Schutte SC 42 CNC Multi-Spindle Automatic Lathe

$750,000 – $1,100,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Number of Spindles

Max Bar Diameter

42 mm (1.65 in)

Max Spindle Speed

6,300 RPM

Spindle Motor Power

55 kW (74 hp)

Bar Feed Capacity

3,200 mm (126 in) bar length

Cross Slides

6 cross slides + 6 end-working slides

Overview

The Schutte SC 42 CNC is Schutte's flagship large-bar multi-spindle automatic lathe, capable of machining bar stock up to 42 mm in diameter across six CNC-controlled spindle positions. Designed for the heaviest precision turned parts encountered in automotive powertrain, fluid power, and aerospace supply chains, the SC 42 delivers the same cam-free CNC flexibility as Schutte's smaller models but with a larger work envelope, heavier spindle bearings, and a more powerful drive system capable of removing significant material at high feed rates.

The machine's six spindles rotate at up to 6,300 RPM and are powered by a 55 kW synchronous spindle drive. Each position features independently CNC-programmable cross slides and end-working units, enabling complex part geometries — including turned, milled, drilled, tapped, and cross-drilled features — to be completed in a single setup. The drum indexing system is servo-driven and positions to within ±2 arc-seconds, ensuring consistent part quality across millions of cycles.

Schutte equips the SC 42 with the iXcell CNC platform on a Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl base. The user interface includes 3D part simulation with collision detection, and the control supports DXF import for rapid program generation from CAD drawings. The machine can store up to 500 active part programs and connects natively to Schutte's ShopMonitor production monitoring software for OEE tracking and shift reporting.

The SC 42 is built for demanding production environments. Standard features include a 120-bar high-pressure coolant system, heavy-duty chip conveyor with volume sensor, automatic bar change interface, and a swarf management system optimized for steel and stainless-steel swarf. The machine's thermal compensation system monitors spindle and frame temperatures and applies real-time corrections to maintain dimensional accuracy throughout long production runs.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Number Of Spindles	6
Max Bar Diameter	42 mm (1.65 in)
Max Spindle Speed	6,300 RPM
Spindle Motor Power	55 kW (74 hp)
Bar Feed Capacity	3,200 mm (126 in) bar length
Cross Slides	6 cross slides + 6 end-working slides
Control System	Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl (Schutte iXcell)
Machine Weight	Approx. 16,000 kg (35,300 lb)
Condition	used
Country Of Origin	United States
Category	Hammermills
Subcategory	Process engineering equipment
Subcategory 2	Cnc, metalworking & manufacturing
Listing Id	113221092
Manufacturer	Schutte

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

42 mm bar capacity covers a wide range of heavy turned components not achievable on smaller multi-spindles
55 kW spindle drive handles demanding materials including stainless steel, inconel, and titanium alloys
120-bar high-pressure coolant improves tool life and surface finish on difficult-to-machine materials
Thermal compensation system maintains dimensional accuracy throughout extended production shifts

Limitations

Machine price exceeds $750K and requires very high annual volume or high-value parts to achieve acceptable ROI
Larger footprint than competing 42 mm class machines — typically requires a dedicated cell with 8m x 5m minimum floor area
Setup complexity demands highly trained multi-spindle specialists who are increasingly scarce in the labor market

Best For

Automotive powertrain components (camshaft journals, transmission shafts, differential pins) in 25–42 mm bar stock Hydraulic and pneumatic valve bodies, fittings, and manifold blocks requiring simultaneous turning and cross-drilling Aerospace fastener and fitting manufacturers producing large batches of complex rotational parts from alloy bar

Frequently Asked Questions

01 How does the SC 42 CNC compare to the SC 36 CNC for production output?

The SC 42 and SC 36 share the same six-spindle architecture and CNC platform, but the SC 42's larger spindle bore and more powerful drive system allow it to handle parts in the 36–42 mm diameter range that would push the SC 36 beyond its capacity. For parts under 36 mm, the SC 36 typically offers faster cycle times due to its higher maximum spindle speed of 8,000 RPM versus the SC 42's 6,300 RPM.

02 Can the SC 42 CNC perform milling and drilling operations in addition to turning?

Yes. The SC 42 supports driven (live) tool units at cross-slide and end-working positions. This allows cross-drilling, face milling, thread milling, and slot milling to be integrated into the multi-spindle cycle, completing parts that would otherwise require a secondary operation on a machining center.

03 What materials can the Schutte SC 42 CNC machine effectively?

The SC 42 is rated for carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless steel (including 17-4 PH and 316L), aluminum alloys, brass, bronze, and titanium. Its 120-bar high-pressure coolant system is particularly important for stainless steel and titanium applications where heat management and chip breaking are critical to achieving acceptable tool life.