Schneeberger Corvus

$220,000 - $310,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Number of CNC Axes

Tool Diameter Range

0.5 – 25 mm

Maximum Grinding Length

200 mm

Grinding Spindle Configuration

3-spindle head (auto-index)

Grinding Spindle Speed

Up to 10,000 RPM

Grinding Spindle Power

5.5 kW

Overview

The Schneeberger Corvus is a 5-axis CNC tool grinding machine engineered for the production of complex cutting tool geometries including drills, reamers, end mills, and form tools. Schneeberger positions the Corvus as a high-precision, compact platform suited to tool manufacturers and captive tool rooms that need genuine 5-axis simultaneous capability without the footprint or cost of a large-format universal grinder. The machine's architecture emphasizes accessibility and ease of operation alongside Swiss precision, making it a practical production tool for experienced shops and an approachable entry point for facilities moving to 5-axis grinding capability.

The Corvus accommodates tool diameters from 0.5 mm up to 25 mm and grinds lengths up to 200 mm. Its five CNC axes interpolate simultaneously, enabling complex helical flute geometries, variable pitch configurations, eccentric relief, and multi-start threading in a single setup. Schneeberger's proprietary MARS software (Modular Automatic Reporting System) provides a Windows-based programming and simulation environment with a comprehensive library of standard tool types, allowing operators to define tool geometry through guided parameter entry rather than manual CNC code writing.

The Corvus uses a three-spindle grinding head that can carry different wheel specifications simultaneously — a configuration that allows automatic selection of roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing wheels within the same grinding cycle. This eliminates manual wheel changes for most standard tool programs and significantly reduces cycle time compared to single-spindle configurations. The spindle head rotates on a high-precision CNC axis to index between wheels with repeatable positioning accuracy.

Built on a granite composite base for thermal stability and vibration damping, the Corvus integrates a high-pressure coolant system with filtration and an optional in-machine probing system for in-process tool measurement. The machine's compact design (approximately 1.8m x 1.6m footprint) makes it practical for space-constrained tool grinding cells, and Schneeberger offers automation options for extended unattended production runs.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Number Of CNC Axes	5
Tool Diameter Range	0.5 – 25 mm
Maximum Grinding Length	200 mm
Grinding Spindle Configuration	3-spindle head (auto-index)
Grinding Spindle Speed	Up to 10,000 RPM
Grinding Spindle Power	5.5 kW
Positioning Accuracy	±0.001 mm
Repeatability	±0.0005 mm
Machine Base	Granite composite
Machine Footprint	1,800 x 1,600 mm
Control System	Fanuc + Schneeberger MARS software
Coolant Pressure	Up to 60 bar

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Three-spindle head with automatic indexing eliminates manual wheel changes for most standard tool programs, reducing cycle time significantly
5-axis simultaneous interpolation handles complex helical, variable-pitch, and eccentric relief geometries in a single setup
MARS software provides guided parametric programming, making complex tool geometry accessible to machinists without G-code expertise
Granite composite base delivers excellent vibration damping and thermal stability for consistent precision
Compact footprint fits in space-constrained tool grinding cells or alongside other equipment in production environments

Limitations

25 mm maximum tool diameter limits applicability for larger shank end mills and form tools commonly used in heavy machining
5-axis (not 6-axis) configuration means some highly complex multi-start geometries may require additional setups
Three-spindle head adds mechanical complexity compared to simpler single-spindle configurations and requires careful wheel pack balancing

Best For

Job shops and captive tool rooms producing a diverse range of drills, end mills, and reamers up to 25 mm in medium volumes Tool manufacturers looking to step up to 5-axis capability with a compact machine that fits existing floor space constraints Facilities requiring automatic multi-wheel operation to minimize cycle time on complex multi-operation tool programs Tool grinding cells needing a versatile platform for both new tool production and resharpening of worn cutters

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the three-spindle head on the Corvus and how does it work?

The Corvus grinding head carries three separate spindles, each capable of holding a different wheel specification. A CNC-controlled rotation axis indexes the head to bring the selected spindle into the grinding position automatically during the cycle. For example, a single tool program might use a roughing wheel for flute grinding, then index to a CBN wheel for relief grinding, then to a finishing wheel for the tip geometry — all without stopping the cycle for a manual wheel change.

02 What is MARS software?

MARS (Modular Automatic Reporting System) is Schneeberger's Windows-based tool grinding software. It provides a library of standard tool types (drills, end mills, reamers, etc.) with parametric input screens, 3D simulation of the grinding process, collision detection, and production reporting. Operators define tool geometry by entering parameters rather than writing CNC code.

03 Can the Corvus grind carbide and HSS tools?

Yes. The Corvus is designed for both solid carbide and HSS cutting tools. Different grinding wheel specifications (diamond for carbide, CBN for HSS) are selected based on the workpiece material, and the three-spindle head can carry both types simultaneously if needed for different operations.

04 Is automation available for the Corvus?

Yes. Schneeberger offers loading automation for the Corvus that enables extended unattended production runs. The automation interface supports standard robot systems and Schneeberger's own loading equipment.

05 How does the Corvus compare to the Schneeberger Norma S?

The Corvus is positioned as a more compact, production-oriented 5-axis platform focusing on tool diameters up to 25 mm. The Norma S is Schneeberger's larger universal grinder platform accommodating tools up to 320 mm in length and offering broader configurability for special grinding applications. The Corvus suits mainstream tool production; the Norma S suits broader universal grinding needs.