Schaublin 180 CNC
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Power
Max Turn Length
Accuracy
max turning diameter
max bar diameter
Overview
The Schaublin 180 CNC is a larger-format precision CNC turning center from Schaublin Machines SA, stepping up from the 125 CNC to accommodate medium-size precision turned components with bar capacity up to 80 mm (3.15 in) and maximum turning diameter of 300 mm (11.8 in). The 180 CNC serves precision manufacturers that regularly encounter parts exceeding the 125 CNC's capacity while maintaining the Swiss precision construction and Schaublin heritage that define the brand.
The 180 CNC's spindle operates at 3,500 RPM maximum with a 15 kW (20 hp) direct-drive motor, providing the torque required for medium-diameter precision turning in steel, stainless, titanium, and superalloys. The 12-station turret provides adequate tooling capacity for complex production programs. An optional sub-spindle and live tooling configuration enables complete front-and-back machining in a single setup, making the machine suitable for fully automated production cells.
Schaublin's precision way system maintains 0.004 mm positioning accuracy across the larger 180 CNC's travel, providing the geometric accuracy foundation that precision instrument, medical, and aerospace component machining requires. The cast iron bed's substantial mass (approximately 6,500 kg) delivers excellent vibration damping for consistent surface finish quality on long machining cycles at precision cutting parameters.
At $250,000-$400,000 new, the Schaublin 180 CNC is a premium machine investment appropriate for shops where Schaublin's Swiss origin and precision capability justify the price differential over Korean and Taiwanese mid-size lathes. The machine competes with Hardinge's precision turning products and spinner CNC lathes in the European precision turning segment.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Turning Diameter | 300 mm (11.8 in) |
| Max Bar Diameter | 80 mm (3.15 in) |
| Max Turning Length | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 3,500 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | 15 kW (20 hp) |
| Spindle Type | Direct drive |
| Spindle Nose | A2-6 |
| Chuck Size | 10" (250 mm) |
| Turret Stations | 12 |
| Live Tooling | Optional |
| Sub Spindle | Optional |
| Positioning Accuracy | 0.004 mm (0.00016 in) |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 0i-TF |
| Machine Weight | ~6,500 kg (14,330 lb) |
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 80 mm bar capacity extends Schaublin precision to medium-diameter components including medical housings, valve bodies, and instrument components
- 15 kW (20 hp) direct-drive spindle provides adequate torque for precision medium-diameter turning in titanium and stainless
- 6,500 kg machine mass provides excellent vibration damping for consistent precision surface finish
- Swiss-manufactured to Schaublin's 100+ year precision construction standard
- Fanuc 0i-TF control with optional sub-spindle enables complete automated machining cycles
- 0.004 mm positioning accuracy maintained over the 180 CNC's larger work envelope
Limitations
- 3,500 RPM maximum spindle speed is low for modern CNC lathes — limits surface speed on smaller-diameter features in a setup
- $250K-$400K is 3-4x the cost of Korean mid-size CNC lathes with similar turning capacity
- Schaublin North American service network is limited
- Sub-spindle and live tooling are optional — must be specified at order, not field-retrofitted on all configurations
- European machine focused on Swiss-made supply chain markets — less common in North American job shops
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The Schaublin 180 CNC handles bar stock up to 80 mm (3.15 in) in diameter, with maximum turning diameter of 300 mm (11.8 in) for chucked work. This covers medium-size precision turned components including instrument housings, medical device components, and precision industrial parts.
02
A sub-spindle is available as an option on the Schaublin 180 CNC, enabling complete front-and-back machining in a single automated cycle. The sub-spindle must be specified at time of order. Combined with a live tooling turret (also optional), the machine provides full turn-mill capability for complex parts.
03
The 180 CNC offers larger bar capacity (80 mm vs 65 mm), higher spindle power (15 kW vs less), more turret stations (12 vs 10), and a larger turning envelope. The 180 CNC weighs more (6,500 vs 4,500 kg) for better vibration damping on larger parts. Choose the 125 CNC for smaller precision parts; the 180 CNC when parts regularly exceed 65 mm diameter.
04
The Schaublin 180 CNC is manufactured by Schaublin Machines SA in Bévilard, Switzerland, in the Swiss Jura Arc — the same region that houses Studer, ETA, and other precision manufacturing companies. Swiss manufacturing origin is significant for supply chain qualification in European precision industries.
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