Schutte SC 20 CNC
Key Specifications
Number of Spindles
Max Bar Diameter
Max Spindle Speed
Spindle Motor Power
Bar Feed Capacity
Cross Slides
Overview
The Schutte SC 20 CNC is a high-performance CNC multi-spindle automatic designed for high-volume precision turning of small-diameter bar stock up to 20 mm. Engineered by Schutte — a German manufacturer with over a century of multi-spindle expertise — the SC 20 delivers the cycle time efficiency of a cam-driven multi-spindle while offering the flexibility and reprogrammability of full CNC control on every spindle and slide position.
The SC 20 features six independently programmable spindles arranged on a rotating spindle drum, with each spindle position receiving its own CNC axes for longitudinal and cross-slide motions. This architecture enables simultaneous machining across all six stations, achieving cycle times in the range of 2–5 seconds for typical turned components. The machine accepts bar stock via an automatic bar feeder and supports synchronous part transfer, eliminating idle time between cycles.
Schutte's SC 20 supports a wide range of tooling configurations including turning tools, drilling units, thread-cutting attachments, and polygon turning units. Live tooling options on cross-slide positions enable milling, cross-drilling, and off-center operations — extending the machine's capability beyond pure turning into complete machining in a single setup. The Siemens CNC control provides an intuitive programming environment with multi-spindle synchronization management handled transparently by the controller.
The SC 20 CNC is a standard choice for high-volume production of automotive fasteners, fuel system components, hydraulic fittings, and precision turned parts in stainless steel, brass, aluminum, and free-machining steels. Its combination of high output, CNC flexibility, and compact floor footprint makes it one of the more versatile small-diameter multi-spindle platforms available.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number Of Spindles | 6 |
| Max Bar Diameter | 20 mm |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | 14 kW (main drive) |
| Bar Feed Capacity | 3,000 mm bar length (with automatic bar feeder) |
| Cross Slides | 6 (one per spindle position, with optional live tooling) |
| Control System | Siemens SINUMERIK (multi-spindle variant) |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 10,000 kg |
| Bysheetal Verma | March 15, 2023 |
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Six-spindle CNC architecture enables complex parts in a single high-speed cycle
- Fully CNC-programmable slides allow rapid changeover between part families
- Live tooling options support milling, cross-drilling, and off-center operations
- Proven Schutte engineering with a long service life and strong spare parts availability
Limitations
- High acquisition cost and long lead times are typical for CNC multi-spindle automatics
- Setup and programming complexity requires experienced multi-spindle machinists or engineers
- Optimal for high-volume runs — low-volume production does not justify the setup investment
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The SC 20 CNC accepts bar stock up to 20 mm in diameter, making it suited for small-diameter precision turned parts. For larger diameters up to 32 mm or 52 mm, Schutte offers the SC 32 and SC 52 models in the same CNC multi-spindle family.
02
A cam-driven multi-spindle uses mechanically profiled cams to control tool movements, requiring physical cam replacement and timing adjustments for every new part. A CNC multi-spindle like the SC 20 replaces cams with servo-driven axes and CNC program code, enabling changeover by loading a new program rather than rebuilding the camstack — dramatically reducing setup time for new parts.
03
Yes, live tooling units on the cross-slide positions of the SC 20 CNC enable milling, cross-drilling, and polygon turning operations at the appropriate spindle stations. This allows flat surfaces, cross-holes, and hexagonal profiles to be machined within the multi-spindle cycle without a secondary operation.
Videos
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