Tsugami BW128Z-II
Key Specifications
max machinable diameter
axes
main spindle speed
back spindle speed
main spindle motor
tool positions
Overview
The Tsugami BW128Z-II is a 9-axis Swiss-type CNC automatic lathe from Tsugami's Generation II BW series, handling parts up to 12 mm (0.47 in) diameter. The Z suffix means the rear tool post has its own Z-axis movement for center alignment and additional simultaneous machining, and the II designation marks it as the current-generation platform with improvements over the original.
With 9 axes and independent opposed tool posts, the BW128Z-II runs 3-path simultaneous control — main spindle, sub spindle, and rear tool post operations all at the same time. Both spindles reach 12,000 RPM with a 2.2/3.7 kW (3/5 hp) motor. The rear tool post's Z-axis can move 5 mm for center alignment, and full Z-axis travel enables additional simultaneous machining passes.
The machine carries 24 tool positions with rapid traverse at 24 m/min on Y1/Y3, 15 m/min on Y2, and 12 m/min on X1/X3/Z3. That's fewer tools than the 28-position BW128-II, but the trade-off is the additional axis capability on the rear post. Automatic programming software comes standard on the Generation II, reducing the barrier to entry for shops new to multi-channel Swiss programming.
The selectable guide bushing system lets you switch between Swiss-mode for long parts and guide-bushless for shorter work. At 2,010 x 1,505 x 1,750 mm and 2,850 kg (6,283 lbs), it's the lightest variant in the BW12x-II family by 50 kg. The BW128Z-II is the current-production choice for shops that need maximum simultaneous machining flexibility on 12 mm parts without live tooling.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Machinable Diameter | 3-12 mm (0.12-0.47 in) |
| Axes | 9 axes |
| Main Spindle Speed | 200-12,000 RPM |
| Back Spindle Speed | 200-12,000 RPM |
| Main Spindle Motor | 2.2/3.7 kW (3/5 hp) |
| Tool Positions | 24 |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 24 m/min (Y1, Y3); 15 m/min (Y2); 12 m/min (X1, X3, Z3) |
| Guide Bushing | Yes (selectable) |
| Machine Weight | 2,850 kg (6,283 lbs) |
| Dimensions | 2,010 x 1,505 x 1,750 mm (79.1 x 59.3 x 68.9 in) |
Specifications sourced from tsugami.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 9-axis 3-path simultaneous control maximizes cycle time reduction on complex small parts
- Z-axis rear tool post movement enables center alignment and additional simultaneous operations
- 12,000 RPM dual spindles provide optimal speeds for small-diameter precision work
- Generation II automatic programming software reduces setup time and programming complexity
- Current-production model with full manufacturer support and parts availability
- Selectable guide bushing system provides flexibility for both long and short parts
Limitations
- 24 tool positions is fewer than the 28 on the BW128-II, limiting tool variety for complex parts
- No live tooling in the base spec — shops needing milled features should look at the BW129Z-II
- 9-axis programming requires experienced operators and multi-channel CAM software
- 12 mm bar capacity restricts the machine to small parts only
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The Generation II adds automatic programming software as standard, rear tool post Z-axis center alignment (5 mm travel), and various platform refinements. These improvements make the machine more accessible to operators and reduce setup time, particularly for shops running diverse part mixes that require frequent changeovers.
02
The BW128Z-II gives you 9 axes with Z-axis rear post movement for maximum simultaneous machining but only 24 tool positions. The BW128-II offers 8 axes and 28 tool positions but no Z-axis rear post travel. Choose the Z variant if cycle time optimization through 3-path simultaneous control is your priority. Choose the non-Z if you need more tool variety.
03
The BW128Z-II doesn't come with live tooling in its standard specification. For live tooling capability in the BW12x-II family, you need the BW129Z-II which offers 9-11 live tool positions. The BW128Z-II is best suited for parts that are primarily turning, threading, and grooving operations.
04
You can configure the machine for either guide bushing (Swiss) or guide-bushless (chucker) operation. Swiss mode supports the bar near the cutting point for excellent concentricity on long, slender parts. Guide-bushless mode eliminates bar remnant waste and is better for shorter parts with low L/D ratios.
