SW BF 12-21D
Key Specifications
Spindle Taper
Spindle Power
number of spindles
spindle distance
spindle speed range
spindle torque
How much does the SW BF 12-21D cost?
Price estimate
We do not have a price for the SW BF 12-21D that we can stand behind, so we show no number. Configuration, options and installation move the final price a long way: a quote is the reliable figure.
Overview
The SW BF 12-21D is a two-spindle machining center built on what SW calls a new machine platform, designed for die-cast and structural components. Its layout differs from the BA machines. There are two independent three-axis units, each with one spindle and a working area of its own. SW gives X travel as 2 x 1,200 mm, with 650 mm (25.6 in) of Y and 650 mm (25.6 in) of Z.
The drives are a hybrid. SW states that the X and Z axes have linear drives while the Y axis uses a ball screw, and it presents this as a response to market conditions. The fast, frequently reversing axes get the linear motors.
Because the two units are independent, the spindle distance is not a fixed pitch. SW lists it as 600 – 3,000 mm. The spindles can work far apart on two parts or close together on one. SW describes both modes: the machine can replace two conventional single-spindle machines, and with automated component change two spindles can be used in one working area to bridge the loading time.
Two spindles are offered: HSK-A63 with a 1-17,500 rpm range, 32 kW and 72 Nm, or HSK-E50 with a 1-40,000 rpm range, 18 kW and 11.5 Nm.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of Spindles | 2 |
| Spindle Distance | 600 – 3,000 mm (23.6 – 118.1 in) |
| Spindle Speed Range | 1-17,500 min-1 (HSK-A63); 1-40,000 min-1 (HSK-E50) |
| Spindle Motor Power | 32 kW (42.9 hp) per spindle (HSK-A63); 18 kW (24.1 hp) per spindle (HSK-E50) |
| Spindle Torque | 72 Nm (53.1 lb-ft) per spindle (HSK-A63); 11.5 Nm (8.5 lb-ft) per spindle (HSK-E50) |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 or HSK-E50 |
| X Axis Travel | 2 x 1,200 mm (2 x 47.2 in) |
| Y Axis Travel | 650 mm (25.6 in) |
| Z Axis Travel | 650 mm (25.6 in) |
Specifications sourced from sw-machines.com — verified 2026-10-04
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Two independent three-axis units, each with its own spindle and working area
- X travel of 2 x 1,200 mm with 650 mm (25.6 in) of Y and Z
- Spindle distance adjustable over 600 – 3,000 mm
- Hybrid design: linear drives in X and Z, ball screw in Y
- Choice of a 17,500 rpm HSK-A63 spindle or a 40,000 rpm HSK-E50 spindle
Limitations
- No 4th-axis interference circle or rotary axis data in SW's table
- 72 Nm at most per spindle; the HSK-E50 version has 11.5 Nm
- The Y axis uses a ball screw, so it is not a full linear-motor machine
- No rapid traverse, accuracy or magazine figures on the page
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
SW states that the X and Z axes are equipped with a linear drive while the Y axis uses a ball screw. The feature list calls it a combination of linear drive and ball screws.
02
As two working areas. SW gives X as 2 x 1,200 mm (2 x 47.2 in), with 650 mm (25.6 in) of Y and 650 mm (25.6 in) of Z. Each area is served by its own three-axis unit with one spindle, and the spindle distance ranges over 600 – 3,000 mm.
03
HSK-A63 with a speed range of 1-17,500 rpm, 32 kW and 72 Nm per spindle, or HSK-E50 with a speed range of 1-40,000 rpm, 18 kW and 11.5 Nm per spindle.
04
Size. The BF 15-21D has X travel of 2 x 1,550 mm with 750 mm (29.5 in) of Y and Z and a spindle distance of 650 – 3,750 mm. The BF 12-21D has 2 x 1,200 mm, 650 mm (25.6 in) of Y and Z, and 600 – 3,000 mm. The spindle options are the same.
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