Petermann Petida 6/32
Key Specifications
Number of Spindles
Max Bar Diameter
Max Spindle Speed
Spindle Motor Power
Bar Feed Capacity
Cross Slides
Overview
The Petermann Petida 6/32 is a six-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatic lathe produced by Petermann, a Swiss precision machine tool builder specializing in multi-spindle technology. The Petida designation refers to Petermann's flagship multi-spindle automatic series, and the 6/32 configuration specifies six spindles with a 32 mm maximum bar capacity — a combination that covers a broad range of precision turned components in automotive, hydraulic, and watch & clock industries.
Petermann's design philosophy emphasizes precision and thermal stability. The Petida 6/32's machine structure is built to Swiss standards of rigidity, with precision-ground spindle drum components and a thermal management system designed to maintain dimensional consistency over multi-shift production runs. Each of the six spindle positions receives independent CNC longitudinal and cross-slide control, with synchronization managed by Petermann's proprietary cycle optimization software that maximizes the overlap of operations across stations to minimize the master cycle time.
The Petida 6/32 is equipped with Siemens CNC control and supports a comprehensive tooling system including axial and radial live tooling, thread whirling attachments, and polygon turning units. The machine's tooling carriers are designed for quick-change capability, reducing downtime during tool replacement. Integrated measuring probes on selected spindle stations allow in-process dimensional verification, reducing scrap and supporting statistical process control for quality-critical applications.
The Petida 6/32 serves customers in European and international precision manufacturing industries, with particular strength in the Swiss watch and clock component sector where its accuracy and surface finish capabilities are prized. It also sees wide adoption in automotive fuel systems, medical device components, and precision instrument manufacturing, where consistent quality across high-volume production batches is non-negotiable.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number Of Spindles | 6 |
| Max Bar Diameter | 32 mm |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | 18 kW (main spindle drive) |
| Bar Feed Capacity | 3,200 mm bar length (with servo bar feed) |
| Cross Slides | 6 radial slides + 6 axial slides with live tooling options |
| Control System | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 12,500 kg |
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Swiss-precision construction delivers exceptional geometric accuracy over long production runs
- High spindle speed (8,000 RPM) enables efficient machining of aluminum and brass components
- In-process measuring probe option supports SPC and reduces scrap in quality-critical production
- Comprehensive live tooling system allows complete part machining in one cycle
Limitations
- Premium Swiss pricing places it at the higher end of the 32 mm multi-spindle market
- Petermann has a smaller global service network than larger German or Japanese competitors
- Specialization in Swiss watchmaking heritage means some automotive tooling options require custom adaptation
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The Petida 6/32 was developed with Swiss precision industries in mind, and it remains particularly popular in watch and clock component manufacturing where fine surface finish and sub-micron roundness are expected. It also serves automotive, medical, and instrumentation sectors where those same precision standards apply to higher-volume production.
02
Yes, thread whirling attachments are available for the Petida 6/32, making it suitable for the single-pass production of threads on bone screws, dental implants, and other medical components. Thread whirling produces excellent surface finish and thread form accuracy without requiring secondary grinding operations.
03
Both machines target the 32 mm six-spindle CNC market, but they reflect different heritage traditions. The Petida 6/32 emphasizes Swiss precision construction and is particularly optimized for watchmaking and fine precision components. The Index MS 32-6 has a stronger automotive production pedigree and a larger global service network. For pure precision and surface finish, Petermann's Swiss engineering is a differentiator; for volume automotive production with broad support, Index is often preferred.
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