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Swiss-type lathes use a sliding headstock with guide bushing that provides support for barstock very close to the point of contact for an OD cutting tool. It’s this feature that makes them very effective for turning very long workpieces.
However, the capability to perform multiple operations, including backworking, makes these machines attractive for complex, shorter parts, too. Plus, the resulting stability lets a Swiss-type cut aggressively without sacrificing tool life or precision. This is evident in video of a Tsugami BS26C Swiss-type (available from REM Sales in Windsor, Connecticut) machining an intricate airbag component complete from barstock. Operations performed include turning, boring, drilling, grooving and knurling. The BS26C in the video features driven tool positions for both its main and sub spindles. Transferring the part to the sub-spindle for backworking operations allows for complete production of this tricky component.