INDEX MS52

$900,000 - $1,400,000 Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

5,000 rpm

Spindle Power

30 kW

number of spindles

max bar diameter

52 mm (2.05 in)

max part length

160 mm (6.3 in)

spindle power each

5.5 kW (7.4 hp)

Overview

The INDEX MS52 is the flagship large-bore model in INDEX-Traub's CNC multi-spindle automatic lineup, handling bar stock up to 52 mm (2.05 in) in diameter across six simultaneous spindles. The MS52 targets the higher end of the automotive fastener, hydraulic fitting, and precision component markets where medium-to-large diameter parts require the output rates that only multi-spindle machining can deliver economically.

Six CNC spindles operate simultaneously, with Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl controlling each axis independently for full programmability at every spindle station. The result is a machine that produces a finished part every drum index cycle — at this diameter range, typically 400-600 parts per hour for moderately complex parts. Live tooling is standard at each spindle position, enabling cross-drilling, milling, polygon turning, and thread milling without secondary operations on a separate machine.

The MS52 runs on a foundation of INDEX's two decades of CNC multi-spindle development, incorporating lessons from automotive supply chain requirements into the machine's design. The rigid headstock drum, precision-ground spindle bearings, and thermal management system maintain part-to-part consistency across production runs measured in millions of pieces. Spindle speed reaches 7,000 RPM per spindle, with coolant pressure up to 80 bar for through-spindle applications.

Competing with the Tornos MultiDeco 20/6 and Wickman multi-spindle machines in the 52mm class, the MS52 is priced at $900,000-$1,400,000 new. At this investment level, the machine is deployed on dedicated high-volume contracts by Tier 1 and Tier 2 automotive suppliers, hydraulic component manufacturers, and precision fastener producers where the per-part economics over millions of cycles justify the capital commitment.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Number Of Spindles	6
Max Bar Diameter	52 mm (2.05 in)
Max Part Length	160 mm (6.3 in)
Max Spindle Speed	5,000 rpm
Spindle Power Each	5.5 kW (7.4 hp)
Live Tooling	Yes (each spindle position)
CNC Control	Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl
Drum Index Time	1.0 sec
Feed Type	Bar feed (magazine or hydrodynamic)
Coolant Pressure	Up to 80 bar (1,160 psi)
Machine Weight	~22,000 kg (48,502 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))
Bar Capacity	52 mm
Spindle Motor Power	30 kW
Spindle Torque Max	130 Nm
Turret Stations	6
Cnc Control	Siemens S840D sl

Specifications sourced from index-group.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

52 mm bar capacity opens the MS52 to larger automotive and hydraulic component diameters versus 40mm-class machines
Six simultaneous spindles produce 400-600 finished parts per hour for medium-complexity parts in this diameter range
Full CNC control (Siemens 840D sl) on every spindle position enables fast changeover versus cam multi-spindles
Live tooling at each station eliminates secondary milling and drilling operations that would require separate machine time
INDEX German build quality is the standard in automotive multi-spindle applications — 20+ year service life is achievable with proper maintenance
80 bar through-spindle coolant supports demanding deep-hole drilling and hard material applications

Limitations

$900K-$1.4M investment is one of the highest capital commitments in the turning segment — requires dedicated high-volume work
Complex setup and tooling management requires specialized expertise not commonly available outside dedicated multi-spindle shops
22,000 kg machine weight requires a heavy-duty engineered concrete foundation
Economic break-even requires sustained annual volumes typically above 1 million pieces per year per part family
Parts requiring more than 6 operations need creative programming or a second machine pass

Best For

Automotive Tier 1 suppliers producing large-diameter fasteners, fittings, and powertrain components in annual volumes above 1 million pieces Hydraulic and pneumatic fitting manufacturers running 52mm-and-under medium-diameter parts in high volumes Precision bearing component manufacturers needing repeatable accuracy across multi-million-piece production campaigns Industrial fastener producers replacing worn cam multi-spindles with CNC versions to improve flexibility and reduce setup time Contract manufacturers with dedicated multi-year supply agreements that justify the MS52 capital investment

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the difference between the MS40 and MS52?

The MS52 handles bar stock up to 52 mm (2.05 in) versus the MS40's 40 mm (1.57 in) maximum. This makes the MS52 appropriate for larger-diameter parts like hydraulic fittings, automotive hubs, and larger fasteners. The MS52 is heavier, longer cycle time per index, and more expensive. If your parts fit within 40mm, the MS40 is the better choice for output rates and capital cost.

02 How does the MS52 compete with Swiss-type lathes?

For high-volume short parts under 52mm diameter, the MS52 produces 5-10 times more parts per hour than a Swiss-type lathe. Swiss-types like the Citizen L32 or Star SR-32 are more flexible, easier to set up, and better for long/slender parts. The MS52 wins decisively on throughput at volumes above 500,000 pieces per year for simpler part geometries.

03 What control system does the MS52 use?

The MS52 uses Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl, INDEX's standard CNC platform for multi-spindle machines. Each spindle position is individually controlled, allowing different tooling and operations at each station within the same drum cycle. Programming is done in standard ISO G-code with INDEX-specific cycle definitions.

04 What maintenance does the MS52 require?

The MS52 requires daily coolant system maintenance, weekly lubrication checks, and regular spindle bearing inspections. INDEX provides comprehensive maintenance schedules and remote diagnostics capability. Full spindle rebuilds are typically required at 20,000-25,000 operating hours. INDEX and certified service partners provide maintenance support globally.