Swiss CNC Machining Guide
Swiss-type lathes (sliding headstock) are the go-to for small, complex, high-precision turned parts. The bar stock feeds through a guide bushing near the cutting point, eliminating deflection for parts with length-to-diameter ratios exceeding 10:1.
Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Bar diameter | 1-38mm |
| Max turned length | 100-500mm |
| Tolerances | ±0.005mm typical |
| Surface finish | Ra 0.2-0.8µm |
| Spindle speed | 6,000-15,000 RPM |
| Tool stations | 12-36 |
Applications
- Medical: Bone screws, dental implants, surgical instruments
- Aerospace: Connector pins, hydraulic fittings, sensor housings
- Automotive: Fuel injectors, valve seats, sensor bodies
- Electronics: Connector pins, micro shafts, RF components
Design Guidelines
- Specify stock close to max OD to avoid waste
- Swiss excels above 5:1 L/D ratio. Below that, standard CNC lathe is more economical
- Avoid intersecting cross holes within 2x diameter of each other
- Internal threads: length ≤2.5x diameter for M3 and smaller
- Keep slot/flat width ≥1mm for tool availability
Materials
Free-machining grades dramatically improve cycle time: 12L14 (steel), 303 (stainless), 2011 (aluminum), 360 (brass). Medical: 316LVM and Ti-6Al-4V ELI.