Tsugami SS327-III
Key Specifications
bar capacity
main spindle speed
sub spindle speed
spindle motor
axes
live tool speed b axis
Overview
The Tsugami SS327-III is a 7-axis opposed gang tool Swiss-type CNC lathe with 32 mm (1.25 in) bar capacity, representing the largest machine in Tsugami's SS-series modular tool zone lineup. This is where big-bar Swiss capability meets maximum axis count and tooling flexibility.
The spec sheet is well-documented: 200-8,000 RPM on both main and sub-spindles, 3.7/5.5 kW spindle motor, and live tooling running at 6,000 RPM standard with 7,000 RPM available on B-axis compatible positions. Total tool capacity hits 36 positions with 18/20 live tool stations -- that's a lot of capability for producing complete parts in one hit. The modular tool zone uses Tsugami's cartridge-type quick-change tooling system.
Headstock stroke reaches 330 mm (12.99 in) with the guide bushing installed and 70 mm (2.74 in) in chucker mode. The convertible design means one machine covers both long shaft work and short chucker parts. The FANUC 31i-B5 control manages the 7-axis coordination -- this is the same premium control found on the SS207-II, providing the processing power needed for smooth multi-axis interpolation.
At 4,000 kg (8,800 lbs) and 2,150 x 1,280 x 2,010 mm (84.6 x 50.3 x 79.1 in), the SS327-III is actually more compact than the B032-III while offering more axes and a more advanced control. It's designed for shops that need maximum flexibility and capability on 32mm Swiss parts -- medical, aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications where complex features on both sides of the part must be completed in a single setup.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bar Capacity | 32 mm (1.25 in) |
| Main Spindle Speed | 200-8,000 RPM |
| Sub Spindle Speed | 200-8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor | 3.7/5.5 kW |
| Axes | 7 |
| Live Tool Speed B Axis | 7,000 RPM |
| Live Tool Speed Standard | 6,000 RPM |
| Tool Positions | 36 |
| Live Tool Positions Std Max | 18/20 |
| Headstock Stroke With Guide Bushing | 330 mm (12.99 in) |
| Headstock Stroke Without Guide Bushing | 70 mm (2.74 in) |
| Guide Bushing | Convertible (Swiss/chucker) |
| CNC Control | FANUC 31i-B5 |
| Machine Weight | 4,000 kg (8,800 lbs) |
| Dimensions | 2,150 x 1,280 x 2,010 mm (84.6 x 50.3 x 79.1 in) |
Specifications sourced from tsugami.co.jp — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 7-axis configuration with full Y1/Y2 capability enables the most complex 32mm parts in a single setup
- 36 tool positions with 18-20 live stations provides extensive tooling capacity for multi-feature parts
- FANUC 31i-B5 premium control delivers smooth 7-axis interpolation with headroom for complex programs
- 330mm headstock stroke handles long shafts and pins common in the 32mm part class
- 7,000 RPM live tooling on B-axis positions exceeds the 6,000 RPM standard for more productive milling
- More compact footprint than the B032-III despite offering more axes and capability
Limitations
- 8,000 RPM max spindle speed is appropriate for 32mm stock but slower than what smaller machines offer
- 7-axis programming requires experienced operators and capable CAM software with Swiss-type simulation
- Premium FANUC 31i-B5 control increases upfront cost and service expenses vs. simpler 32i-B or 0i-TF
- 4,000 kg weight and floor loading requirements demand solid installation planning
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Both handle 32mm bar stock, but the SS327-III has 7 axes vs. the B0326's 6 axes, and runs on the premium FANUC 31i-B5 vs. 32i-B. The SS327-III has a more compact footprint and its modular tool zone with cartridge-type tooling is designed for faster changeovers. The B0326 offers more total tool positions (42 vs. 36) and more live stations (26 vs. 20). Choose the SS327-III for parts needing 7-axis capability; the B0326 for maximum tooling density.
02
Yes. The SS327-III-5AX variant adds a servo-driven swiveling B-axis for true simultaneous 5-axis machining. The base SS327-III already has B-axis compatible live tool positions running at 7,000 RPM, but the 5AX variant adds continuous B-axis interpolation for sculpted surfaces and compound angles.
03
The 31i-B5 is a higher-tier control with 5-path capability, faster block processing, more memory, and smoother multi-axis interpolation. For a 7-axis machine with simultaneous operations on both spindles, the 31i-B5's processing headroom matters. The 32i-B can handle 5-6 axes but gets stretched on complex 7-axis simultaneous programs.
04
With 7 axes, 36 tool positions, 20 live stations, and both Swiss and chucker modes, the SS327-III can produce nearly any part that fits within 32mm bar stock in a single setup. Think of a part with turned features, cross-holes, flats, hex profiles, and threading on both ends -- all completed in one cycle. The only limitation at this axis count is the physical envelope of the tool zone.
05
The B-axis compatible tool positions use a different drive mechanism optimized for the higher speeds needed during 5-axis interpolation, where the tool orientation changes continuously during cutting. The 7,000 RPM provides better surface speed for milling operations during angular moves. Standard live tool positions at 6,000 RPM are adequate for indexed operations.
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