Star SW-38
Key Specifications
Rapid Traverse
max bar capacity
max machining diameter
max machining length
main spindle speed
back spindle speed
How much does the Star SW-38 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 SW-38 is listed as a guide-bushing Swiss-type lathe for bar up to 38 mm (1.496 in), with a maximum machining length of 300 mm (11.81 in), an 8,000 RPM main spindle and a 6,000 RPM back spindle. Treat the listed figures as a starting point and confirm them against the documentation of the specific machine before relying on them.
The two spindles are not matched in speed. Work passed to the back spindle runs at up to 6,000 RPM against 8,000 RPM on the main, so back-end turning of small diameters has a lower ceiling than the front. Live tools are listed at 7,000 RPM. The Y-axis stroke is ±12 mm, which is short of the full width of a 38 mm bar, so milled flats and off-center holes near the outside of large stock need checking against the tooling layout.
The table gives up to 8 axes, including Y1, C1 and C2, and 24 tool positions including live tools. Two controls are listed as alternatives, so establish which one a given machine carries before planning programs or training. Rapid traverse is 28 m/min. For installation the listed figures are 3,100 kg (6,835 lb) and 15 kVA. For smaller bar, the SW-20 takes Ø20 mm (25/32 in) at 10,000 rpm and the SW-12RII takes Ø13 mm (33/64 in) at 15,000 rpm.
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 | 7,000 RPM |
| Number of Axes | Up to 8 (including Y1, C1, C2) |
| Tool Positions | 24 (including live tools) |
| Y Axis Stroke | ±12 mm |
| Guide Bushing | Yes |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 31i-B5 or Mitsubishi M830 |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 28 m/min |
| Machine Weight | 3,100 kg (6,835 lb) |
| Power Consumption | 15 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
- Listed bar capacity of 38 mm (1.496 in) with a maximum machining length of 300 mm (11.81 in)
- 8,000 RPM main spindle paired with a 6,000 RPM back spindle, so both ends of a part can be machined in one cycle
- 24 tool positions including live tools, with the live tools listed at 7,000 RPM
- Up to 8 axes including Y1, C1 and C2, which covers off-center milling and angular positioning on both spindles
Limitations
- Y-axis stroke is ±12 mm, short of the full width of a 38 mm (1.496 in) bar
- The back spindle is listed at 6,000 RPM against 8,000 RPM on the main spindle
- The listed table gives no spindle motor power, so cutting capacity at the full 38 mm (1.496 in) diameter cannot be judged from it
- Two alternative controls are listed, so each machine has to be checked for which one it carries
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The listed bar capacity and maximum machining diameter are both 38 mm (1.496 in), and the maximum machining length is 300 mm (11.81 in). The table shows a guide bushing, so long, slender parts are supported close to the cut.
02
The main spindle is listed at 8,000 RPM, the back spindle at 6,000 RPM and the live tools at 7,000 RPM. The table gives no motor power for any of them, so ask for the spindle ratings if the work involves heavy cuts at the full 38 mm (1.496 in) diameter.
03
The listed figures are up to 8 axes, including Y1, C1 and C2, and 24 tool positions including live tools. Y-axis stroke is ±12 mm. The wording "up to" means the axis count depends on how the machine was configured, so check the individual machine.
04
The listed machine weight is 3,100 kg (6,835 lb) and the power consumption is 15 kVA. Rapid traverse is listed at 28 m/min. Confirm the supply voltage and the floor loading requirements with the documentation for the specific machine, since the table does not state them.
05
The control row lists two alternatives rather than one. Which is fitted depends on the individual machine, so confirm it before buying: programs, post-processors and operator training are all specific to the control.
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