Machine Comparison
Star Micronics SL-10 vs Star Micronics SK-51 Type A
Star Micronics vs Star Micronics · Swiss-Type Lathes
Summary
The Star Micronics SL-10 and Star Micronics SK-51 Type A are both from Star Micronics's swiss-type lathes lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Star Micronics ecosystem. The Star Micronics SK-51 Type A shows specification advantages in 6 categories, though the Star Micronics SL-10 may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a swiss-type lathe.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Star Micronics SL-10 | Star Micronics SK-51 Type A |
|---|---|---|
| Control | FANUC 32i-B (10.4" color LCD) | FANUC 32i-B |
| Max Machining Diameter | 10 mm (25/64 in) | 51 mm (2 in) ▲ |
| Main Spindle Speed | 18,000 RPM (stationary GB) / 15,000 RPM (RGB) ▲ | 5,000 RPM |
| Main Spindle Power | 3.7 kW continuous / 5.5 kW (10 min, 25% ED) | 7.5 kW continuous / 11 kW (15 min) ▲ |
| Sub Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM ▲ | 5,000 RPM |
| Sub Spindle Power | 0.55 kW continuous / 1.1 kW (15 min, 40% ED) | 7.5 kW continuous / 11 kW (15 min) ▲ |
| Coolant Tank | 109 L | 458 L ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 1,600 kg (3,527 lb) | 6,600 kg (14,550 lb) ▲ |
| Dimensions | 1,865 x 795 x 1,815 mm | 2,800 x 2,070 x 2,130 mm ▲ |
| Price Range | $70,000 - $120,000 ▲ | $250,000 - $400,000 |
Advantages
Star Micronics SL-10
- Superior main spindle speed at 18,000 RPM (stationary GB) / 15,000 RPM (RGB) vs 5,000 RPM
- Superior sub spindle speed at 12,000 RPM vs 5,000 RPM
- More competitive pricing at $70,000 - $120,000 compared to $250,000 - $400,000
Star Micronics SK-51 Type A
- Superior max machining diameter at 51 mm (2 in) vs 10 mm (25/64 in)
- Superior main spindle power at 7.5 kW continuous / 11 kW (15 min) vs 3.7 kW continuous / 5.5 kW (10 min, 25% ED)
- Superior sub spindle power at 7.5 kW continuous / 11 kW (15 min) vs 0.55 kW continuous / 1.1 kW (15 min, 40% ED)
- Superior coolant tank at 458 L vs 109 L
- Superior machine weight at 6,600 kg (14,550 lb) vs 1,600 kg (3,527 lb)
Verdict
The Star Micronics SK-51 Type A edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in max machining diameter and main spindle power. However, the Star Micronics SL-10 remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.