Tsugami BW389Z
Key Specifications
bar capacity
axes
main spindle speed
sub spindle speed
main spindle motor
guide bushing
Overview
The Tsugami BW389Z is a 9-axis Swiss-type CNC automatic lathe designed for complex turned parts from 38 mm bar stock. It's the larger sibling of the BW329Z, sharing the same independent opposed gang tool post architecture with a back tool post Y-axis but stepping up to handle bigger-diameter work. This machine targets shops that need serious simultaneous 3-path machining capability on medium-to-large Swiss-type parts.
The BW389Z features the same 9-axis layout (X1, Y1, Z1, X2, Y2, Z2, X3, Y3, Z3) and independent opposed tool posts that made the BW329Z successful. The main and sub spindles run at 200-8,000 RPM with an estimated 3.7/5.5 kW motor, providing adequate torque for steel and stainless at this bar diameter. Note that Tsugami doesn't publish separate detailed specs for the BW389Z — it shares a product page with the BW329Z, and many specifications are expected to be similar with adjustments for the larger bar capacity.
The convertible guide bushing system is a key feature. You can run in Swiss mode for long, slender parts where the guide bushing supports the bar near the cutting zone, or switch to guide-bushless operation for shorter parts to save on material waste. The independent opposed tool posts reduce non-cutting time by eliminating shared turret indexing — each post operates autonomously.
The machine runs on a FANUC 31i-B control (estimated), which provides the multi-channel processing power needed for 9-axis simultaneous operations. Thermal displacement compensation keeps tolerances stable during extended runs. Internal tool tip coolant is available as an option for improved chip control on difficult materials like stainless steel and titanium alloys at this larger bar size.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bar Capacity | 38 mm (1.50 in) |
| Axes | 9 axes (X1, Y1, Z1, X2, Y2, Z2, X3, Y3, Z3) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 200-8,000 RPM (estimated) |
| Sub Spindle Speed | 200-8,000 RPM (estimated) |
| Main Spindle Motor | 3.7/5.5 kW (estimated) |
| Guide Bushing | Yes (convertible to guide-bushless) |
| CNC Control | FANUC 31i-B (estimated) |
Specifications sourced from tsugami.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 38 mm bar capacity is among the largest available in 9-axis Swiss-type machines, extending the range of parts you can produce
- 9-axis 3-path simultaneous control enables main spindle, sub spindle, and back tool post operations running concurrently
- Independent opposed tool posts minimize idle time by eliminating shared turret indexing between tool changes
- Convertible guide bushing system provides flexibility for both long Swiss-mode parts and short chucker-mode parts
- Shares proven architecture with the well-established BW329Z, reducing risk for shops familiar with the platform
- FANUC 31i-B control handles complex multi-channel programming for 9-axis simultaneous interpolation
Limitations
- Many specs are estimated from the BW329Z since Tsugami doesn't publish separate detailed specifications for this model
- 38 mm bar stock is more expensive per foot, and guide bushing remnants add to material waste on long parts
- 9-axis programming requires advanced CAM software and experienced operators comfortable with multi-channel setups
- 8,000 RPM spindle speed is conservative for aluminum and brass work where higher speeds would improve finish and throughput
- Larger footprint and weight than the BW329Z demands more floor space and potentially heavier foundation requirements
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The primary difference is bar capacity: 38 mm vs 32 mm. Both share the same 9-axis independent opposed tool post architecture, but the BW389Z accommodates larger-diameter work. The spindle, rapid traverse, and tooling specs are expected to be similar. Choose the BW389Z if your part mix regularly requires bar stock above 32 mm diameter.
02
Tsugami publishes the BW329Z and BW389Z on the same product page, and detailed specifications are listed primarily for the BW329Z. The BW389Z's spindle speeds, motor power, and control system are estimated based on the BW329Z specs and typical Tsugami conventions for larger-capacity variants. Contact your Tsugami distributor for confirmed specifications before purchase.
03
Yes, like the BW329Z, the BW389Z features a convertible guide bushing system. You can remove the guide bushing and run in chucker mode for shorter parts with low L/D ratios. This reduces bar stock waste from guide bushing remnants, which is especially valuable at 38 mm where material costs are higher.
04
PartMaker (now part of Mastercam Swiss), ESPRIT, and GibbsCAM all support multi-channel Swiss-type programming for 9-axis machines like the BW389Z. The key requirement is multi-path synchronization — your CAM needs to coordinate the three independent tool posts to minimize cycle time. SolidCAM with its Swiss machining module is another option.
05
Expect pricing in the $380,000 to $530,000 range for a new BW389Z, slightly above the BW329Z due to the larger bar capacity. Final price depends on tooling package, bar feeder selection, and options. Given the 9-axis complexity and 38 mm capacity, this is a premium machine that justifies its cost through cycle time reduction on complex parts.
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