Star SH-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 SH-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 SH-51 is a Swiss-type lathe for bar up to 51 mm (2.008 in), with a guide bushing and 320 mm (12.60 in) of machining length. The listed figures put the main spindle and the live tools at 7,000 RPM and the back spindle at 6,000 RPM, on up to 9 axes including Y1, C1 and C2. Confirm each figure with the seller before relying on it.
Size is what sets this machine apart. Guide-bushing lathes are mostly built for small bar, and a 51 mm capacity with 320 mm (12.60 in) of length reaches into work that would otherwise go to a fixed-headstock lathe with a tailstock or steady rest. That capacity brings bulk: 4,200 kg (9,259 lb) of machine and a 22 kVA supply requirement.
There are 28 tool positions, including live tools, and a Y-axis stroke of ±15 mm. On a 51 mm bar that stroke reaches features near the centreline only. Rapid traverse is 22 m/min and the control is a Fanuc 31i-B5. The ECAS-51 is listed lighter and slower, at 3,600 kg (7,937 lb), 20 m/min and 5,000 RPM for live tools, with a Fanuc 0i-TF control.
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 | 7,000 RPM |
| Back Spindle Speed | 6,000 RPM |
| Live Tool Speed | 7,000 RPM |
| Number of Axes | Up to 9 (including Y1, C1, C2) |
| Tool Positions | 28 (including live tools) |
| Y Axis Stroke | ±15 mm |
| Guide Bushing | Yes |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 31i-B5 |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 22 m/min |
| Machine Weight | 4,200 kg (9,259 lb) |
| Power Consumption | 22 kVA |
| Spindle Bore | 56 mm |
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 through a guide bushing, with 320 mm (12.60 in) of machining length
- 28 tool positions, including live tools listed at 7,000 RPM
- Up to 9 axes, including Y1 and a C axis on each spindle (C1, C2)
- Live tools at 7,000 RPM and 22 m/min rapids, against 5,000 RPM and 20 m/min on the ECAS-51
Limitations
- Y-axis stroke is ±15 mm, small against a 51 mm bar
- The back spindle is listed at 6,000 RPM, below the 7,000 RPM main spindle
- Needs a 22 kVA supply and a floor that takes 4,200 kg (9,259 lb)
- Rapid traverse of 22 m/min is well short of the 36 m/min listed for the NEW SD-26 Type S
- No spindle power figure is listed for either spindle
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The listed figures give a maximum bar capacity and machining diameter of 51 mm (2.008 in) and a maximum machining length of 320 mm (12.60 in), with a guide bushing. Check which collets and bushings come with the machine, since those decide what it can run without further spending.
02
Up to 9 axes, including Y1, C1 and C2, and 28 tool positions including live tools. The Y-axis stroke is ±15 mm. The wording is "up to", so the axis count depends on how a particular machine was specified. Ask for the axis list of the machine on offer.
03
The main spindle is listed at 7,000 RPM, the back spindle at 6,000 RPM and the live tools at 7,000 RPM. No motor power is given for any of them, so cutting capacity on 51 mm stock has to be confirmed from the machine's own manual or rating plates.
04
A 22 kVA electrical supply and a floor that carries 4,200 kg (9,259 lb). No footprint is listed, and a bar feeder for 51 mm stock adds considerable length, so get a layout drawing before committing floor space.
