Spex offers Swiss-style CNC turning for precision small-diameter parts up to 7/8" diameter and lengths to 4". Our Swiss machines use guide bushing technology to maintain tight tolerances on long, slender parts where conventional turning becomes difficult. Our ISO 9001:2015 certified screw machine shop specializes in high-volume production of complex small components.
Swiss machining's guide bushing design supports the material near the cutting tool, enabling higher precision and better surface finishes on small-diameter parts. Multiple tool positions allow simultaneous operations, reducing cycle times and improving production efficiency for complex small components.
Swiss machining excels at small, precise components requiring tight tolerances and superior surface finishes. The process is ideal for long, slender parts where diameter-to-length ratios make conventional turning difficult. Complex small parts combining multiple features like threads, grooves, and cross-holes are completed efficiently in single setups.
Chemical Processing
These systems require small precision components for sampling and chemical delivery systems. Swiss machining delivers the corrosion resistance and surface finishes needed for aggressive environments.
HVAC & Heat Exchange
HVAC applications rely on small precision components for temperature control and monitoring systems. Tight tolerances and surface finishes maintain proper operation in temperature management devices.
Measurement & Instrumentation
This industry requires small, precise components for sensors and control devices. Swiss machining's ability to hold tight tolerances on small diameters makes it ideal for sensing and monitoring equipment.
Swiss screw machining isn't just another turning process; it's a specialized solution designed for specific manufacturing challenges.
While conventional CNC turning has its place, Swiss-style turning excels when your project demands precision and efficiency for certain types of components. Understanding when to specify Swiss machining can help ensure you get the high-quality, cost-effective parts you need, delivered reliably.
So, how do you know if Swiss machining is the ideal fit for your requirements?
Consider these key scenarios:
Small Diameter Parts: Swiss machines are purpose-built for intricate components, typically up to 1.25 inches in diameter (at Spex, we specialize in parts up to 7/8" diameter). If you're sourcing tiny, precise parts, Swiss machining offers unparalleled accuracy and efficiency.
Long, Slender Components: Does your part have a high length-to-diameter ratio? This is where Swiss machining truly shines. The signature guide bushing supports the material right next to the cutting tool. This minimizes deflection and vibration, allowing us to maintain tight tolerances and excellent surface finishes on long, thin parts where conventional turning often struggles.
Complex Geometries in High Volumes: Need parts with multiple features like threads, slots, cross-holes, or complex profiles? Swiss machines utilize multiple tools operating simultaneously. This allows complex parts to often be completed in a single setup, drastically reducing cycle times and improving cost-effectiveness, especially for high-volume production runs.
Tight Tolerances & Superior Finishes: The inherent stability provided by the guide bushing system enables Swiss machines to consistently hold very tight dimensional and geometric tolerances. This process naturally produces smoother surface finishes compared to many other methods, often reducing the need for secondary finishing operations.
High Production Volumes: The efficiency gained from simultaneous operations and single-setup complexity makes Swiss machining highly cost-effective for medium to high-volume orders. Once set up, these machines can produce intricate parts quickly and consistently.
If your components fit these descriptions – particularly small, complex, or long and slender parts required in volume – Swiss screw machining is likely the most capable and efficient manufacturing solution. Partnering with an experienced provider like Spex ensures you leverage this technology effectively for reliable, precision parts delivered on time.
Our quality control team inspects parts throughout the production process to ensure they meet customer specifications. Our ISO 9001:2015 certified quality system maintains consistent standards from first article to production runs. Documentation includes material traceability, inspection reports, and First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR) based on customer requirements.
If you have a question about our Swiss screw machining services, or want to request a quote, reach out to our team by filling out the form or email sales@spex1.com.
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Scalable production
Short lead times
Fair prices
ISO-9001 certified
Secondary processes
Range of materials
On-time delivery
75+ years in business
Advanced CNC machining
Rapid prototyping
The lead time for Swiss machined parts depends on several variables. Key factors include the complexity of the part design, which affects programming and machining time, as well as the availability of the specified raw material. Order quantity naturally plays a role, as does the need for any specialized tooling. Required secondary operations like heat treating or plating add extra steps, and the supplier's current shop capacity and specific quality inspection requirements also influence the final schedule.
To receive an accurate quote for Swiss machining, you'll typically need to provide comprehensive information to the supplier. This includes a detailed technical drawing or CAD model showing all dimensions and tolerances, the specific material type and grade required, and the desired order quantity. It's also important to communicate your required delivery date, any specific surface finish needs, details on necessary secondary operations, and any specific quality documentation requirements, such as material certifications or First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs).
Due to the inherent stability of the process (thanks to the guide bushing), Swiss machining can consistently achieve very tight dimensional and geometric tolerances. Specific tolerances depend on the part geometry, material, and size, but it's known for high precision.
The key difference is the guide bushing and sliding headstock in a Swiss machine. In conventional turning, the part rotates and the tool moves along it. In Swiss machining, the bar stock moves axially through the guide bushing past stationary or rotating tools. This support near the cut minimizes deflection, allowing for tighter tolerances on long, thin parts.
Choosing the right Swiss machining supplier involves evaluating several critical factors to ensure consistent quality and reliability. Assess their technical capabilities, ensuring they have the right equipment, expertise for your part's complexity and tolerances, and experience with the required materials. Verify their quality systems, ideally through certifications like ISO 9001:2015, and understand their inspection processes. Consider their experience and stability, often indicated by years in business, alongside their track record for on-time delivery and overall responsiveness. Finally, evaluate the total value, balancing price with quality, reliability, and service to find a truly reliable partner.
