Petermann Petida 6-Spindle Multi-Spindle Lathe
Key Specifications
Number of Spindles
Maximum Bar Diameter
Minimum Bar Diameter
Spindle Speed
Drive System
Indexing Precision
Overview
The Petermann Petida is a 6-spindle multi-spindle automatic lathe from Petermann S.A., a Swiss manufacturer with over 70 years of experience producing precision automatic lathes for the watchmaking, medical, and instrument industries. Unlike Tornos and Bechler machines which have been absorbed into larger groups, Petermann remains an independent manufacturer focused on the small-diameter (under 20mm) bar work segment. The Petida accommodates bar stock from 2 mm to 20 mm in diameter across its 6 spindles, with mechanical cam-driven tooling and indexing at speeds up to 6,000 RPM. The machine is optimized for the Swiss watchmaking industry, producing gears, axles, stems, and other miniature components in brass, aluminum, and stainless steel at extremely tight tolerances. The Petida's precision indexing mechanism achieves positioning repeatability of under 1 micron, enabling production of components that meet the demanding quality requirements of Swiss watch movements.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number Of Spindles | 6 |
| Maximum Bar Diameter | 20 mm (0.79 in) |
| Minimum Bar Diameter | 2 mm |
| Spindle Speed | Up to 6,000 RPM |
| Drive System | Cam-driven (mechanical) |
| Indexing Precision | Under 1 micron repeatability |
| Working Positions | 6 front + back working positions |
| Cross-Working | 4 cross-tool positions per spindle |
| Materials | Brass, aluminum, stainless, titanium |
| Bar Feed | Magazine bar feeder compatible |
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Swiss precision indexing under 1 micron — highest accuracy in cam-driven multi-spindle class
- Handles very small bar diameters down to 2mm for miniature components
- Optimized for watchmaking quality requirements in brass and stainless
- Independent Swiss manufacturer with deep customer relationships
- Long machine life — Petida machines run for decades with maintenance
Limitations
- Cam-driven only — no CNC reprogramming, long changeover times
- New machine production limited — Petermann is a small company with long delivery
- 20mm maximum diameter restricts to small precision parts only
- Highly specialized — best value in watchmaking and instrument sectors specifically
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
No. Petermann remains an independent Swiss company, unlike Bechler which was acquired by Tornos Group. Petermann focuses exclusively on the under-20mm precision multi-spindle market for Swiss watchmaking and related industries.
02
The Petida uses a precision indexing mechanism with thermal compensation that maintains positioning repeatability under 1 micron — significantly tighter than typical cam-driven multi-spindles which achieve 2-5 micron repeatability. This level of precision is required for Swiss watch movement components.
03
Yes. With appropriate tooling and cutting parameters, the Petida handles Grade 2 and Grade 5 titanium for medical instruments. Titanium requires lower speeds and careful chip management due to its tendency to work-harden.
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