Star Micronics GB Ltd is pleased to announce that from Monday 16 March 2026, we will be operating from our new premises on Paradigm Way, Derby.

Please update your records with our new address from Monday 16 March 2026:

Star Micronics GB Ltd
Unit 2
Paradigm Way
Derby
DE24 9ST

This relocation represents a long-term investment by Star Micronics Co., Ltd. in the UK and Ireland market and reflects our commitment to providing the highest level of customer support. The new facility is 23% larger, with total floor space increasing from 19,580 ft² to 24,050 ft² compared with our previous Raynesway site.

The new headquarters has been designed with our customers in mind, providing improved facilities, greater capacity and an enhanced experience for visitors. The expanded workshop will allow us to further strengthen our PDI and turnkey project capabilities, while increased stockholding capacity for spare parts and consumables will further improve availability and support faster response times.

Customers visiting the new site will benefit from dedicated training areas with upgraded IT equipment and a larger showroom capable of accommodating around six machines for demonstrations and open house events. The dedicated hospitality area and improved meeting facilities will provide a more comfortable environment for customer discussions, training sessions and events.

The new premises also reflect Star Micronics’ ongoing commitment to operating responsibly and supporting a more sustainable future. The building’s environmental credentials include an EPC A rating, solar panels, air source heat pumps and additional EV charging stations, which have been incorporated to improve energy efficiency, reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and support the transition towards lower-emission transport.

Our company number, VAT number, telephone number, email addresses, bank account details, and customer support and accounts contact information will all remain unchanged.

We look forward to welcoming customers, partners and suppliers to our new headquarters from Monday 16 March 2026 and continuing to support your business from our new home in Derby.

The post Star GB unveils new headquarters at Infinity Park Derby appeared first on Star GB.

Addition of new Star sliding head lathes follows increased demand for high-reliability devices, as well as R&D investment to support new product introductions.

Harwin has announced the acquisition of seven new CNC sliding headstock lathes supplied by Star Micronics GB Ltd. The addition of these machines adds significant capacity to Harwin’s high-reliability connector manufacturing capabilities.

Their purchase follows heightened demand for Harwin’s connector ranges – notably Gecko – and an increase in R&D investment by the company.This increased capacity will come into effect from January 2026, when the first two Star SL-7 sliding head lathes are delivered to Harwin’s Portsmouth manufacturing plant. Capacity will further ramp up during the first half of the year, with additional new lathes being added in February, March and April.

“Harwin continues to make significant investments in its UK manufacturing capacity, and the addition of these new machines represents a major milestone in the next phase of our expansion,” said Jon Churchill, Harwin’s Chief Operating Officer. “Star’s high-precision sliding head machines are integral to our HRi product range. By combining this advanced, reliable equipment with our highly skilled workforce, premium raw materials, and innovative structural design features, we can deliver critical components that underpin the exceptional ruggedness and performance of Harwin’s HRi products.”

The investment also strengthens Harwin’s long-standing partnership with Star GB, increasing the company’s total number of Star lathes to 56.

Harwin’s expanded capability is supported by the broad range of Star technology already in use at its Portsmouth site. The facility operates SD-26 Type E and SR-20RIV Type B machines, which provide versatile, high-precision machining across mid-range diameters. These are supported by SL-7 and SR-10J models specialising in very small, accurate component production. This capability is complemented by several SW-12RII models, delivering high-speed twin-platen machining for complex, multi-feature components.

Together, these platforms give Harwin a well-balanced mix of capacities, enabling efficient production of both miniature connector elements and more demanding geometries while maintaining the precision and repeatability required for its high-reliability product range.

“We’re proud to continue our close collaboration with Harwin as they expand their UK manufacturing footprint,” said Stephen Totty, Star GB’s Managing Director. “Our technology is designed to deliver the precision, repeatability, and reliability that Harwin’s interconnects demand and we look forward to working with them into the future.”

