Star ECAS-51

$170,000 - $250,000 Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

Rapid Traverse

20 m/min

max bar capacity

51 mm (2.008 in)

max machining diameter

51 mm (2.008 in)

max machining length

300 mm (11.81 in)

main spindle speed

6,500 RPM

back spindle speed

5,000 RPM

Overview

The Star ECAS-51 is Star Micronics' 51mm capacity CNC automatic lathe in the ECAS (Electric Cam Automatic Swiss) series, delivering high-production turning capability for larger-diameter components in a platform emphasizing straightforward operation, cost-effective tooling, and rapid changeover for high-volume production programs. The ECAS series represents Star's approach to high-productivity CNC automatic turning where part complexity falls within a more defined operational envelope—prioritizing throughput, accessibility, and tooling economy over the broad multi-axis capability of the SR or SH platforms.

The ECAS-51 features gang tooling configured for rapid tool presentation and aggressive cutting in high-volume production. The 51mm bar capacity addresses larger components including sizable fittings, industrial fasteners, and mechanical components that benefit from CNC automatic production economics but do not require the full Swiss-type multi-axis capability of the SH-51. The guide bushing system maintains close workpiece support for precision and surface finish on longer parts at 51mm diameter.

With a Fanuc control and Star's established programming environment, the ECAS-51 provides a familiar, accessible platform for operators experienced with CNC turning. The gang tooling approach enables rapid tool changes and straightforward tool layout for part families, reducing setup time and making the ECAS-51 well-suited to medium-run production programs where changeover frequency is higher than on dedicated transfer or multi-spindle production.

For shops whose 51mm parts are moderate in complexity but high in volume, the ECAS-51 offers a compelling combination of Swiss-type precision at 51mm diameter with the production economics and operational simplicity of the ECAS platform, without the premium investment of the SH-class machines.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Bar Capacity	51 mm (2.008 in)
Max Machining Diameter	51 mm (2.008 in)
Max Machining Length	300 mm (11.81 in)
Main Spindle Speed	6,500 RPM
Back Spindle Speed	5,000 RPM
Live Tool Speed	5,000 RPM
Number Of Axes	6 (X1, Z1, X2, Z2, C1, C2)
Tooling Style	Gang tooling with live tool stations
Tool Positions	16 (including live tools)
Guide Bushing	Yes
CNC Control	Fanuc 0i-TF
Rapid Traverse Rate	20 m/min
Machine Weight	3,600 kg (7,937 lb)
Power Consumption	16 kVA
Key People	Frank Schlesinger
Related Topics	brightness
Manufacturer	Star
Model	SV-32
Spindle Bore	56 mm

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

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Limitations

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Best For

High-volume production of moderate-complexity components in the 35-51mm diameter range Industrial component manufacturers producing fittings, connectors, and fasteners where part complexity is moderate but volume justifies CNC automatic economics Shops transitioning from cam-type automatic lathes to CNC automatic in the 51mm class Contract manufacturers needing cost-effective 51mm automatic turning for high-volume programs with predictable part geometry Oil and gas component producers machining standard fittings, nipples, and coupling bodies at volume Shops requiring Swiss-type precision at 51mm without the premium of SH-class machine investment

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the difference between the ECAS-51 and the SH-51?

The SH-51 is Star's premium 51mm Swiss-type with Y-axis, 28 tool positions, up to 9 axes, and full multi-path machining for complex parts. The ECAS-51 is the production-oriented option with gang tooling, fewer axes, and simpler operation—optimized for higher-volume programs with moderate part complexity at a lower price point.

02 What does a Star ECAS-51 cost new?

A new Star ECAS-51 typically ranges from approximately $170,000 to $250,000 depending on tooling configuration and options. The ECAS-51 is meaningfully less expensive than SH-51 class machines, reflecting the simpler axis count and gang tooling design.

03 What is the ECAS series design philosophy?

The ECAS (Electric Cam Automatic Swiss) series is designed for high-volume production of moderate-complexity parts with emphasis on simplicity, reliability, and ease of operation. Gang tooling enables rapid presentation of turning tools, and the CNC control provides flexibility without the complexity overhead of full multi-axis Swiss-type machines.

04 Is the ECAS-51 suitable for medical components?

The ECAS-51 is suitable for larger, simpler medical components that don't require complex milling or extensive back-end work—housings, body components, and precision turning applications at 51mm. For complex medical implants requiring off-center milling and compound-angle features, the SH-51 is more appropriate.

05 What bar loading equipment is compatible with the ECAS-51?

The ECAS-51 is compatible with standard hydrodynamic bar loaders from LNS, Iemca, and FMB in the 51mm capacity range. Star Micronics and regional distributors can recommend specific bar loader configurations optimized for the ECAS-51's bar feed requirements.