Tsugami B0126-VR
Key Specifications
bar capacity
main spindle speed
sub spindle speed
axes
spindle motor
tool positions
Overview
The Tsugami B0126-VR is a 6-axis Swiss-type CNC automatic lathe with 12 mm (0.5 in) bar capacity, delivering the full capability of Tsugami's VR generation in the 12 mm class. The 6th axis adds Y2 on the sub spindle, enabling off-centerline milling, hexing, and slotting on back-worked features — a capability that the 5-axis B0125-VR simply can't match.
With 25 tool positions and 8 live tool positions (double the 4 on the B0125-VR), the B0126-VR handles seriously complex multi-operation parts. Both spindles run at 12,000 RPM, with the main spindle powered by a 1.5/2.2 kW motor. Live tools reach 8,000 RPM. The FANUC 32i-B control (upgraded from the 0i-TF on the 5-axis version) provides the processing power needed for 6-axis simultaneous interpolation and complex tool path execution.
The convertible guide bushing gives you 210 mm (8.26 in) headstock stroke in Swiss mode and 45 mm (1.77 in) in chucker mode. Rapid traverse hits 32 m/min. The VR generation's ceramic ball bearings and proprietary chuck mechanism round out the package.
Interestingly, the B0126-VR weighs only 1,750 kg (3,858 lb) — actually lighter than the 2,000 kg B0125-VR despite having more capability. This is likely due to design optimization in the 6-axis variant. The machine occupies a 1,655 x 1,125 x 1,700 mm (65 x 44 x 67 in) footprint. For medical device manufacturers, watch makers, and aerospace subcontractors who need maximum milling capability on both sides of a 12 mm Swiss part, the B0126-VR is the top of Tsugami's opposed gang tool lineup in this size class.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bar Capacity | 12 mm (0.5 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM |
| Sub Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM |
| Axes | 6 |
| Spindle Motor | 1.5/2.2 kW |
| Tool Positions | 25 |
| Live Tool Positions | 8 |
| Live Tool Speed | 8,000 RPM |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 32 m/min |
| Headstock Stroke With Guide Bushing | 210 mm (8.26 in) |
| Headstock Stroke Without Guide Bushing | 45 mm (1.77 in) |
| Guide Bushing | Yes (convertible) |
| CNC Control | FANUC 32i-B |
| Dimensions | 1,655 x 1,125 x 1,700 mm (65 x 44 x 67 in) |
| Machine Weight | 1,750 kg (3,858 lb) |
Specifications sourced from tsugami.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Y2 axis on sub spindle enables off-centerline milling, hexing, and slotting on back-worked features
- 25 tool positions with 8 live tools provides exceptional capacity for complex multi-operation parts
- FANUC 32i-B control handles 6-axis simultaneous interpolation for sophisticated tool paths
- Ceramic ball bearings and proprietary chuck mechanism deliver VR-generation precision and stability
- Convertible guide bushing handles both long Swiss parts and short chucker parts on one machine
- Lighter weight (1,750 kg) than the 5-axis B0125-VR despite added capability
Limitations
- Premium pricing at $250K+ makes this a significant investment for a 12 mm machine
- 6-axis complexity requires more skilled programmers and setup personnel than simpler 3 or 5-axis variants
- 12 mm bar capacity limits part size — 20 mm work requires the B0206-VR
- The added Y2 axis capability isn't needed for every part — simpler jobs run just as well on a B0125-VR at lower cost
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Only if your parts genuinely need Y-axis milling on the back side. The B0126-VR costs roughly $50K-$60K more, adds the Y2 axis, doubles live tool positions to 8, and upgrades the control to FANUC 32i-B. For medical bone screws with hex drives, aerospace fittings with back-side flats, or any part requiring off-centerline back-side features, the B0126-VR eliminates a secondary operation that would otherwise require a separate machine.
02
The B0126-VR weighs 1,750 kg versus 2,000 kg on the B0125-VR. This appears to be a result of design optimization in the 6-axis variant — Tsugami likely redesigned the casting and slide configuration for the 6-axis model rather than simply bolting Y2 capability onto the 5-axis platform. The lighter weight doesn't indicate less rigidity; it's a more refined design.
03
The FANUC 32i-B provides faster block processing for complex tool paths, more memory for larger programs, and the processing power for 6-axis simultaneous interpolation. It also supports FANUC's AI Servo tuning for smoother motion on contoured features. For straight Swiss turning, the 0i-TF is perfectly adequate — the 32i-B becomes important when you're doing extensive milling, contouring, or thread whirling on the sub spindle side.
04
Both are top-tier 12 mm 6-axis Swiss machines. The Star SR-20J Type C uses Star's unique slide-based architecture for very high-speed production. The Tsugami B0126-VR uses opposed gang tool posts with ceramic bearings. Star tends to excel on raw cycle time for simpler parts. Tsugami's convertible guide bushing adds flexibility. Both are excellent — the choice depends on whether speed or flexibility is your priority.
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