Star Micronics SB-16R Type G

$85,000 - $140,000 Updated 2026-03-14

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

max. 10,000min-1

Spindle Power

2.2kw(Continuous) / 3.7kw(10min./25%ED)

Max Turn Length

80mm (3-5/32in)

max machining diameter

16 mm (5/8 in)

max headstock stroke guide bush

205 mm (8 in)

max headstock stroke non guide bush

Bar diameter x 2.5 (max 50 mm)

Overview

The Star Micronics SB-16R Type G is a sliding headstock CNC automatic lathe built for precision machining of components up to 16mm diameter. Positioned as the mid-range model in Star's SB (basic sliding headstock) family, it bridges the gap between the smaller SB-12R and the larger SB-20R, offering a sweet spot for shops producing parts in the 10-16mm range that represent the bulk of Swiss-type turning work across medical, automotive, and electronics industries.

Powered by a 10,000 RPM main spindle with 2.2 kW continuous output (3.7 kW peak), the SB-16R Type G delivers reliable cutting performance on materials from brass and aluminum through stainless steel and titanium. The sub spindle reaches 9,000 RPM with 0.55 kW continuous power for back-working operations. Tool capacity includes 6 turning tools with 12mm shanks (or 7 tools with 10mm shanks), a back 4-spindle unit, and power-driven attachment options in both 4-spindle (ER 16, 6,000 RPM) and 5-spindle (ER 11, 10,000 RPM) configurations.

Like its SB-series siblings, the SB-16R Type G features Star's switchable guide bushing system. This allows operators to engage the guide bush for long, slender parts requiring maximum rigidity and concentricity, or switch to non-guide-bush mode for shorter parts where reducing bar remnant waste and simplifying setup takes priority. The non-guide-bush mode accepts bar diameters up to 2.5 times the bar diameter with a maximum of 50mm machining length.

The machine runs on a Fanuc 0i-TD control with an 8.4-inch color LCD display, providing a familiar and reliable programming environment. At 1,750 kg and dimensions of 2,070 x 1,177 x 1,760 mm, the SB-16R Type G shares the same compact footprint as the SB-12R, making it easy to fit into existing shop layouts. Rapid traverse at 35 m/min on all primary axes and a 180-liter coolant tank support production-oriented operation for high-volume manufacturing environments.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Machining Diameter	16 mm (5/8 in)
Max Headstock Stroke Guide Bush	205 mm (8 in)
Max Headstock Stroke Non Guide Bush	Bar diameter x 2.5 (max 50 mm)
Main Spindle Speed	10,000 RPM
Main Spindle Power	2.2 kW continuous / 3.7 kW (10 min, 25% ED)
Sub Spindle Speed	9,000 RPM
Sub Spindle Power	0.55 kW continuous / 1.1 kW (15 min, 40% ED)
Turning Tools	6 tools (12 mm) or 7 tools (10 mm)
Back Unit	4-spindle (4 tools)
Power Driven 4 Spindle	ER 16, max 6,000 RPM, 1.0 kW continuous
Power Driven 5 Spindle	ER 11, max 10,000 RPM, 1.0 kW continuous
Rapid Feed Rate	35 m/min (X1, Y1, Z1, X2, Z2)
Guide Bushing	Switchable (guide bush / non-guide bush)
CNC Control	Fanuc 0i-TD (8.4" color LCD)
Coolant Tank	180 L
Machine Weight	1,750kg
Dimensions	2,070 x 1,177 x 1,760 mm
Max Turning Diameter	ø16mm (5/8in)
Max Turning Length	80mm (3-5/32in)
Bar Capacity	ø16mm (5/8in)
Turret Stations	6 tools (ø12mm) / 7 tools (ø10mm)
Max Spindle Speed	max. 10,000min-1
Spindle Motor Power	2.2kw(Continuous) / 3.7kw(10min./25%ED)
Rapid Traverse X	35m/min
Rapid Traverse Y	35m/min
Rapid Traverse Z	35m/min
Coolant Capacity	180ℓ
Cnc Control	Fanuc 0i-TD
Floor Space	2,070 × 1,177 × 1,760mm
Electrical	3.7KVA

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

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Limitations

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Best For

Medical device shops producing bone screws, spinal implants, dental components, and surgical instruments in the 10-16mm diameter range Automotive manufacturers producing precision sensor housings, fuel system components, and brake system fittings at high volumes Electronics and connector manufacturers needing reliable Swiss-type production for pins, contacts, and miniature housings Contract machining shops seeking a versatile mid-range Swiss lathe that balances capability with cost Shops transitioning from fixed-headstock lathes to Swiss-type turning and wanting a proven, user-friendly platform Hydraulic and pneumatic component manufacturers producing small valve bodies, fittings, and precision shafts

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a Star Micronics SB-16R Type G cost?

A new Star SB-16R Type G typically costs $85,000-$140,000 depending on tooling configuration, bar feeder selection, and regional pricing. The SB-16R represents Star's value-oriented Swiss lathe line. Used machines in good condition trade for $45,000-$80,000 depending on age, hours, and tooling included.

02 What is the difference between the SB-16R Type G and the SB-20R Type G?

Both share the same basic platform and footprint. The SB-16R handles bar stock up to 16mm while the SB-20R accepts up to 20mm. The SB-20R may have slightly different spindle speed options to match the larger diameter range. Choose the SB-16R if your parts consistently fall under 16mm—you'll benefit from higher spindle speeds at smaller diameters without paying for unused bar capacity.

03 How does the SB-16R compare to the SR-20JII?

The SR-20JII is a significantly more capable machine with a Fanuc 32i-B control, more axes, more tool positions, and higher sub-spindle power. It also costs considerably more. The SB-16R Type G is the right choice for shops that need reliable Swiss-type production of moderately complex parts without the investment required for the SR series.

04 Can I machine stainless steel on the SB-16R?

Absolutely. The SB-16R handles 303, 304, and 316 stainless steel routinely. At 16mm diameter, the 10,000 RPM spindle provides about 1,650 SFM (500 m/min), which is more than adequate for most stainless steel cutting operations. The guide bush mode provides the rigidity needed for clean finishes on longer stainless parts.

05 What bar feeder works with the SB-16R?

The SB-16R is compatible with most standard Swiss-type bar feeders from manufacturers like LNS, IEMCA, FMB, and Edge Technologies. A hydrodynamic bar feeder (like the LNS Sprint S3) is recommended for best performance at higher spindle speeds. Star can typically recommend and integrate the bar feeder at time of purchase.

06 Is the SB-16R suitable for medical device manufacturing?

Yes. The SB-16R Type G is widely used in medical device manufacturing for parts like bone screws, dental implant abutments, and surgical instrument shafts. The switchable guide bush system, high spindle speeds, and Star's proven precision make it well-suited for the tight tolerances and surface finish requirements of medical components.