This latest phase of investment underscores Harwin’s commitment to maintaining world-class manufacturing in the UK and ensuring rapid, resilient supply for its global customer base. By combining advanced automation with in-house expertise, Harwin continues to strengthen its position as a trusted partner for mission-critical connectivity solutions worldwide.

For further information on this increased capacity and Harwin’s products visit www.harwin.com

About Harwin

Harwin is a manufacturer of high-reliability interconnects suitable for harsh environments and able to withstand extreme vibration, shock and temperature. Datamate, Gecko and M300 product lines have a proven history in aerospace, defence and other safety-critical markets. Other board level solutions include EMC Shielding products, which increase reliability, flexibility and cost savings through the process of automated placement. Industry standard connectors and PCB hardware are also available from Harwin for commercial applications.

For more information, visit www.harwin.com

Harwin | Connect Technology with Confidence.

The post Harwin Significantly Increasing UK Manufacturing Capacity in 2026 appeared first on Star GB.

Star Micronics GB Ltd will showcase the new SP-32 sliding head lathe for the first time in the UK at its annual open house event, taking place from 7 – 9 October 2025.

The SP-32 is the latest addition to Star’s SP Series of sliding head lathes. Following the launch of the SP-23 in 2023, which has proven popular among subcontract manufacturers, the SP-32 expands the series’ capability to handle bar diameters up to 32mm (35mm optional).

Designed for versatility, the SP-32 offers a wide tooling capacity and extensive software functions, making it well-suited to a broad range of sectors including automotive, hydraulic and pneumatic equipment, and general subcontract machining.

The machine is equipped with the FANUC 0i-TF Plus CNC unit, which includes a range of advanced features such as a program data batch input/output function to streamline daily operation. In addition, a new deburring cycle has been added to the Star command system.

Incorporating various technologies to minimise heat generation, the SP-32 includes Star’s innovative thermal displacement correction technology to optimise accuracy, stability and machining performance. The machine is compatible with the latest software developments including Step Cycle Pro chip-breaking technology and Star’s innovative new ECO Mode, an energy saving function that saves power during machine standby.

The SP-32 incorporates a zero-shaped tool post with a 6-station platen on the front and a 6-spindle cross-drilling unit at the rear. Four of the cross-drilling unit’s spindles are cartridge-type positions where a wide variety of tool units can be mounted to suit complex applications. In addition, a 5-spindle sleeve holder (drilling arm) is provided with three positions at 22mm and two positions at 32mm diameter.

The backworking platen is specified with a 5-spindle tool post with driven tool capability as standard, enabling up to four rotating tools for efficient (overlapped) back machining and reduced cycle times.

To maximise flexibility, the SP-32 offers guide bush and non-guide bush capability. The guide bush option ensures high-precision machining of longer parts, while the non-guide bush configuration minimises material remnant length for shorter parts.

Key Features

High functionality

• Zero-shaped tool post with excellent tool capacity
• 6-station turning tool holder (16 mm)
• 5-spindle upper drilling sleeve holder with two large-diameter drilling positions
• 6-spindle cross-drilling unit with four cartridge-type positions
• Step Cycle Pro technology for improved chip control and machining stability

High precision

• Thermal displacement correction via integrated thermal sensors
• Oil mist cooling for power-driven tool gearbox to prevent heat build-up
• Built-in spindle sensors for improved indexing accuracy

Scalability

• Guide bush / non-guide bush capability
• Optional torque-up specification for both main and sub spindles

The SP-32 reinforces Star’s ongoing commitment to innovation in sliding head technology, providing UK manufacturers with a large capacity, high-quality entry level sliding head lathe.

The open house event will take place from 7 – 9 October 2025 at Star GB’s Technology Centre in Derby. Registration is via the company’s website: www.stargb.com/open; email: marketing@stargb.com or telephone: 01332 864455.

The post Star GB to debut new SP-32 sliding head lathe at October open house appeared first on Star GB.

Since the original release of the SR-20RIV in 2012, over 2,400 machines have been sold worldwide, thanks to its proven reliability and versatility. The new Type E introduces enhanced functionality with a customer-requested B-axis tool post capable of simultaneous 4-axis control, enabling more complex machining tasks including 3D milling.

