Star Micronics SR-32JIII Type A/B

$200,000 - $320,000 Updated 2026-03-14

Key Specifications

max machining diameter

32 mm (1-1/4 in), optional 34 mm (1-11/32 in)

max headstock stroke standard

320 mm (12-19/32 in)

max headstock stroke rmgb

286.5 mm (11-9/32 in)

max front ejection length

125 mm (4-59/64 in)

max part projection

45 mm (1-49/64 in)

main spindle speed

8,000 RPM

Overview

The Star Micronics SR-32JIII is Star's standard-class 32mm Swiss-type lathe, designed for precision machining of medium-diameter components that exceed the 20mm capacity of the SR-20JII but do not require the 38mm platforms. With a maximum machining diameter of 32mm (optionally 34mm), the SR-32JIII occupies a critical position in any Swiss-type shop's fleet, covering the diameter range where orthopedic implant shafts, hydraulic fittings, automotive drivetrain components, and precision connectors live.

The machine features a substantially more powerful spindle package than its 20mm siblings. The main spindle delivers 7.5 kW continuous power (11 kW peak) at up to 8,000 RPM—more than three times the continuous power of the SR-20JII. The sub spindle provides 3.7 kW continuous (5.5 kW peak) at 8,000 RPM, ensuring back-working operations have adequate power for drilling, threading, and contour turning on larger-diameter parts. The headstock stroke reaches 320mm in standard configuration, accommodating long components up to 12.5 inches.

Tooling capacity is comprehensive: 6 front turning tools with 16mm shanks (larger than the 12mm shanks used on 20mm machines), a 5-spindle sleeve holder with front and rear stations, and either 6 back tools (Type A) or 8 back tools with Y-axis (Type B). C-axis indexing control on both main and sub spindles enables milling, cross-drilling, and polygon machining. The revolving guide bush unit supports long slender parts, and the revolving magic guide bush option allows switching to non-guide bush mode.

Running on the FANUC 32i-B control, the SR-32JIII provides multi-path programming capability for coordinating simultaneous operations. At 4,100 kg and a footprint of 2,690 x 1,345 mm, it is larger than the 20mm models but still compact for a 32mm Swiss lathe. The 275-liter coolant tank supports sustained heavy cutting, and the machine's construction provides the rigidity needed for aggressive machining parameters at 32mm diameters.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Machining Diameter	32 mm (1-1/4 in), optional 34 mm (1-11/32 in)
Max Headstock Stroke Standard	320 mm (12-19/32 in)
Max Headstock Stroke Rmgb	286.5 mm (11-9/32 in)
Max Front Ejection Length	125 mm (4-59/64 in)
Max Part Projection	45 mm (1-49/64 in)
Main Spindle Speed	8,000 RPM
Main Spindle Power	7.5 kW continuous / 11 kW (10 min, 25% ED)
Sub Spindle Speed	8,000 RPM
Sub Spindle Power	3.7 kW continuous / 5.5 kW (10 min, 40% ED)
Front Turning Tools	6 tools (16 mm shank)
Sleeve Holder	5-spindle (front 5 / rear 5 tools)
Back Working Unit	Type A: 6 tools / Type B: 8 tools (Y-axis)
Guide Bushing	Revolving guide bush unit
C Axis	Main and sub spindle (indexing control)
CNC Control	FANUC 32i-B
Coolant Tank	275 L
Machine Weight	4,100 kg (9,039 lb)
Dimensions	2,690 x 1,345 x 1,780 mm

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

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Limitations

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Best For

Orthopedic implant manufacturers producing hip stems, knee tibial trays, spinal fixation rods, and large bone screws in the 20-32mm range Hydraulic and pneumatic component manufacturers producing valve bodies, manifold ports, cylinder pistons, and precision fittings Automotive drivetrain manufacturers producing precision shafts, gear blanks, and bearing races requiring Swiss-type accuracy Aerospace manufacturers producing hydraulic fittings, actuator rods, and structural fasteners up to 32mm diameter Oil and gas component shops producing precision downhole tool components, valve stems, and coupling bodies Contract shops expanding into medium-diameter Swiss work that exceeds 20mm machine capacity

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a Star Micronics SR-32JIII cost?

A new Star SR-32JIII runs $200,000-$320,000 depending on Type A vs Type B, tooling packages, bar feeder, and options. The Type B with Y-axis back-working unit commands the higher end. Used SR-32J series machines trade for $100,000-$180,000 depending on age and condition.

02 What is the difference between Type A and Type B?

Type A has a 6-tool back-working unit for standard secondary operations. Type B upgrades to an 8-tool unit with Y-axis control, enabling off-center drilling, milling, and contouring on the back end of the part. Type B adds $30,000-$50,000 to the machine cost but is essential for parts requiring complex back-end features.

03 How does the SR-32JIII compare to the Citizen L32?

Both are premier 32mm Swiss-type lathes from leading Japanese manufacturers. Star's SR-32JIII is known for robust construction and mechanical precision, while Citizen's L32 offers LFV chip-breaking technology and the Cincom programming environment. Performance is broadly comparable; the choice often depends on regional service, existing shop standardization, and specific tooling preferences.

04 Can the SR-32JIII handle titanium bar stock?

Yes. The 7.5 kW continuous spindle power is well-suited for titanium alloys like Ti-6Al-4V at 32mm diameter. At 8,000 RPM and 32mm diameter, the machine provides approximately 800 SFM (245 m/min), which far exceeds the 60-100 SFM typically used for titanium. Operators run at reduced RPM with appropriate feeds and high-pressure coolant for optimal results.

05 What bar feeder do I need for the SR-32JIII?

The SR-32JIII requires a bar feeder capable of handling 32mm (1.25-inch) bar stock. Common choices include the LNS Sprint 332, IEMCA Boss 332, and FMB Turbo 3-42. A hydrodynamic bar feeder is recommended for best performance. The bar feeder adds approximately 8-10 feet behind the machine to the total installation footprint.