Tornos DECO 26a

The Tornos DECO 26a is a 26mm Swiss-type automatic lathe that represents Tornos's distinctive approach to Swiss-type design: the DECO series combines CNC programmability with cam-assisted mechanical operation in a hybrid architecture that delivers cycle times and cutting forces beyond what purely CNC machines can achieve in this bar size range. The 'a' designation indicates the cam-assisted configuration—Tornos's engineering solution for applications where CNC servo response alone cannot match the speed and rigidity of mechanical cam actuation for specific tool movements.

The DECO 26a's hybrid cam-CNC architecture is particularly advantageous for high-volume production of moderately complex parts where certain turning operations benefit from mechanical cam actuation for speed while CNC programmability handles the flexibility needed for the driven tool, threading, and secondary operations. This approach targets the high-volume Swiss production market—connector components, precision fasteners, hydraulic fittings, and automotive precision parts—where cycle time is directly linked to profitability and the cam-assisted design provides a measurable speed advantage over pure CNC Swiss platforms.

With 7 axes under coordinated control and cam assistance for the primary turning motions, the DECO 26a covers a broad range of part complexity. The back spindle enables complete part machining from cutoff through full back-work, with driven tools available on both sides of the part. The 26mm bar capacity covers most of the medical implant diameter range (up to and including standard spinal screw head diameters), precision automotive fitting sizes, and the upper range of connector and fastener diameters.

Tornos's TISIS control manages the CNC channels of the DECO 26a while the cam system governs the mechanically actuated axes. The integration of these two systems is the core engineering complexity of the DECO platform and reflects Tornos's position as the only major Swiss-type manufacturer maintaining cam-assisted designs in production. This heritage gives the DECO 26a unique application characteristics that appeal to high-volume Swiss production specialists who have tested both architectures and found the cam-assisted design superior for their specific part programs.