UK availability is scheduled from September 2025.

Key Features of the SR-20RIV Type E:

B-axis Control with 4-axis Simultaneous Machining
The powered tool unit features a B-axis with NC-programmable angle control, allowing for precise and flexible multi-angle machining operations.

High-Rigidity Tool Post with Cross Guide Design
The front-end gang-type tool post incorporates Star’s proprietary uniform load cross guide structure. This design reduces moment load on the guide rails during cutting, improving rigidity and enabling long-term stable operation.

Guide Bush / Non-Guide Bush Conversion
The machine can be switched between guide bush and non-guide bush configurations depending on part length. This optimises material use: guide bush mode offers support for long parts, while non-guide bush mode minimises bar remnants for short components, reducing waste and cost.

Extensive Tooling Options
With capacity for up to 41 tools on a 27-position station, the Type E supports a wide range of complex and multi-process machining applications.

The post Star GB to Launch New SR-20RIV Type E Sliding Head Lathe appeared first on Star GB.

This year is the 20th anniversary of the incredible snowflake appeal and the campaign has raised a record-breaking £434,000 with 512 snowflakes sponsored in 2024, bringing the total since the campaign began to over £2.9 million!

With world-renowned specialists at Sheffield Children’s Hospital leading their field of healthcare, patients travel from across the world for treatment. To support this specialist care, this year’s Snowflake appeal will help fund the construction of the new National Centre for Child Health Technology.

Want to support Sheffield Children’s Hospital this Christmas? Make a donation here: www.tchc.org.uk/donate

The post Star GB sponsors a snowflake for Sheffield Children’s Hospital appeared first on Star GB.

UK premiere of the SB-20RII sliding head lathe

After attracting significant interest at recent shows in Chicago (IMTS) and Stuttgart (AMB), the SB-20RII will make its UK debut. As Star’s most popular machine series, with over 27,000 SB models sold globally, the SB-20RII is expected to be popular with manufacturers in the UK and Ireland.

The SB-20RII offers various improvements to further enhance performance, versatility and ergonomics. This includes additional tool stations, increased power, higher spindle speeds, advanced control features, and improved accuracy. Despite its added capabilities, such as the ability to process components up to 25.4mm in diameter, the SB-20RII has a 10% smaller footprint than the best-selling SB-20R Type G.

Offering a total of 7 axes, the main spindle platen of the SB-20RII includes 6 turning tools, two fixed ER-16 spindles for cross-working, plus a further three modular cross power-driven stations that accept a variety of cartridge attachments. The flexibility of the SB-20RII is further enhanced by its ability to switch between guide bush mode and non-guide bush mode.

Incorporating various technologies to minimise heat generation, the SB-20RII includes Star’s innovative thermal displacement correction technology to optimise accuracy, stability and machining performance. The machine is equipped with Star’s innovative new ECO mode and is compatible with the latest developments including Step Cycle Pro chip-breaking technology, last part completion mode and Easy Edit programming utility.

A gamechanger for the fixed head market

Following a successful preview at last year’s open house event, Star GB will again showcase the SK-51 Type A fixed headstock lathe. This 2-inch bar capacity slant-bed machine is equipped with twin 12-station turrets, offering 7.5kW powered driven tools on every station. It offers 5,000rpm on the main and sub spindles, and a 640mm Z-axis stroke length on both turrets.

The machines features the advanced FANUC iHMI control system with a 15-inch touchscreen that offers conversational programming dialogue, free figure contour programming and a fixed phrase insert function for the configuration of individual blocks of code to drop into the final program. Toolpath simulation is also built into the control.

Versatile manufacturing solutions

In addition to the SB-20RII and SK-51 Type A, Star GB will be showcasing a range of its most popular models, including;

SD-26 Type E – A new model capable of ⌀26mm machining, developed to give engineers the ultimate mill-turn solution for complex components. The Type E variant offers a programmable B1 head with 4 front and 4 rear facing tools, plus an additional 6 cartridge positions for various attachments.

