Index MS 50-4 CNC Multi-Spindle Automatic Lathe

$500,000 – $750,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Number of Spindles

Max Bar Diameter

50 mm (1.97 in)

Max Spindle Speed

7,000 RPM

Spindle Motor Power

30 kW (40 hp)

Bar Feed Capacity

3,000 mm (118 in) bar length

Cross Slides

4 cross slides + 4 end-working slides

Overview

The Index MS 50-4 is a compact four-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatic lathe from Index-Werke, designed for mid-volume production and shops transitioning from single-spindle turning centers to multi-spindle productivity. With a maximum bar diameter of 50 mm across four fully CNC-controlled spindle positions, the MS 50-4 occupies a productive middle ground between high-output six-spindle machines and single-spindle Swiss-type lathes, offering genuine multi-spindle throughput gains at a smaller capital investment and reduced floor space requirement.

The four-spindle configuration makes the MS 50-4 particularly well-suited for complex parts that carry many operations per piece. Where a six-spindle machine divides a complex part's operations across six positions, the four-spindle layout consolidates more operations at each position, which can actually simplify tooling and programming for parts with fewer than six distinct operation groups. This makes the MS 50-4 a natural fit for shops running medium-complexity parts in annual volumes of 50,000 to 500,000 pieces.

Index's iXpanel control on a Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl base governs all CNC axes on the MS 50-4. Each of the four positions carries independent cross slides and end-working units, with driven tool capability available at all positions. The machine supports Index's DriveLine technology, which synchronizes spindle and feed axis movements for high-precision thread cutting and tapping without the need for a separate synchronous tapping unit.

The MS 50-4 features a notably compact machine envelope for a multi-spindle — roughly 40% smaller in footprint than Index's eight-spindle MS 52-8 — making it accessible to shops that cannot dedicate a full production cell to a larger machine. Standard equipment includes centralized automatic lubrication, coolant filtration with 80-bar through-tool high-pressure option, integrated chip conveyor, and a bar stock monitoring system. The machine is CE-marked and meets current European and North American electrical and safety standards.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Number Of Spindles	4
Max Bar Diameter	50 mm (1.97 in)
Max Spindle Speed	7,000 RPM
Spindle Motor Power	30 kW (40 hp)
Bar Feed Capacity	3,000 mm (118 in) bar length
Cross Slides	4 cross slides + 4 end-working slides
Control System	Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl (Index iXpanel)
Machine Weight	Approx. 9,500 kg (20,900 lb)
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))

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Four-spindle layout offers multi-spindle productivity at significantly lower capital cost than six- or eight-spindle alternatives
Compact footprint — roughly 40% smaller than six-spindle machines — fits shops with limited floor space
Larger 50 mm bar capacity covers a wide range of components not achievable on smaller 32–36 mm class multi-spindles
Index DriveLine synchronous tapping eliminates the need for separate tapping heads, simplifying tooling setup

Limitations

Four working positions limit cycle time gains on simple parts — six-spindle machines will outproduce the MS 50-4 on low-operation-count parts
30 kW spindle motor is less suited to aggressive stock removal in large-diameter hardened steel compared to larger Index models
Tooling investment is still substantial — quality multi-spindle tooling for a four-position setup typically runs $50,000–$150,000 per job

Best For

Mid-volume precision component shops running 50,000 to 500,000 pieces per year who need multi-spindle productivity without full multi-spindle capital outlay Parts with 4–8 operations in the 25–50 mm bar size range including turned profiles, drilled holes, and threaded features Shops converting from multiple single-spindle turning centers to a single multi-spindle machine to reduce labor and floor space

Frequently Asked Questions

01 Is the Index MS 50-4 suitable for a shop that has never operated a multi-spindle machine before?

The MS 50-4 is one of the more accessible multi-spindle machines for shops new to the technology. Its four-spindle layout is simpler to program and tool than six- or eight-spindle machines, and Index provides dedicated multi-spindle training at its Esslingen facility. That said, shops should plan for a 6–12 month learning curve before achieving optimal OEE on the machine.

02 What is the difference between the MS 50-4 and a Swiss-type lathe for long slender parts?

The MS 50-4 uses a fixed headstock design and is optimized for shorter, chunkier parts where bar diameter is significant relative to length. Swiss-type lathes use a sliding headstock and guide bushing for long slender parts where length-to-diameter ratios exceed 3:1. The MS 50-4 will significantly outproduce a single-spindle Swiss type on short parts, but Swiss types are better suited to long precision pins and shafts.

03 Can the MS 50-4 handle stainless steel production?

Yes. The MS 50-4 is rated for stainless steel machining with appropriate tooling and high-pressure coolant. The 80-bar through-tool coolant option is strongly recommended for stainless steel to manage chip breaking and tool life. Index recommends premium carbide or cermet inserts from suppliers like Sandvik or Iscar for best results in 304 and 316L stainless.