Star Micronics SB-32 Multi-Spindle Automatic

$750,000 – $1,300,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Number of Spindles

Max Bar Diameter

32 mm

Max Spindle Speed

6,500 rpm

Spindle Motor Power

22 kW (total installed)

Bar Feed Capacity

Front-loaded magazine bar feeder compatible

Cross Slides

6 cross slides (one per position) + end-working unit

Overview

The Star Micronics SB-32 is a CNC multi-spindle automatic bar machine for high-volume production of precision rotational components up to 32mm bar diameter. As Star Micronics' largest-capacity multi-spindle offering, the SB-32 addresses the 32mm and larger bar segment where part families include hydraulic fittings, automotive powertrain components, industrial valve bodies, and larger-diameter precision hardware that cannot be produced efficiently on 20mm-class multi-spindles.

The SB-32 operates on a 6-spindle drum configuration with CNC servo-driven cross slides at each position. The cam-less servo architecture eliminates the time-intensive mechanical changeovers of traditional cam-driven multi-spindles, replacing them with CNC program loads and tooling repositioning. Star's FANUC-based control manages full multi-position synchronization and provides production monitoring, tool life management, and alarm notification for extended unattended cycles. The rigid cast iron structure and precision temperature-compensated spindle system maintain dimensional accuracy across high-volume production runs in demanding materials including stainless steel, brass, aluminum, and low-alloy steels.

At 32mm bar capacity, the SB-32 competes in the same segment as the Tornos Sigma 32 multi-spindle and Schutte 32mm CNC multi-spindles. The machine's positioning in the market reflects Star Micronics' strategy of pairing precision Swiss-heritage machining capabilities with the volume throughput of multi-spindle simultaneous cutting. For shops already operating Star Swiss-type automatics, the SB-32 provides a compatible service and tooling ecosystem, simplifying spare parts management and operator training.

The SB-32 is suited for production environments where jobs run for extended periods and per-part cost reduction through simultaneous cutting is the primary economic driver. The machine includes compatibility with standard front-mounted bar feeders and parts conveyors for fully automated production cell integration.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Number Of Spindles	6
Max Bar Diameter	32 mm
Max Spindle Speed	6,500 rpm
Spindle Motor Power	22 kW (total installed)
Bar Feed Capacity	Front-loaded magazine bar feeder compatible
Cross Slides	6 cross slides (one per position) + end-working unit
Control System	FANUC CNC (Star Micronics multi-spindle configuration)
Machine Weight	Approx. 14,500 kg

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

32mm bar capacity covers hydraulic fittings, valve bodies, and automotive powertrain components
FANUC CNC enables familiar programming and broad CAM ecosystem compatibility
CNC servo-driven axes eliminate mechanical cam changeovers for faster job transitions
Star Micronics global service network reduces machine downtime risk in production environments
Compatible with standard bar feeders and parts conveyors for full production cell automation

Limitations

High capital cost demands rigorous volume justification relative to single-spindle Swiss or lathe alternatives
32mm multi-spindle requires significant floor space and reinforced foundations
Multi-spindle FANUC configuration requires specialized programming knowledge beyond standard FANUC turning
Long setup times for initial tooling and first-article qualification on new jobs

Best For

Hydraulic fitting and connector manufacturers producing high volumes of 25–32mm diameter bodies Automotive Tier 1 powertrain suppliers machining valve spools, pump components, and housing blanks at volume Industrial valve body producers running long-run jobs on carbon and stainless steel bar Precision hardware and fastener manufacturers requiring multi-feature machining at maximum throughput

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the key advantage of the SB-32 over a Swiss-type lathe for 32mm parts?

The SB-32 multi-spindle cuts at all 6 spindle positions simultaneously, completing one part per drum revolution regardless of the number of operations. A Swiss-type lathe completes all operations serially on one part at a time. For high-volume production with consistent part geometry, the SB-32 achieves dramatically lower per-part cycle times — often 5–10 times the output rate of a single-spindle machine on equivalent parts.

02 How does the SB-32 compare to the Star SA-20R multi-spindle?

The SB-32 handles bar stock up to 32mm versus the SA-20R's 20mm maximum. The SB-32 targets larger part families including hydraulic fittings and automotive powertrain components, while the SA-20R is optimized for smaller connector bodies, miniature valves, and precision hardware. Both share Star's FANUC CNC architecture and service ecosystem.

03 Can the SB-32 produce parts requiring back-end machining?

Yes. The SB-32 includes an end-working unit at one or more spindle positions that can perform drilling, tapping, boring, and profiling on the part end after front-facing operations are completed in earlier positions. Complex parts requiring fully machined ends can be completed in a single pass through the drum without secondary operations.