Star SV-12
Key Specifications
Rapid Traverse
max bar capacity
max machining diameter
max machining length
main spindle speed
back spindle speed
Overview
The Star SV-12 is a high-performance Swiss-type CNC automatic lathe designed for precision machining of miniature components up to 12mm bar diameter. As part of Star Micronics' SV (Standard Value-plus / High-Performance) series, the SV-12 delivers maximum capability and performance in the small-diameter Swiss market where watch components, miniature medical devices, micro-connectors, and precision electronics parts demand the tightest tolerances and finest surface finishes achievable.
The SV-12 features a high-speed main spindle reaching 15,000 RPM, enabling the extreme surface speeds needed for finishing operations on small-diameter components. The back spindle reaches 12,000 RPM for capable secondary machining without speed limitations. With up to 8 axes including Y-axis capability, the SV-12 provides comprehensive milling and cross-drilling capability that enables complete machining of complex miniature parts in a single cycle. Up to 24 tool positions including live tooling stations ensure adequate tooling density for multi-feature micro-components.
At the 12mm bar size, part precision requirements are extreme. Features are small, tolerances are tight, and surface finish specifications are demanding. The SV-12's high-performance spindles, precision guide bushing, and rigid construction deliver the sub-micron repeatability and mirror-like surface finishes that miniature parts demand. Star's thermal management system maintains dimensional stability during long production runs, ensuring the first part and the ten-thousandth part meet identical specifications.
The SV-12's compact footprint belies its capability. The machine packs serious multi-axis machining performance into a space-efficient package that fits easily into production cells alongside other machines. Star's hydraulic-free design is especially beneficial on the SV-12 where any vibration from hydraulic systems would be amplified at the micro-machining level. The all-electric design provides the smoothest possible operation for maximum surface finish quality.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Bar Capacity | 12 mm (0.47 in) |
| Max Machining Diameter | 12 mm (0.47 in) |
| Max Machining Length | 120 mm (4.72 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 15,000 RPM |
| Back Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM |
| Live Tool Speed | 9,000 RPM |
| Number Of Axes | Up to 8 (including Y-axis and C-axes) |
| Tool Positions | 24 (including live tools) |
| Y Axis Stroke | ±12 mm |
| Guide Bushing | Yes (standard) |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 31i-B5 |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 32 m/min |
| Machine Weight | 1,600 kg (3,527 lb) |
| Power Consumption | 8 kVA |
Specifications sourced from starcnc.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
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Limitations
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Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
A new Star SV-12 typically costs between $180,000 and $300,000 depending on axis count and configuration. The high-performance SV-series commands a premium over the basic SB-series, justified by the superior spindle speeds, precision, and multi-axis capability. Used SV-12 machines sell for $60,000-$150,000.
02
At small diameters, maintaining optimal surface speed requires high RPM. For example, machining a 3mm diameter feature at 200 m/min surface speed requires 21,000 RPM. The 15,000 RPM spindle gets closer to optimal cutting conditions on small features, delivering better surface finishes and longer tool life than lower-speed alternatives.
03
Both are premium small-diameter Swiss lathes. The SV-12 offers higher spindle speed (15,000 vs 10,000-12,000 RPM), hydraulic-free design, and Star's MCS. The Citizen L12 offers LFV chip-breaking technology and Citizen's established support network. For micro-machining where surface speed is critical, the SV-12's higher RPM is a significant advantage.
04
The SV-12 routinely achieves Ra 0.2 or better on precision turned surfaces, with Ra 0.1 achievable under optimal conditions with diamond tooling. The high spindle speed, vibration-free hydraulic-free design, and precision guide bushing combine to deliver surface finishes that satisfy the most demanding medical and optical specifications.
05
Yes. The SV-12's high spindle speed and rigid construction handle titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, and other difficult materials effectively at the 12mm scale. The smaller bar diameter means lighter cuts than larger Swiss lathes, which partially offsets the machining difficulty. Star's guide bushing eliminates deflection for consistent results.
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