Star SB-38

$180,000 - $260,000 Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

7,000min-1

Tool Capacity

Front 5 tools + Rear 5 tools

Rapid Traverse

25 m/min

Spindle Power

7.5kw (continuous) / 11kw (10min./25%ED)

Max Turn Length

150mm (5-7/8in)

max bar capacity

38 mm (1.496 in)

Overview

The Star SB-38 is Star Micronics' 38mm capacity entry in the SB (Swiss Bar) series, designed for high-volume production of larger-diameter precision components that remain within the Swiss-type machining paradigm. The SB series emphasizes reliability, ease of operation, and competitive cycle times at a price point accessible to contract manufacturers and job shops upgrading from cam-type screw machines.

With 38mm bar capacity, the SB-38 opens Swiss-type capability to a broader range of components including larger connectors, hydraulic fittings, medical implants, and structural aerospace fasteners that exceed the capacity of the more common 20-32mm Swiss lathes. The machine retains Star's guide bushing technology for the precision and surface finish that define Swiss-type machining, while the SB platform's mechanical simplicity keeps maintenance demands and tooling costs within reach for smaller operations.

The SB-38 features a Fanuc control, Star's standard live tooling complement, and a C-axis for positional and contour milling operations. While it lacks the Y-axis and extensive second-spindle capability found on the SR series, the SB-38 delivers excellent value for shops whose parts complexity falls within its axis envelope. The machine's sturdy construction handles the higher cutting forces associated with 38mm diameter work, including stainless steel, titanium, and other difficult alloys common in medical and aerospace applications.

For shops running medium-complexity parts in larger diameters—where the volume justifies a Swiss-type approach but the part complexity doesn't demand an SR-class machine—the SB-38 represents a cost-effective solution that combines Star Micronics' manufacturing quality with a practical feature set.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Bar Capacity	38 mm (1.496 in)
Max Machining Diameter	38 mm (1.496 in)
Max Machining Length	300 mm (11.81 in)
Main Spindle Speed	8,000 RPM
Back Spindle Speed	6,000 RPM
Live Tool Speed	6,000 RPM
Number Of Axes	6 (X1, Z1, X2, Z2, C1, C2)
Tool Positions	20 (including live tools)
Guide Bushing	Yes
CNC Control	Fanuc 0i-TF
Rapid Traverse Rate	25 m/min
Machine Weight	4,300kg
Power Consumption	14 kVA
Article	3 weeks ago
Max Turning Diameter	Ø38mm (1-1/2in)
Max Turning Length	150mm (5-7/8in)
Bar Capacity	1-1/2" (1.500) diameter
Max Spindle Speed	7,000min-1
Spindle Motor Power	7.5kw (continuous) / 11kw (10min./25%ED)
Turret Stations	5 tools on the front (stationary type) + 2 tools on the rear (X3 axis control)
Tool Capacity	Front 5 tools + Rear 5 tools
Rapid Traverse X	36m/min
Rapid Traverse Y	36m/min
Rapid Traverse Z	36m/min
Floor Space	2,740 x 1,315 x 2,120mm
Coolant Capacity	253ℓ
Cnc Control	Fanuc 31i-B (Type A) and CNC unit Fanuc 31i-B5 (Type B)
Electrical	16.9 KVA

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

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Limitations

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Best For

Contract manufacturers producing medium-complexity parts in the 25-38mm diameter range Medical device shops making larger implants, instrumentation housings, and surgical tool bodies Aerospace suppliers machining hydraulic fittings, connectors, and structural fasteners in the 30-38mm range Shops transitioning from cam-type screw machines to CNC Swiss-type for 38mm diameter work Oil and gas component manufacturers requiring robust Swiss-type capability for larger valve and fitting components Job shops seeking lower investment than SR-class machines for customers with moderate part complexity

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the difference between the Star SB-38 and the SR-38?

The SR-38 is Star's premium Swiss-type in the 38mm class with more axes (up to 9 vs 6), Y-axis capability, more tool positions, higher live tool speeds, and full multi-path simultaneous machining with MCS. The SB-38 is the value-tier option: simpler axis configuration, fewer tools, but lower price—ideal for medium-complexity parts that don't require the SR-38's expanded capability.

02 What is the price of a new Star SB-38?

A new Star SB-38 typically ranges from approximately $180,000 for a basic configuration to $260,000 with additional tooling packages and options. Used SB-38 machines generally sell in the $70,000–$130,000 range depending on age, hours, and condition.

03 Can the Star SB-38 machine stainless steel and titanium?

Yes. The SB-38's robust construction and adequate spindle torque handle stainless steel (303, 304, 316) and titanium alloys routinely. Feed rates and tooling selection must be optimized for these materials, but the machine is well-suited to the medical and aerospace applications that commonly specify them.

04 Does the SB-38 support non-guide bushing (NGB) operation?

The SB-38 is primarily designed as a guide bushing machine. NGB configuration may be available as an option on certain builds, but the standard machine uses guide bushings. Shops prioritizing NGB flexibility should evaluate the SR series.

05 What industries commonly use the Star SB-38?

Medical device manufacturing (larger implants, instrument bodies), aerospace (hydraulic fittings, structural fasteners), automotive (larger precision components), and oil and gas (valve components, fittings) are the primary markets for the SB-38's 38mm capacity class.