Swiss-type Automatic Lathe – is also called Swiss type Lathe, swiss turning center, Sliding headstock lathe, Sliding headstock automatic Lathe, Swiss screw machine, Swiss-type screw machine and son on, which is a precision processing equipment that can complete turning, milling, drilling, boring, tapping, engraving and other complex processing at the same time. Mainly used for batch machining (processing) of precision hardware and special-shaped non-standard parts such as shafts.
Swiss-type automatic lathes are generally used to produce small parts from bar stock, with large quantities, many of which are formed in one go. As long as it involves the machining of rods, the diameter cannot exceed 20mm. The Swiss-type automatic lathe has great advantages in matching with the feeder (because the center lathe must match the feeder to process), so that it is a small independent production line with advantages in processing speed, labor cost, etc.
The material loaded on Swiss-type automatic lathes is moving, and the tool is moving. It is mainly used for loading small parts and mass production. Generally, the feeder passes the bar through the through hole of the spindle, and the spring chuck automatically clamps it. If the part is hung and stretched, the centers need to match. If the tail needs to be machined, a second spindle is required. If you need to machine four or six equal holes, you will need an electric tool holder and spindle indexing. Swiss-type automatic lathes are mainly limited by the diameter of the material. Generally, the largest model center lathe can only process parts with a diameter of 32mm. As long as it is a part that can be made by a Swiss-type automatic lathe, its processing accuracy, machining speed, and feed amount are all difficult to compare with other CNC machines.
Swiss-type automatic lathes have advantages as below,
1. High precision
The sliding headstock design keeps the workpiece supported close to the cutting tool (via a guide bushing), minimizing deflection and vibration. That allows tolerances as tight as ±0.001 mm in some cases.
2. High productivity
They can perform several operations simultaneously, very suitable for large-volume production.
3. Ideal for long, slender parts
Unlike conventional lathes, the bar is supported along its entire machining length, so parts with high length-to-diameter ratios can be turned without chatter.
4. Multiple operations in one setup
Swiss type machines often have main and sub spindles plus multiple tool stations, allowing turning, milling, drilling, tapping, and even thread whirling in one cycle. Reduces handling and improves accuracy.
5. Good surface finish
The rigid support and fine control over feeds/speeds give smoother finishes, often eliminating secondary polishing.
6. Small footprint for complex machining
A single Swiss-type autoatic lathe can replace multiple conventional machines for small parts.
7. Good for difficult-to-machine materials
Works well with stainless steel, titanium, and exotic alloys, making it popular in medical, aerospace, and watchmaking industries.
