Tsugami BW208Z-I
Key Specifications
max machinable diameter
axes
main spindle speed
back spindle speed
main spindle motor
tool positions
Overview
The Tsugami BW208Z-I is a 9-axis Swiss-type CNC automatic lathe with a 20 mm (0.79 in) maximum machinable diameter and independent opposed tool posts. It's the 20 mm counterpart to the BW128Z-I, stepping up bar capacity while maintaining the same 9-axis 3-path simultaneous machining architecture that defines the BW series.
The Z suffix means the rear tool post has its own Z-axis movement, enabling center alignment and additional simultaneous machining operations that non-Z variants can't match. With 9 axes and 3-path control, you can run main spindle turning, sub spindle back-working, 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 machine carries 24 tool positions and runs rapid traverse rates of 24 m/min on Y1/Y3, 15 m/min on Y2, and 12 m/min on X1/X3/Z3. The guide bushing system is selectable for switching between Swiss-mode and guide-bushless operation depending on part geometry. At 20 mm capacity, you're into the territory of larger connector bodies, hydraulic fittings, and medical implant components where the additional bar diameter makes a real difference in the range of parts you can tackle.
Footprint and weight are identical to the 12 mm variants: 2,010 x 1,505 x 1,750 mm and 2,850 kg (6,283 lbs). This means you can run a mix of BW128Z-I and BW208Z-I machines on the same floor with identical spacing requirements. The BW208Z-I is a first-generation machine that has since been replaced by the BW208Z-II with refinements.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Machinable Diameter | 3-20 mm (0.12-0.79 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
- 20 mm machinable diameter handles a broader range of parts than 12 mm-class machines like the BW128Z-I
- 9-axis 3-path simultaneous control reduces cycle times by running three operations concurrently
- Z-axis on rear tool post enables center alignment and additional simultaneous machining flexibility
- Independent opposed tool posts eliminate shared turret indexing delays
- 2.2/3.7 kW main spindle motor provides solid torque for 20 mm steel and stainless turning
- Same compact footprint as the 12 mm BW128Z-I despite the larger bar capacity
Limitations
- 24 tool positions is fewer than the 28-30 positions on the live-tooling BW209Z-I variant
- No live tooling specified — shops needing cross-drilling or milling features should consider the BW209Z-I
- First-generation model superseded by the BW208Z-II with improvements
- 9-axis complexity demands experienced operators and multi-channel CAM software
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The BW208Z-I has 24 tool positions without specified live tooling, while the BW209Z-I offers 28-30 tool positions with 9-11 live tool stations at 8,000/10,000 RPM. The BW209Z-I also has a slightly different spindle configuration with 200-10,000 RPM on the main spindle and 200-12,000 RPM on the sub spindle. Choose the BW209Z-I if your parts need milled or drilled features.
02
Bar capacity: 20 mm vs 12 mm. The spindle speeds and motor power are identical (12,000 RPM, 2.2/3.7 kW), and both share the same footprint and tool count. The BW208Z-I simply handles larger-diameter work. Choose based on your maximum part diameter requirements.
03
No, the Generation I has been replaced by the BW208Z-II. New machines from Tsugami will be the II generation. The I-generation is available on the used market and can represent good value for shops that don't need the latest refinements.
04
You can configure the machine to run with or without the guide bushing. Swiss-mode with the guide bushing supports the bar near the cutting zone for excellent concentricity on long, slender parts. Guide-bushless mode saves bar stock by eliminating remnant lengths and is better suited for shorter parts with low L/D ratios.