SR-32JIII Type B – The latest 32mm capacity model within the popular SR series, delivering a range of enhancements including improved rigidity, upgraded swarf clearance, refined ergonomics, Step Cycle Pro chip-breaking technology and the inclusion of a sub-spindle flush pump as standard.

SP-23 – A new model capable of 1-inch machining, developed to optimise versatility and performance whilst maintaining a modest footprint. The machine is equipped with an 8-station front turning platen and a 7-spindle cross-drilling inner tool post, on which a wide variety of tooling attachments can be mounted.

SB-16III – Superseding the SB-16II, this upgraded model utilises the latest generation FANUC 0i-TF Plus CNC control system. The machine’s main spindle platen includes five turning tools, a three-spindle cross drilling unit, and a four-station drilling arm.

SL-10 – Accuracy, efficiency and versatility within an ultra-compact footprint. The SL-10 offers 6 turning tools on the main side and up to 5 cross-working tool positions, of which 4 tool positions are available for cartridge attachments such as thread whirling, slotting, gear hobbing, angled drilling and polygon units.

Advanced Chip Management with Step Cycle Pro

The open house will also showcase Star’s Step Cycle Pro (SCP) technology, which tackles the challenges of stringy swarf when machining difficult-to-chip materials.

The system delivers its highly effective ‘air-cut’ chip-breaking operation by oscillating the axis in synchronisation with the spindle rotation cycle and can be used simultaneously on both the main and sub-spindles. This oscillation-cutting method increases production efficiency by eliminating machine stoppages related to swarf entanglement and enhances tool life by reducing the temperature of the tip whilst in operation.

Step Cycle Pro offers a dedicated interface on the FANUC CNC system that allows engineers to easily select the ideal program conditions and chip length for the application. It automatically adjusts the actual feed rate when the function is enabled to ensure minimal effect on cycle times and enables maximum productivity to be achieved.

Ancillary solutions for seamless automation

Visitors will see the latest developments in barfeed technology including the FMB Turbo RS 3-38. This model features the innovative RS technology, connecting the barfeed directly to the lathe spindle by a moving guide module. By eliminating the unsupported telescopic area between the barfeed and lathe, this offers improved stability for both long and short bar stock lengths. Also on show will be the LNS QLS 65, a feature-packed bar loader available in 1.3m and 1.6m lengths.

A comprehensive range of Star’s technical partners will also exhibit their latest developments including tooling, software, parts handling, optical measurement, high-pressure coolant, mist extraction, fire suppression and more.

Product, process and industry knowledge

Star GB’s applications, service and sales team will be on hand to share their technical knowledge, giving existing and prospective users advice on identifying the ideal solution to their requirements and maximising their return on investment. Visitors will be welcome to discuss future investment plans, technical drawings, and the various schemes and finance options available to make upgrading their equipment even more affordable.

Star GB’s Technology Centre is located in Derby alongside the Rolls-Royce factory on Raynesway and is easily accessible from the A52 and the M1 with dedicated parking. The event has an open invitation to all UK & Ireland manufacturers, opening at 9:00am and closing at 5:00pm each day from Tuesday 19th November through to Thursday 21st November. Refreshments will be provided for all attendees, including a hog roast lunch served each day from 12:30pm with a vegetarian alternative available.

Registration is online via the company’s website: www.stargb.com/open; email: marketing@stargb.com or telephone: 01332 864455.

The post Star GB to host UK premiere of new sliding head lathe at open house event appeared first on Star GB.

The latest machinery developments

Following its worldwide debut at EMO Hannover, the new SP-23 sliding head lathe will be demonstrated for the first time at a UK manufacturing exhibition. An entirely new model capable of 1-inch machining, the SP Series has been developed by Star to deliver outstanding versatility and performance within a modest footprint.

The SP-23 is equipped with an 8-station front turning platen and a 7-spindle cross drilling inner tool post, on which a wide variety of tooling attachments can be mounted with five cartridge positions available. The machine features five drilling stations on the front and a 4-station back working platen with power tool capability.

