Nexturn BN-512

$350,000 - $550,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Rapid Traverse

30 m/min (1,181 ipm)

Accuracy

±0.003 mm

max bar capacity

51 mm (2.008 in)

max machining length

250 mm (9.84 in)

number of axes

12-axis simultaneous

main spindle speed

6,000 RPM

Overview

The Nexturn BN-512 is a 51mm bar capacity, 12-axis CNC Swiss-type automatic lathe representing Nexturn's most capable platform in the BN series. At 51mm bar capacity with 12 simultaneous axes, the BN-512 enters a rarefied segment of Swiss-type machining — machines large enough to compete with small conventional CNC turning centers on bar diameter while retaining the guide-bushing-supported Swiss-type precision and done-in-one complete machining capability that makes Swiss-type technology attractive for complex parts. This is among the largest commercially available Swiss-type bar capacities, and at 12 axes the BN-512 offers more simultaneous axis capability than virtually all competing large-diameter Swiss platforms.

The BN-512's 12-axis architecture enables extensive parallel machining across main spindle, sub-spindle, and multiple driven tool positions. With C-axis and Y-axis on both main and sub-spindle sides, the machine can simultaneously perform complex milling operations on the front and back faces of a part while the spindles maintain their primary turning and facing operations. For large, complex parts — hydraulic manifold adapters, orthopedic implant bodies, aerospace actuator components — this parallel machining capability reduces the cycle time gap between Swiss-type and dedicated machining center approaches. The 12-axis architecture is Nexturn's strongest competitive differentiator in this size class.

The main spindle delivers up to 6,000 RPM with 15 kW of power, reflecting the higher cutting forces at 51mm diameter in materials like stainless steel and titanium. The sub-spindle provides 7.5 kW for backworking. Up to 40 tool positions support the complex part geometries that justify the investment in a machine of this size and capability. The guide bushing provides the fundamental Swiss-type advantage: workpiece support at the cutting zone regardless of the part's length-to-diameter ratio, allowing slender parts well beyond what a conventional lathe could hold unsupported to be machined with consistent accuracy.

At 51mm bar capacity, the BN-512 competes against the Hanwha XD42H (42mm), the Citizen Cincom D32 (32mm), and approaches the Tsugami B0513 (51mm). The BN-512's 12-axis count exceeds most competitors at this diameter. New machines in typical production configuration price from $350,000 to $550,000, positioning the BN-512 as a premium-capability platform at a price still competitive against Japanese large-diameter Swiss machines. For manufacturers of large-diameter complex precision parts who need Swiss-type complete machining at the upper end of the bar capacity range, the BN-512 is a technically compelling option.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Bar Capacity	51 mm (2.008 in)
Max Machining Length	250 mm (9.84 in)
Number Of Axes	12-axis simultaneous
Main Spindle Speed	6,000 RPM
Main Spindle Power	15 kW (20 hp)
Sub Spindle Speed	6,000 RPM
Sub Spindle Power	7.5 kW (10 hp)
C Axis	Both main and sub-spindle
Y Axis	Both main and sub-spindle sides
Tool Positions	Up to 40
Driven Tool Speed	6,000 RPM
Guide Bushing	Yes (precision Swiss-type)
Positioning Accuracy	±0.003 mm
Rapid Traverse Rate	30 m/min (1,181 ipm)
CNC Control	Fanuc 32i-B5
Machine Weight	5,500 kg (12,125 lb)

Specifications sourced from nexturn.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

12-axis simultaneous control is among the highest axis counts available in any large-diameter Swiss-type lathe, enabling extensive parallel front and back machining that reduces cycle time on complex parts
51mm bar capacity opens the BN-512 to part families — orthopedic implant bodies, hydraulic manifold adapters, aerospace actuator components — that exceed the capacity of most Swiss-type machines
Y-axis on both main and sub-spindle sides enables complex off-center milling and drilling on front and back faces simultaneously, eliminating the need for secondary milling center operations
15 kW main spindle power supports aggressive material removal in stainless steel, titanium, and Inconel at 51mm diameter — avoiding the underpowered spindle limitation of smaller Swiss platforms attempting large-diameter work
Competitive pricing versus Japanese and Swiss 51mm platforms — typically priced below the Tsugami B0513 and Japanese equivalent at comparable axis specification

