Star Micronics eCA-S20

The Star Micronics eCA-S20 is a non-guide-bush sliding headstock CNC automatic lathe designed for efficient production of components up to 20mm diameter. The eCA-S designation signals a fundamentally different approach from Star's traditional guide-bush machines: the eCA-S20 is purpose-built for non-guide-bush operation from the ground up, rather than being a guide-bush machine with the bushing removed. This distinction matters because the machine's headstock, spindle, and axis configuration are optimized for the non-guide-bush workflow, delivering lower bar waste, simplified setup, and excellent accuracy on parts that do not require guide bush support.

The 10-axis configuration with Star Motion Control System provides advanced simultaneous machining capability. Both spindles run at 10,000 RPM with the main delivering 2.2 kW continuous power (3.7 kW at 30 minutes) via built-in motor drive, and the sub spindle matching at 2.2 kW continuous (3.7 kW at 30 minutes). The 205mm headstock stroke provides generous machining length, and the gripping unit option extends workholding flexibility.

The front tool layout includes 4 turning tools plus power-driven tools, with 2 rear turning tools for additional operations. The compact and efficient tooling arrangement focuses on the operations most common in non-guide-bush work—shorter parts, chucked components, and parts where concentricity is maintained through headstock rigidity rather than guide bush support. C-axis control with 0.01-degree minimum indexing on both spindles enables milling, cross-drilling, and polygon machining.

At 3,500 kg and a footprint of 2,588 x 1,150 mm, the eCA-S20 is notably compact for a 10-axis machine. The 120-liter coolant tank and 8.0 kVA power consumption support production operation. The Star Motion Control System optimizes axis coordination for smoother, faster machining—particularly important in non-guide-bush mode where headstock rigidity must compensate for the absence of the guide bushing support point.