Star SH-51

$260,000 - $380,000 Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

Rapid Traverse

22 m/min

max bar capacity

51 mm (2.008 in)

max machining diameter

51 mm (2.008 in)

max machining length

320 mm (12.60 in)

main spindle speed

7,000 RPM

back spindle speed

6,000 RPM

Overview

The Star SH-51 is Star Micronics' flagship Swiss-type lathe for the 51mm bar capacity class, representing the highest level of Swiss-type capability available from Star for large-diameter precision components. The 'SH' designation indicates Star's premium large-capacity platform, and the 51mm capacity addresses the growing demand for complete single-setup machining of larger precision components in medical, aerospace, oil and gas, and heavy industrial applications.

At 51mm bar capacity, the SH-51 opens full Swiss-type capability—guide bushing precision, simultaneous multi-axis machining, integrated back spindle, and live tooling—to a component diameter range that traditionally required conventional turning centers with all the associated handling, fixturing, and secondary operation costs. Components including large orthopedic implant stems, aerospace actuator shafts, hydraulic valve spools, and precision industrial coupling bodies are natural targets for the SH-51's capabilities.

The SH-51 features a generous tool count, Y-axis for off-center milling, and a back spindle capable of meaningful second-end work on parts at the full 51mm diameter. Star's guide bushing system is engineered for the substantial rigidity requirements of 51mm diameter work, and the machine's heavy construction absorbs the considerable cutting forces generated during aggressive machining of difficult alloys at this diameter class.

With high live tool RPM, multi-path simultaneous machining capability, and Star's established control and software ecosystem, the SH-51 enables high-production machining of large-diameter complex parts with the quality consistency and cycle time predictability that high-volume manufacturing demands. For shops that have been running 51mm parts on conventional turning centers with secondary operations, the SH-51 offers a compelling consolidation pathway.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Bar Capacity	51 mm (2.008 in)
Max Machining Diameter	51 mm (2.008 in)
Max Machining Length	320 mm (12.60 in)
Main Spindle Speed	7,000 RPM
Back Spindle Speed	6,000 RPM
Live Tool Speed	7,000 RPM
Number Of Axes	Up to 9 (including Y1, C1, C2)
Tool Positions	28 (including live tools)
Y Axis Stroke	±15 mm
Guide Bushing	Yes
CNC Control	Fanuc 31i-B5
Rapid Traverse Rate	22 m/min
Machine Weight	4,200 kg (9,259 lb)
Power Consumption	22 kVA
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

Medical device manufacturers producing large orthopedic implant stems, acetabular components, and spinal fixation devices requiring Swiss-type precision at 51mm Oil and gas suppliers machining valve spools, hydraulic component bodies, and precision fitting bodies in difficult alloys Aerospace manufacturers producing large-diameter actuator shafts, hydraulic components, and structural connectors Contract manufacturers competing for high-value 51mm complex part programs that competitors cannot complete in a single setup Shops replacing multiple machines (turning + milling + secondary operations) with a single SH-51 for their most complex large-diameter parts Defense suppliers machining precision components for guidance systems, actuators, and hydraulic systems at 51mm

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a Star SH-51 cost?

A new Star SH-51 typically ranges from $260,000 to $380,000 depending on configuration, tooling package, and options. Used SH-51 machines are less common on the resale market due to lower production volumes in the 51mm class, but when available typically sell for $100,000–$200,000.

02 What is the advantage of the SH-51 over the SB-51?

The SH-51 is Star's premium 51mm Swiss lathe with Y-axis, higher tool count (28 vs 18), higher live tool RPM, and full multi-axis simultaneous machining capability. The SB-51 is the value-tier option for medium-complexity parts at lower cost. Choose the SH-51 when your 51mm parts require off-center milling, complex back-end operations, or high tooling density to complete in a single cycle.

03 Can the SH-51 machine Inconel and other superalloys?

Yes. The SH-51's heavy construction, adequate spindle torque at 51mm, and rigid guide bushing system handle nickel superalloys (Inconel 625, 718), cobalt-chrome, and tool steels. These materials require optimized tooling (CBN, PVD-coated carbide), conservative speeds and feeds, and excellent coolant delivery—all achievable on the SH-51 with proper application setup.

04 What is the machining length capability of the SH-51?

The SH-51 provides up to 320mm (12.60 in) of machining length from the main spindle. With the guide bushing system supporting the workpiece, this length can be achieved with excellent dimensional consistency—a key advantage over conventional turning for slender 51mm parts.

05 How does the SH-51 compare to competitive 51mm Swiss lathes?

The SH-51 competes with Citizen's L51 series and Tornos' SIGMA 51 in the premium 51mm Swiss-type class. Star's differentiators include MCS cycle time optimization and hydraulic-free design. All three are capable machines; the choice often comes down to tooling system preference, control familiarity, and local service and application support quality.