Limitations

6,000 RPM maximum spindle speed limits surface speed on smaller-diameter features cut on a 51mm machine — shops needing high-speed finishing of small features may find the RPM ceiling restrictive
At 5,500 kg, the BN-512 requires substantial floor space and a structurally appropriate mounting surface — multi-machine cell configurations require facility planning
12-axis simultaneous programming demands advanced multi-channel CAM capability and experienced Swiss-type programmers; shops new to Swiss-type machining face a steeper setup learning curve at this complexity level

Best For

Orthopedic implant manufacturers producing large implant bodies, femoral stem components, and spinal implant housings from titanium bar in the 32-51mm range requiring complete turning and milling in one cycle Hydraulic and fluid power manufacturers producing large manifold adapters, valve bodies, and cylinder end caps at 32-51mm diameter with multiple ported cross-holes and precision bore features Aerospace precision parts manufacturers producing actuator bodies, hydraulic fitting assemblies, and structural connector components requiring done-in-one bar-fed Swiss production at larger diameters Contract precision shops with established Swiss-type production capability looking to extend bar capacity to 51mm without investing in a dedicated CNC turning center for the large-diameter work

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What makes 51mm Swiss-type machining different from using a CNC turning center?

The guide bushing is the defining difference. On a Swiss-type machine, the guide bushing supports the bar at the cutting zone, enabling long slender parts to be machined with minimal deflection regardless of the overhang length. A CNC turning center holds the part in a chuck, limiting the unsupported overhang to about 3x the diameter before vibration and deflection become problems. For parts with length-to-diameter ratios above 3:1, or for complex parts requiring extensive milling on both ends completed in a single cycle, the BN-512's Swiss-type architecture offers precision and cycle time advantages a turning center cannot match.

02 How does the BN-512 compare to the Hanwha XD42H at large bar diameters?

The BN-512 offers 9mm more bar capacity (51mm vs 42mm) and significantly more simultaneous axes (12 vs 6-8). For parts requiring 42-51mm bar, the BN-512 is the relevant choice. The Hanwha XD42H covers the 32-42mm range and benefits from Hanwha's stronger North American service presence. For the 51mm Swiss-type segment specifically, the BN-512 and Tsugami B0513 are the primary comparisons, with the BN-512 offering more axes at competitive pricing.

03 What is the guide bushing bore on the BN-512?

The BN-512 guide bushing accommodates bar stock up to 51mm diameter. The guide bushing must be fitted to the actual bar diameter being run — typically within 0.005-0.01mm of the bar's actual diameter for optimal support and minimal runout. Guide bushings are available from Nexturn in bore sizes covering common bar stock diameters, and custom bore sizes can be ordered for non-standard bar dimensions.

04 What type of bar feeder is required for the BN-512?

The BN-512 requires a bar feeder rated for 51mm stock diameter and the appropriate weight capacity for 51mm bar. LNS Hydrobar or IEMCA Master series feeders in appropriate bore sizes are compatible. At 51mm diameter, steel bar is significantly heavier than small-diameter Swiss stock, so the bar feeder must be sized for the linear weight of 51mm bar. A 12-foot bar feeder is standard; shorter feeders are available for confined floor space situations.

05 What is the power requirement for the BN-512?

The BN-512 requires three-phase electrical service appropriate for the 15 kW main spindle plus auxiliary systems — typically 460V/3-phase/60Hz in North American facilities. Total connected load with all auxiliary systems (coolant, chip conveyor, hydraulics) is approximately 30-40 kW. Nexturn provides electrical specification documents for site preparation that detail exact power, pneumatic, and cooling requirements.