Star SB-51
Key Specifications
Rapid Traverse
max bar capacity
max machining diameter
max machining length
main spindle speed
back spindle speed
How much does the Star SB-51 cost?
Estimated price range
Our best estimate for a swiss-type lathe in this class — not a quote from Star Micronics. Configuration moves it a long way.
Overview
The Star SB-51 is listed as the large-bar member of the SB line: a guide-bushing Swiss-type lathe taking 51 mm (2.008 in) stock, with 320 mm (12.60 in) of machining length and 18 tool positions including live tools. These are listed figures that have not been checked against a Star page, so confirm them before quoting on them.
Scale sets it apart from the other SB machines. The SB-20RII is listed for ø20mm (25/32in) bar at approximately 2,000kg; the SB-51 weighs 3,800 kg (8,380 lb) and draws 18 kVA. Speeds drop accordingly. The main spindle is listed at 6,000 RPM, and both the back spindle and the live tools at 5,000 RPM, which is appropriate for large diameters but leaves small drills and end mills short of surface speed.
The axis list is X1, Z1, X2, Z2, C1 and C2, six in all. Both spindles can index or contour on their C axes, so flats, cross holes and slots on the centreline are covered. There is no Y axis in that list. Features away from the centreline would have to be reached by C-axis interpolation or left to another machine.
Rapid traverse is 20 m/min, against 35m/min on the small SB models such as the SB-16D. On bar this size the non-cutting moves are a small share of the cycle, so the slower rate costs less than it would on small parts. The control is a Fanuc 0i-TF.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Bar Capacity | 51 mm (2.008 in) |
| Max Machining Diameter | 51 mm (2.008 in) |
| Max Machining Length | 320 mm (12.60 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 6,000 RPM |
| Back Spindle Speed | 5,000 RPM |
| Live Tool Speed | 5,000 RPM |
| Number of Axes | 6 (X1, Z1, X2, Z2, C1, C2) |
| Tool Positions | 18 (including live tools) |
| Guide Bushing | Yes |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 0i-TF |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 20 m/min |
| Machine Weight | 3,800 kg (8,380 lb) |
| Power Consumption | 18 kVA |
Specifications compiled from manufacturer literature and industry references. Not independently verified against a published spec sheet — confirm with the manufacturer or an authorised dealer before making a purchasing decision.
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 51 mm (2.008 in) bar capacity with a guide bushing
- 320 mm (12.60 in) maximum machining length
- 18 tool positions, including live tools that run at 5,000 RPM
- C axes on both spindles (C1 and C2) for indexed and contoured work
Limitations
- No Y axis among the six listed axes (X1, Z1, X2, Z2, C1, C2)
- Main spindle is limited to 6,000 RPM and live tools to 5,000 RPM
- Rapid traverse is 20 m/min
- Needs 18 kVA and a floor for 3,800 kg (8,380 lb)
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Maximum bar capacity and maximum machining diameter are both listed at 51 mm (2.008 in). Maximum machining length is 320 mm (12.60 in). The machine is listed with a guide bushing; the table mentions no guide-bushless mode.
02
The six listed axes are X1, Z1, X2, Z2, C1 and C2, with no Y axis. Live tools run to 5,000 RPM and both spindles have a C axis, so centreline cross holes, flats and slots are within reach. A feature offset from the centreline has to be generated by moving C and X together, which is slower and less direct than a Y-axis move.
03
The table lists 18 tool positions, a figure that includes the live tools. It does not split the 18 between turning, end-working and live positions, so ask for the tooling layout if a part needs a particular number of driven tools.
04
Power consumption is listed at 18 kVA and machine weight at 3,800 kg (8,380 lb). Both are listed figures. Check them against the nameplate before the supply and foundation are prepared, and allow separately for a bar feeder sized for 51 mm (2.008 in) stock.
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