Star Micronics SL-10

$70,000 - $120,000 Updated 2026-03-14

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

18,000 min

Tool Capacity

6 tools

Rapid Traverse

35m/min (X1,X2,Y1,Z1,Z2), 15m/min (Y2)

Spindle Power

3.7kW (continuous) / 5.5kW (10min./25%ED)

Max Turn Length

135mm (5-5/16in)

max machining diameter

10 mm (25/64 in)

Overview

The Star Micronics SL-10 is an entry-level sliding headstock CNC automatic lathe designed for shops entering the world of Swiss-type turning or dedicated small-part production cells. Available in SL-7 (7mm) and SL-10 (10mm) configurations, this machine delivers Star's precision engineering in the most compact and accessible package in their lineup. The SL designation—entry level—signals that Star designed this machine to lower the barriers to Swiss-type adoption while maintaining the fundamental precision and reliability that define the brand.

The SL-10's main spindle reaches an impressive 18,000 RPM in stationary guide bush mode (15,000 RPM with revolving guide bush), delivering exceptional surface speeds on small-diameter parts. With 3.7 kW continuous power (5.5 kW peak), the main spindle punches above its weight class for a machine in this size range. The sub spindle runs at 12,000 RPM with 0.55 kW continuous power for back-working operations. Six main tools with 8mm or 10mm shanks provide the front-working capability, while a back 6-spindle unit handles secondary operations.

Cross-working is handled by a 1-tool ER11 position plus 4 cartridge-type positions on the cross-drilling unit, with power-driven attachment speeds up to 12,000 RPM. The machine features C-axis control on both main and sub spindles for indexed milling, drilling, and polygon machining. Multiple headstock configurations are available: stationary guide bush (135mm stroke), revolving guide bush (105mm stroke), and revolving magic guide bush (75mm stroke).

Despite its entry-level positioning, the SL-10 runs on the advanced FANUC 32i-B control with a 10.4-inch color LCD display—the same control platform used on Star's premium models. At 1,600 kg and an ultra-compact 1,865 x 795 mm footprint, the SL-10 is the smallest machine in Star's lineup, making it ideal for shops where every square foot counts. Rapid traverse at 35 m/min on primary axes ensures quick positioning between cuts.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Machining Diameter	10 mm (25/64 in)
Max Headstock Stroke Stationary	135 mm (5-5/16 in)
Max Headstock Stroke Rgb	105 mm
Max Headstock Stroke Rmgb	75 mm
Main Spindle Speed	18,000 RPM (stationary GB) / 15,000 RPM (RGB)
Main Spindle Power	3.7 kW continuous / 5.5 kW (10 min, 25% ED)
Sub Spindle Speed	12,000 RPM
Sub Spindle Power	0.55 kW continuous / 1.1 kW (15 min, 40% ED)
Main Tools	6 tools (8 mm or 10 mm shank)
Back Unit	6-spindle (6 tools)
Cross Drilling Unit	1 tool (ER11) + 4 cartridge positions
Power Driven Speed	12,000 RPM
Rapid Feed Rate	35 m/min (X1, X2, Y1, Z1, Z2), 15 m/min (Y2)
C Axis	Main and sub spindle
CNC Control	FANUC 32i-B (10.4" color LCD)
Coolant Tank	109 L
Machine Weight	1,600kg
Dimensions	1,865 x 795 x 1,815 mm
Max Turning Diameter	10mm (25/64in)
Max Turning Length	135mm (5-5/16in)
Max Spindle Speed	18,000 min
Spindle Motor Power	3.7kW (continuous) / 5.5kW (10min./25%ED)
Tool Capacity	6 tools
Tool Shank	8mm/10mm
Max Drilling Capability	6mm (15/64in)
Max Tapping Capability	M5xP0.8
Rapid Traverse Rate	35m/min (X1,X2,Y1,Z1,Z2), 15m/min (Y2)
Coolant Capacity	109
Floor Space	1,865x795x1,815mm
Cnc Control	FANUC 32i-B
Electrical	3.8kVA
Max Chucking Diameter	10mm (25/64in)
Max Length Front Ejection	70mm (2-3/4in)
Max Parts Projection Length	20mm (25/32in)

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

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Limitations

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Best For

Watch and clock manufacturers producing stems, crowns, pushers, and precision small components under 10mm diameter Medical device shops producing micro screws, dental bracket pins, hearing aid components, and miniature surgical instrument parts Electronics manufacturers producing micro connector pins, contact terminals, and precision small shafts at high volumes Shops entering Swiss-type turning for the first time and wanting a proven platform with advanced control at an accessible price point Contract shops needing a dedicated small-parts Swiss lathe to complement larger machines in the cell Jewelry manufacturers producing precision small turned components and miniature fittings

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a Star Micronics SL-10 cost?

A new Star SL-10 typically costs $70,000-$120,000 depending on guide bush configuration, tooling options, and bar feeder. This makes it one of the most affordable ways to own a Star Micronics Swiss-type lathe. Used SL-series machines trade in the $35,000-$65,000 range when available.

02 What is the difference between the SL-7 and SL-10?

The SL-7 accepts bar stock up to 7mm diameter while the SL-10 handles up to 10mm. Both share the same machine platform, control, and basic tooling configuration. The SL-10 is the more versatile choice for most shops; the SL-7 is for dedicated micro-machining applications where the smaller bar capacity is sufficient.

03 Why does the SL-10 have a 32i-B control instead of a simpler control?

Star chose the FANUC 32i-B to give SL-10 owners the same programming environment and capability as their larger machines. This means operators trained on the SL-10 can transition seamlessly to SR or SV series machines, and programs can be shared across the shop floor with minimal modification. The 32i-B also future-proofs the machine for more complex parts as the shop's Swiss-type capabilities mature.

04 Can the SL-10 machine titanium?

Yes. The 3.7 kW continuous spindle power and 18,000 RPM capability make the SL-10 well-suited for titanium alloys like Ti-6Al-4V at sub-10mm diameters. At 10mm diameter and 18,000 RPM, the machine delivers approximately 565 m/min surface speed, which is far above the typical 60-90 m/min required for titanium. Operators will run at reduced RPM with appropriate feeds for optimal tool life.

05 What is the revolving magic guide bush?

Star's revolving magic guide bush (R.M.G.B.) is a special guide bushing configuration that allows the machine to switch between guide bush and non-guide bush operation without physically removing the guide bush. This saves setup time when transitioning between long and short parts, and reduces bar remnant waste on parts that do not require guide bush support.

06 Is the SL-10 suitable for production environments?

Absolutely. Despite its compact size, the SL-10 is designed for production with bar feeding capability, C-axis control on both spindles, and the same robust construction quality as Star's larger machines. The 18,000 RPM spindle and 35 m/min rapid traverse support fast cycle times. Many shops run SL-10 machines in multi-machine cells with a single operator overseeing several units.