-spindle automatics where cam changes require 2–4 days. INDEX's standardized tooling system and changeover procedures help minimize changeover time.

07

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Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.

08

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