Tsugami SS267-III-5AX
Key Specifications
bar capacity
main spindle speed
sub spindle speed
spindle motor
axes
b axis
Overview
The Tsugami SS267-III-5AX is a 7-axis Swiss-type CNC lathe with 26mm bar capacity and a servo-driven swiveling B-axis for true simultaneous 5-axis machining. It takes the already capable SS267-III platform and adds the ability to machine sculpted surfaces, compound angles, and complex 3D contours directly from bar stock -- capability that previously required transferring parts to a dedicated 5-axis mill.
The base platform specs are estimated from the SS26 series: 200-10,000 RPM main and sub-spindles, 3.7/5.5 kW motor, and the FANUC 31i-B5 control that provides the processing power for continuous B-axis interpolation alongside the other 7 axes. The convertible guide bushing system supports both Swiss and chucker operation.
The B-axis is the defining feature. Unlike indexed positioning that moves to discrete angles between cuts, the servo-driven B-axis moves continuously during cutting, following a programmed tool path. This enables the kind of contoured surfaces you see on dental abutments, custom orthopedic implants, and aerospace structural components. Combined with CAD/CAM software, you can program and verify complex 4 and 5-axis simultaneous tool paths before they reach the machine.
Note that most specifications are estimated from the SS26 series, with an estimated weight of 3,400 kg and dimensions of 2,020 x 1,675 x 2,020 mm. The 5AX premium over the standard SS267-III adds cost, but for parts that genuinely need continuous 5-axis machining from 26mm bar stock, this machine eliminates a secondary operation and improves accuracy by keeping the part in one setup throughout.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bar Capacity | 26 mm (1.02 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 200-10,000 RPM (estimated) |
| Sub Spindle Speed | 200-10,000 RPM (estimated) |
| Spindle Motor | 3.7/5.5 kW (estimated) |
| Axes | 7 + B-axis |
| B Axis | Servo-driven swiveling B-axis for simultaneous 5-axis machining |
| Guide Bushing | Convertible (Swiss/chucker) |
| CNC Control | FANUC 31i-B5 |
| Machine Weight | 3,400 kg (7,495 lbs) (estimated) |
| Dimensions | 2,020 x 1,675 x 2,020 mm (estimated) |
Specifications sourced from tsugami.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Servo-driven B-axis enables true simultaneous 5-axis machining for sculpted surfaces and compound angles at 26mm
- Eliminates the need to transfer parts to a 5-axis mill for complex contouring, improving accuracy and reducing cycle time
- 7-axis base platform with Y1 and Y2 handles simultaneous front and back machining alongside B-axis operations
- FANUC 31i-B5 control provides the processing power for smooth continuous 5-axis interpolation
- 26mm bar capacity fills the gap between 20mm and 32mm for mid-size precision parts needing complex geometry
- Convertible guide bushing covers both Swiss and chucker modes
Limitations
- Most specifications are estimated from the SS26 series -- verify with Tsugami for current production specs
- 5-axis Swiss programming is specialized and requires capable CAM software with B-axis simulation
- B-axis mechanism adds mechanical complexity and maintenance requirements
- Premium pricing only justified when parts genuinely require continuous 5-axis machining from bar stock
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The standard SS267-III has 7 axes with indexed Y1 and Y2 positioning. The 5AX variant adds a servo-driven B-axis that provides continuous angular motion during cutting. This enables true 5-axis simultaneous machining -- sculpted surfaces, compound angles, and 3D contours that can't be produced with indexed positioning alone.
02
The primary difference is bar capacity: 26mm vs. 20mm. The SS267-III-5AX also has a more powerful estimated 3.7/5.5 kW motor vs. 2.2/3.7 kW on the SS207-II-5AX. Both offer B-axis 5-axis simultaneous capability on the FANUC 31i-B5 control. Choose based on your part diameter requirements.
03
PartMaker (Autodesk), ESPRIT, and GibbsCAM all support 5-axis Swiss-type programming with B-axis simulation. Machine simulation that includes the B-axis motion is essential to verify tool paths and check for collisions before cutting. Post-processor support for the FANUC 31i-B5 with B-axis is available from these vendors.
04
Absolutely. The B-axis is an additional capability -- you don't have to use it. The machine functions as a standard 7-axis Swiss lathe for conventional parts, and you only engage the B-axis when parts require continuous angular machining. This makes it a versatile machine that handles both simple and complex parts.
05
The estimates are derived from the SS26 series and represent reasonable approximations. The B-axis specs (servo-driven, simultaneous 5-axis, FANUC 31i-B5 control) are confirmed from Tsugami's published documentation. For the spindle speeds, power, and physical dimensions, verify with your Tsugami dealer as production specs may differ.
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