INDEX MS 32-8

$900,000 - $1,300,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Number of Spindles

Max Bar Diameter

32 mm

Spindle Speed (Each)

100 – 6,000 RPM (independent)

Driven Tool Speed

6,000 RPM

Cycle Time (Typical)

3–12 sec (part geometry dependent)

Bar Stock Material

Round, hex, square to 32mm

Overview

The INDEX MS 32-8 is an 8-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatic lathe with 32mm bar capacity, designed for high-volume production of complex rotationally symmetric components at output rates that individual Swiss-type lathes cannot approach. Part of INDEX's established MS-series multi-spindle family, the MS 32-8 positions bar stock in eight spindle positions simultaneously, with cutting operations occurring at every position in each machine cycle — producing one finished part per cycle at the rate of one cycle per work cycle time.

INDEX equips the MS 32-8 with individual servo drives on each spindle position, enabling independent spindle speed control at every station. This is a decisive advantage over older cam-driven multi-spindles: the MS 32-8 can optimize cutting speed per station based on the specific operation at that position rather than compromising all stations at a single synchronized speed. Driven tools are available at multiple positions, extending capability to milling, cross-drilling, and thread milling in the same machine cycle.

The CNC control architecture — based on the INDEX C200-4D control with 32-bit processing — manages all eight spindle positions, cross slides, and turret units through a unified operating system. Integrated simulation prevents collision between the densely packed tooling arrangements that are inherent to multi-spindle design. Programming is supported by INDEX's Virtual Machine simulation software, allowing offline programming and dry-run verification before production starts.

For automotive, hydraulics, and pneumatics manufacturers producing millions of components annually — valve spools, fitting bodies, connector pins, and similar rotational parts — the MS 32-8 delivers a cost-per-part advantage that cannot be achieved through single-spindle or Swiss-type approaches. The machine's 32mm capacity and 8-spindle configuration place it at the heart of the high-volume precision manufacturing sector.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Number Of Spindles	8
Max Bar Diameter	32 mm
Spindle Speed (Each)	100 – 6,000 RPM (independent)
Driven Tool Speed	6,000 RPM
Cycle Time (Typical)	3–12 sec (part geometry dependent)
Bar Stock Material	Round, hex, square to 32mm
Cross Slide Axes Per Position	X + Z per station
Total CNC Axes	25+
Control	INDEX C200-4D
Machine Weight	Approx. 14,000 kg
Footprint (W X D)	4,200 x 2,600 mm
Coolant Pressure	Up to 80 bar (optional)
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

8 simultaneous spindle positions deliver output rates of 500–1,200 parts/hour depending on geometry
Independent servo spindle drives at each station optimize cutting speed per operation
CNC multi-spindle architecture enables geometry changes without cam changeover downtime
Driven tools at multiple positions add milling and cross-drilling without secondary operations
INDEX C200-4D control with Virtual Machine simulation prevents costly multi-spindle collisions

Limitations

Capital cost exceeding $1M requires very high annual production volumes to justify ROI
Setup and tooling changeover is complex — requires specialized multi-spindle technicians
32mm maximum bar capacity excludes larger diameter work — INDEX MS 52-8 needed for larger parts

Best For

Automotive fuel system components: injector bodies, rail fittings, and valve seats in production volumes of millions per year Hydraulic and pneumatic fitting bodies in carbon steel and brass requiring sub-cycle-time economics Precision fasteners and threaded inserts where volume justifies multi-spindle tooling investment Medical device components in high-volume stainless steel where Swiss-type capacity has been exhausted

Frequently Asked Questions

01 How does the INDEX MS 32-8 differ from the MS 52-8?

The MS 32-8 handles bar stock up to 32mm while the MS 52-8 extends to 52mm capacity. Both are 8-spindle CNC multi-spindles, but the MS 52-8 has a larger machine frame, higher spindle power per position, and is configured for larger, heavier components. The MS 32-8 is more cost-effective for parts in the 10–32mm diameter range.

02 What is the cycle time of the INDEX MS 32-8?

Cycle time depends entirely on part geometry and machining operations. Simple turned parts with minimal features achieve 3–5 second cycles. Complex parts requiring milling, cross-drilling, and multiple turning passes typically run 8–15 second cycles. Because all 8 positions operate simultaneously, the machine produces one part per cycle regardless of cycle time.

03 Can the MS 32-8 machine hexagonal or non-round bar stock?

Yes. The MS 32-8 can be configured for round, hex, or square bar stock up to 32mm across-flats, subject to collet availability. This makes it applicable to hex fastener production and bar stock shapes that would otherwise require separate operations.

04 How long does a tooling changeover take on the MS 32-8?

CNC multi-spindle changeovers are significantly faster than cam-driven machines but still require careful preparation. A full product changeover — tooling, collets, bar guide, cam plate equivalents — typically takes 4–8 hours with an experienced team. Partial changeovers within a part family may take 1–2 hours. Shops running high-mix families should plan for this investment.

05 What is the ROI justification threshold for the INDEX MS 32-8?

As a general guideline, the MS 32-8 becomes economically compelling at annual volumes above approximately 500,000 parts for simple geometries, or 200,000+ parts for complex multi-feature components where the alternative would require 6–8 individual Swiss-type lathes. Detailed ROI analysis should be performed with INDEX application engineering using actual part data.