Tsugami BW128-II
Key Specifications
max machinable diameter
axes
main spindle speed
back spindle speed
main spindle motor
tool positions
Overview
The Tsugami BW128-II is an 8-axis Swiss-type CNC automatic lathe from Tsugami's Generation II BW series, machining parts up to 12 mm (0.47 in) diameter. It sits between the 7-axis BW127-II and the 9-axis BW128Z-II, adding one more axis for increased simultaneous machining capability while remaining less complex than the full 9-axis configuration.
The 8-axis layout gives the BW128-II more flexibility than the 7-axis BW127-II for overlapping operations. Both the main and back spindles reach 12,000 RPM, driven by a 2.2/3.7 kW (3/5 hp) motor that delivers solid torque for small-diameter work across the full material spectrum. The machine carries 28 tool positions — 4 more than the 9-axis BW128Z-II — because the different axis configuration allows a different tool layout.
Rapid traverse rates run at 24 m/min on Y1/Y3, 15 m/min on Y2, and 12 m/min on X1/X3/Z3. The Generation II updates include automatic programming software as standard, making the machine more accessible to operators who aren't Swiss-type veterans. The guide bushing system supports both Swiss-mode and guide-bushless operation.
At 2,010 x 1,505 x 1,750 mm and 2,900 kg (6,393 lbs), the BW128-II matches the footprint of every other machine in the BW-II family. For shops that need more than 7 axes but find 9-axis programming overkill for their part mix, the 8-axis BW128-II hits a practical middle ground — enough capability for most complex small parts without the full multi-channel programming overhead of a 9-axis machine.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Machinable Diameter | 3-12 mm (0.12-0.47 in) |
| Axes | 8 axes |
| Main Spindle Speed | 200-12,000 RPM |
| Back Spindle Speed | 200-12,000 RPM |
| Main Spindle Motor | 2.2/3.7 kW (3/5 hp) |
| Tool Positions | 28 |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 24 m/min (Y1, Y3); 15 m/min (Y2); 12 m/min (X1, X3, Z3) |
| Guide Bushing | Yes (selectable) |
| Machine Weight | 2,900 kg (6,393 lbs) |
| Dimensions | 2,010 x 1,505 x 1,750 mm (79.1 x 59.3 x 68.9 in) |
Specifications sourced from tsugami.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 8-axis configuration provides more simultaneous machining capability than 7-axis without full 9-axis complexity
- 28 tool positions give 4 more stations than the 9-axis BW128Z-II for greater tool variety
- 12,000 RPM dual spindles handle a wide range of materials at optimal surface speeds for small parts
- 2.2/3.7 kW motor provides strong torque for stainless steel and titanium turning at 12 mm diameters
- Generation II automatic programming software reduces setup time and lowers the operator skill barrier
- Same compact footprint as all BW-II variants simplifies fleet planning
Limitations
- One fewer axis than the BW128Z-II means slightly less simultaneous machining flexibility
- No live tooling specified in the base configuration — milled features require a different model
- 8-axis programming is still significantly more complex than traditional 2-axis Swiss machines
- 12 mm capacity limits the machine to small-diameter work only
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The extra axis on the BW128-II adds another degree of freedom for simultaneous operations. In practice, this means you can overlap more machining paths to reduce cycle times. The BW127-II can run 2-path simultaneous effectively, while the BW128-II extends that capability. For simple parts, the difference is minimal; for complex parts with many operations, the extra axis can save meaningful cycle time.
02
The BW128-II carries 28 tool positions vs 24 on the BW128Z-II. The difference comes from the tool post layout — without the Z-axis travel mechanism on the rear post, there's room for additional tool stations. If you need maximum tool variety without Z-axis rear post movement, the BW128-II gives you more positions.
03
Yes, particularly for shops where most parts need more than basic 2-path simultaneous machining but don't require the full 3-path Z-axis rear post capability of the BW128Z-II. The BW128-II costs less than the 9-axis variant and is simpler to program, while still outperforming the 7-axis BW127-II on complex parts.
04
Generation II additions include automatic programming software as standard, rear tool post with 5 mm Z-axis center alignment capability, and overall platform refinements. These improvements reduce setup time and make multi-axis programming more accessible compared to the Generation I machines.
