Tsugami P013
Key Specifications
max machinable diameter
main spindle speed
back spindle
axes
spindle motor
tool positions
Overview
The Tsugami P013 is a ultra-compact 3-axis CNC precision automatic lathe built specifically for mass production of micro parts with a maximum machinable diameter of just 1 mm (0.039 in). This is Tsugami's smallest capacity machine in the P-series lineup, purpose-built for industries where parts are measured in fractions of a millimeter — think contact probes, watch components, and micro-connectors.
What makes the P013 stand out is its main spindle speed of 25,000 RPM, which is absolutely essential when you're turning parts at sub-millimeter diameters. At those sizes, you need extreme RPM to maintain proper surface speed. The 0.75/1.1 kW (1/1.5 HP) spindle motor is modest by any standard, but it's perfectly matched to the cutting forces involved at these micro scales. The machine carries 11 tool positions on a gang-type tool post, which is sufficient for the typical micro-part cycle.
The P013 doesn't have a back spindle — that's the key distinction between the P013 (3-axis) and the P014 (4-axis with back spindle). If your parts require backworking operations like back-facing, back-drilling, or cutoff cleanup, you'll need to step up to the P014. But for straightforward front-side-only micro turning, the P013 keeps things simple and fast.
One of the most impressive aspects is the floor space. At just 0.8 square meters, the P013 occupies barely more space than a desk. The overall dimensions of 1,770 x 820 x 1,600 mm (69.7 x 32.3 x 63.0 in) mean you can pack multiple units into a production cell. Chuck gripping force is numerically adjustable via air regulators, which is critical when you're holding parts that could deform under excessive clamping pressure. Tsugami claims machining capability down to 0.05 mm diameter, which puts this machine in a class few others can match.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Machinable Diameter | 1 mm (0.039 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 25,000 RPM |
| Back Spindle | N/A (no back spindle) |
| Axes | 3 |
| Spindle Motor | 0.75/1.1 kW (1/1.5 HP) |
| Tool Positions | 11 |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 20 m/min |
| Dimensions | 1,770 x 820 x 1,600 mm (69.7 x 32.3 x 63.0 in) |
| Machine Weight | 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) |
| Floor Space | 0.8 m² |
| Coolant Capacity | 50L |
Specifications sourced from tsugami.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 25,000 RPM main spindle delivers the surface speeds needed for sub-millimeter diameter turning
- Incredibly compact 0.8 m² footprint allows high-density production cell layouts with multiple machines
- Air-regulated chuck gripping force prevents part deformation on delicate micro components
- Capable of machining parts down to 0.05 mm diameter — among the smallest in the industry
- Gang tool post with 11 positions keeps cycle times short with minimal tool indexing delays
- Lightweight 1,000 kg machine is straightforward to install and relocate
Limitations
- No back spindle means parts requiring backworking operations need a secondary process or the P014 model
- 1 mm maximum diameter severely limits the machine to dedicated micro-part applications only
- 3-axis configuration restricts off-centerline work — no Y-axis milling capability
- Small tool capacity of 11 positions may require creative tooling strategies for complex part geometries
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The P013 is a 3-axis machine without a back spindle, while the P014 adds a 4th axis with a back spindle running at 25,000 RPM. The P014 also carries 14 tool positions versus 11 on the P013 and weighs 1,050 kg. If your parts need any backworking — back-facing, back-drilling, or cutoff cleanup — you'll need the P014. The P013 is the better choice for front-side-only parts where simplicity and lower cost matter.
02
Tsugami specifies the P013 series as capable of machining parts at 0.05 mm diameter and below. Achieving this in practice requires specialized micro tooling, vibration-free conditions, and careful programming. The 25,000 RPM spindle provides the necessary surface speed, and the air-regulated chuck gripping force prevents crushing these extremely delicate workpieces. Not every shop will hit 0.05 mm reliably, but the machine has the precision and speed to make it possible.
03
At 1 mm max diameter, you're typically working with free-machining brass, copper alloys, aluminum, precious metals (gold, platinum for watch parts), and specialty alloys. The 0.75/1.1 kW spindle motor is sized for these softer metals at micro diameters. Stainless steel and titanium are possible but require reduced speeds and careful tool selection. The tiny cutting forces at these diameters mean tool wear and surface finish are the primary concerns.
04
The P013 competes with machines like the Citizen R04/R07 and Tornos SwissNano in the micro-turning space. Tsugami's advantage is the extremely high 25,000 RPM spindle speed and the compact 0.8 m² footprint. The trade-off is the limited 3-axis, 11-tool configuration. For shops that need back spindle capability at micro diameters, the P014 or the Citizen R07 with sub-spindle are better fits.
05
Due to the sub-millimeter bar diameters, standard bar feeders won't work. You'll need a micro bar feeder designed for wire-diameter stock, typically from brands like FMB Turbo or LNS. Some shops use proprietary feeding systems or coiled wire feeders. Bar straightness and concentricity are absolutely critical at these diameters — any runout in the bar stock will show up immediately in part quality.
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Jeff Boulden
Tsugami America
Tsugami America
