Mazak SYNCREX 20/9X

$260,000 - $380,000 Updated 2026-03-19

Key Specifications

Tool Capacity

max bar capacity

20 mm (0.787 in)

main spindle speed

8,000 RPM

main spindle power

5.5 kW (7.5 hp)

sub spindle speed

8,000 RPM

sub spindle power

3.7 kW (5 hp)

Overview

The Mazak SYNCREX 20/9X is the flagship of the 20 mm SYNCREX range, combining 20 mm (0.787 in) bar capacity with 9 axes of control and true 5-axis contouring capability. The X designation signifies the B-axis milling spindle that enables simultaneous 5-axis interpolation, setting this machine apart from conventional Swiss-type lathes and bridging the gap between Swiss precision turning and multi-tasking machining for complex small parts.

The main spindle delivers 5.5 kW (7.5 hp) at 8,000 RPM through a collet system accepting bar stock up to 20 mm diameter. The sub-spindle provides 3.7 kW (5 hp) at 8,000 RPM for back-working operations and part pickup. The guide bushing supports the bar at the cutting zone for Swiss-type rigidity, and is removable for non-guide-bushing mode on shorter parts.

What distinguishes the 20/9X is its 5-axis contouring capability through the B-axis milling spindle. This enables true simultaneous 5-axis interpolation for complex contoured surfaces, undercuts, and compound-angle features that conventional Swiss machines cannot produce. Live tooling stations provide high-speed milling, cross-drilling, and angular machining. Typical configurations include 22-26 tool positions.

The MAZATROL SmoothG CNC control supports both conversational programming for standard Swiss operations and full 5-axis G-code for complex contoured features. The machine weighs approximately 3,100 kg (6,834 lb) with a footprint of roughly 2.8 x 1.4 meters. Competitors include the Citizen L20-XII, Star SR-20J II Type G, and Tsugami SS207 5AX. New machines price between $260,000 and $380,000.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Bar Capacity	20 mm (0.787 in)
Main Spindle Speed	8,000 RPM
Main Spindle Power	5.5 kW (7.5 hp)
Sub Spindle Speed	8,000 RPM
Sub Spindle Power	3.7 kW (5 hp)
Number Of Axes	9 axes
Five Axis Contouring	Yes (B-axis milling)
Guide Bushing	Yes (removable)
Tool Stations	22-26 positions (fixed and rotary)
Live Tooling	Yes (with B-axis)
Max Machining Length	230 mm (9.06 in)
Machine Weight	3,100 kg (6,834 lb)
CNC Control	MAZATROL SmoothG CNC
Max Machining Diameter	Φ1.5"
Max Spindle Speed	8000 min-1(rpm)
Tool Capacity	39

Specifications sourced from mazak.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

9-axis configuration with true 5-axis contouring through B-axis milling enables complex contoured surfaces and undercuts that conventional Swiss machines cannot produce
20 mm bar capacity addresses the high-demand size class for medical implants, dental components, and electronic connectors
B-axis on the milling spindle enables compound-angle drilling, contoured surface milling, and undercut features directly in the Swiss-type cycle
MAZATROL SmoothG supports both conversational programming for standard operations and full 5-axis G-code for complex contoured work
Removable guide bushing provides flexibility for Swiss mode or chucker mode depending on part geometry requirements
Combines Swiss-type precision turning with multi-tasking 5-axis capability in a single compact machine, eliminating secondary operations

Limitations

5-axis contouring requires advanced CAM software (Esprit, GibbsCAM, or similar) and skilled programmers beyond standard Swiss expertise
8,000 RPM main spindle speed is lower than some competitors offering 10,000-12,000 RPM in this bar range
Starting price near $260K positions this significantly above the 20/7 and 20/8 models with the 5-axis capability adding substantial cost
As the most complex 20 mm SYNCREX model, application knowledge and setup best practices are still being developed across the user community

Best For

Medical device manufacturers producing complex dental implants, spinal cages, and custom implants requiring both Swiss-type precision and 5-axis contoured surfaces Aerospace component producers machining small turbine fittings, actuator components, and fluid system parts with compound-angle features from superalloys Electronics manufacturers producing complex connector bodies and multi-feature housings requiring contoured surfaces and undercuts from bar stock High-precision job shops that want Swiss-type capability combined with multi-tasking 5-axis flexibility for complex small parts up to 20 mm Shops consolidating secondary milling operations by completing complex parts in a single Swiss-type cycle with 5-axis contouring

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a new Mazak SYNCREX 20/9X cost?

Base SYNCREX 20/9X configurations start around $260,000. Fully equipped machines with bar feeder, parts catcher, high-pressure coolant, full live tooling complement, and B-axis milling setup run $320,000-$380,000. The 5-axis capability commands a premium over the standard 20/8 and 20/9 models.

02 What makes the 20/9X different from the 20/9?

The X designation means the 9-axis configuration includes a B-axis on the milling spindle for true 5-axis contouring capability. The standard 20/9 has 9 axes optimized for advanced Swiss-type turning with expanded cross-working. The 20/9X can produce complex contoured surfaces, compound-angle features, and undercuts that the 20/9 cannot. Both share the same bar capacity and spindle specs.

03 What CAM software works with the SYNCREX 20/9X?

For standard Swiss operations, MAZATROL conversational programming handles most turning, drilling, and simple milling. For 5-axis contouring, dedicated CAM software is required. Esprit (by Hexagon), GibbsCAM, and SOLIDCAM all support the SYNCREX platform. Post processor development may be needed for the 9-axis configuration with B-axis.

04 Is the 20/9X overkill for standard Swiss parts?

If your parts primarily require standard Swiss turning with cross-drilling and basic milling, the 20/7 or 20/8 provides better value. The 20/9X is justified when parts require contoured surfaces, compound angles, or undercuts that would otherwise need secondary operations on a mill. The 5-axis capability adds both cost and programming complexity.