Star SB-16E

Est. $70,000 - $130,000 Specs verified 2026-10-03 · starcnc.com Updated 2026-10-03

Image: starcnc.com, Star Micronics

Key Specifications

max bar capacity

16 mm (0.63 in)

max machining diameter

16 mm (0.63 in)

max turning diameter

Ø16mm (5/8in)

rapid traverse x

35m/min

rapid traverse y

35m/min

rapid traverse z

35m/min

How much does the Star SB-16E cost?

Estimated price range

Est.$70,000 - $130,000

Our best estimate for a swiss-type lathe in this class — not a quote from Star Micronics. Configuration moves it a long way.

Overview

Only two things are stated in Star's table for the SB-16E: it takes bar up to 16 mm (0.63 in), and it rapids at 35m/min on each of X, Y and Z. That makes it a 16 mm Swiss-type lathe with a Y axis, and little more can be said from the published figures.

A Y rapid rate confirms a Y axis, which is what lets tools be positioned off the spindle centreline for cross drilling and milling. An equal rate on all three axes means no single axis holds back a positioning move.

Among the 16 mm SB machines, the SB-16D is listed with the same Ø16mm (5/8in) diameter and the same rapids, and the SB-16R Type G with 35 m/min on X1, Y1, Z1, X2 and Z2 and a weight of 1,700 kg. For the SB-16E itself, spindle speed, power, tool count, stroke and weight need to come from Star.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Bar Capacity	16 mm (0.63 in)
Max Machining Diameter	16 mm (0.63 in)
Max Turning Diameter	Ø16mm (5/8in)
Rapid Traverse X	35m/min
Rapid Traverse Y	35m/min
Rapid Traverse Z	35m/min

Specifications sourced from starcnc.com — verified 2026-10-03

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Rapid traverse of 35m/min on each of X, Y and Z
Takes bar up to 16 mm (0.63 in), with a Y axis for positioning tools off centre

Limitations

Star's table lists no spindle speed, power, tool count, stroke or weight for this model
Bar capacity is 16 mm (0.63 in); the SB-20RII takes ø20mm (25/32in)

Best For

Small turned parts from bar up to 16 mm (0.63 in) Parts with features off the centreline, reached with the Y axis High-volume small parts where positioning time counts

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What bar diameter does the SB-16E take?

The maximum bar capacity and maximum machining diameter are 16 mm (0.63 in), which Star's table also gives as Ø16mm (5/8in). No larger option is listed for this model.

02 What is the difference between the SB-16E and the SB-16D?

On the published figures the two cannot be told apart by size or speed: the SB-16D has the same Ø16mm (5/8in) diameter and the same 35m/min on X, Y and Z. Star's table for the SB-16E has no tool count, so ask Star how the tooling of the two models differs before choosing between them.