Schütte SC12
Key Specifications
Rapid Traverse
number of spindles
max bar capacity
max turning diameter
max machining length
spindle speed
Overview
The Schütte SC12 is a 12-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatic lathe representing the apex of high-volume precision turned parts production. With 12 spindle positions operating simultaneously—each machining a different operation stage—the SC12 delivers throughput rates that define maximum production capacity for precision turned components in the global manufacturing industry. Schütte, a German manufacturer with over a century of multi-spindle expertise, designed the SC12 for the most demanding automotive, connector, and hydraulic production programs where cycle times must be minimized at any volume.
The SC12's 12-spindle configuration doubles the number of simultaneous machining positions compared to 6-spindle alternatives, reducing the cycle time bottleneck at each individual position and enabling faster overall parts-per-hour output on complex parts with many operations. Each spindle position operates independently with servo-driven axes and CNC-controlled tooling, providing the flexibility to balance operations across the 12 positions and minimize the bottleneck position cycle time.
Schütte's engineering approach to multi-spindle automatics emphasizes rigidity, thermal stability, and long-term precision retention—hallmarks of German machine tool engineering. The SC12 incorporates precision ground machine components, servo drives on all axes, and Siemens 840D sl CNC control for full programmability and Industry 4.0 connectivity. Integrated chip management, coolant systems, and bar feed interfaces complete the production-ready package.
For manufacturers producing tens of millions of precision parts annually in automotive fuel systems, electronics connectors, hydraulic controls, and precision hardware, the SC12 is the production platform that enables cost-per-part economics unavailable from any other machining technology. Its application is justified when annual volumes and part complexity together demand the absolute maximum sustainable throughput rate.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number Of Spindles | 12 |
| Max Bar Capacity | 22 mm (0.866 in) |
| Max Turning Diameter | 30 mm (1.18 in) |
| Max Machining Length | 60 mm (2.36 in) per spindle position |
| Spindle Speed | Up to 10,000 RPM per spindle |
| Live Tool Speed | 8,000 RPM |
| Number Of Axes | Up to 2 NC axes per spindle position |
| Total Tool Positions | Up to 48 tools across all positions |
| CNC Control | Siemens 840D sl |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 30 m/min |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 18,000 kg (39,683 lb) |
| Power Consumption | 75 kVA |
Specifications sourced from schutteusa.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
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Limitations
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Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New Schütte SC12 12-spindle CNC multi-spindle automatics typically range from $700,000 to $1,200,000 depending on tooling configuration, live tooling count, and automation options. This represents one of the highest single-machine investments in precision turned parts production.
02
A 12-spindle machine allows each operation in the cycle to be allocated more than one spindle position, reducing the time any single operation must complete within—effectively reducing the bottleneck cycle time. For complex parts with many operations, 12 positions can deliver meaningfully better throughput than 8 positions. For simpler parts with few operations, 8 spindles may be sufficient without the additional machine cost.
03
The Schütte SC12 handles bar stock up to 22mm (0.866 inches) in diameter. This targets the connector, electronic hardware, and small automotive component segments where 12-spindle throughput delivers the greatest economic advantage.
04
Both the Schütte SC12 and INDEX MS series are premium German CNC multi-spindle automatics with Siemens 840D sl control. The SC12's 12-spindle configuration versus INDEX MS's 6- or 8-spindle designs provides more throughput for complex multi-operation parts. INDEX-Traub offers larger bar capacities (up to 52mm in MS52). The choice depends on part size range and required throughput level.
05
Twelve-spindle machines are deployed almost exclusively in the highest-volume automotive supply chain (fuel systems, braking components, transmission hardware), electronic connector manufacturing, and hydraulic precision component production. The economics justify the investment only for sustained annual volumes in the tens of millions of parts.
Videos
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Patrick Schutte
SPREEKICK.TV
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