Another key development within the Star portfolio, the new SD-26 Type E occupies the middle ground between the supplier’s 20mm and 32mm bar diameter ranges. Capable of processing ⌀26mm material, the machine offers a programmable B1 head with four front and four rear facing tool positions, plus an additional six cartridge positions for various attachments.

Superseding the popular SB-16II Type E, the upgraded third-generation SB-16III model utilises the latest generation FANUC 0i-TF Plus CNC control system. It includes Star’s renowned dovetail structure for the Y-axis and features a fully programmable C-axis on both the main and sub spindles. The main spindle platen includes six turning tools, two fixed high-speed ER11 spindles for cross working, plus a further three modular cross power-driven stations that can accept a variety of cartridge attachments.

In addition, Star GB will be demonstrating a range of popular models up to 42mm bar capacity including the SX-38 Type A, SR-32JIII Type B, SR-20RIV Type B, SR-20JII Type B, and the SL-10.

Single source solutions

As the official UK agent for FMB Machinery, Star GB will showcase the latest developments in barfeed technology including FMB’s Turbo RS 4-45 and Turbo RS 3-38 automatic bar feeders.

These latest-generation bar feeders with the innovative RS technology are connected to the lathe spindle by a moving guide module, eliminating the unsupported telescopic area between the barfeed and lathe. This offers improved support for both long and short bar stock lengths, enhancing stability and reducing the risk of bar vibrations or deflections during the machining process.

Supporting its technical suppliers, Star GB will also demonstrate high-pressure coolant solutions developed by Pumps & Equipment (Warwick) Ltd (stand 18-12), mist extraction technology from Filtration Service Engineering, and fire suppression systems designed by Firetrace Ltd (stand 20-403). As the sole UK agent for JBS, its compensating guide bush systems will also be on show on Star GB’s stand.

Smart software development

Celebrating a two-year milestone since the launch of its popular Step Cycle Pro technology at MACH 2022, Star’s innovative chip-breaking solution has been hugely successful with engineers looking to overcome the challenges presented by stringy swarf when processing challenging materials.

Step Cycle Pro operates by implementing an ‘air-cut’ chip-breaking method, which involves a synchronised oscillation of the machine’s axis with the spindle’s rotational cycle. This advanced feature can be applied to all spindles concurrently, increasing production efficiency by eliminating machine stoppages related to swarf entanglement.

Through ongoing development, Step Cycle Pro technology is now available throughout most of the Star machine range and will be available for live demonstrations at the show.

Star’s new ECO mode, an energy saving function with a dedicated interface that saves power during machine standby, will be present on various machines. The software offers customisable options to reduce power usage during idle time by deactivating non-essential systems, motors, pumps, and lighting.

With a focus on industry 4.0 smart manufacturing, each machine on Star’s booth will be linked to its SMOOSS-I remote monitoring system. The software enables users to remotely monitor machine status, part count, production rate and history via a smart phone, tablet or PC. It can also monitor other Fanuc CNC machine tools equipped with FOCAS software.

The popular NC Assist programming software will also be on display with Star’s engineers showing how quickly and efficiently CNC programs can be generated via its simple conversational interface.

A unique learning opportunity

The exhibition presents a unique learning opportunity for both existing and prospective users of Star sliding head lathe technology, empowering them with new methods of overcoming their unique manufacturing challenges. On Star GB’s stand throughout the week will be its applications, service, sales and marketing teams to give visitors an introduction to Star technology and offer an insight into the productivity enhancements its solutions can provide.

Alec Warner, Operations Manager for Star GB says: “The MACH Exhibition gives us the ideal platform to demonstrate our solutions as demand for automation, unmanned operation and more complex applications increases. This year we’re showcasing a range of entry-level machines all the way up to our highest specification models, demonstrating how every application has a bespoke, cost-effective solution.”

“The live machining demonstrations, coupled with the knowledge and insight of our engineering team, creates an interactive experience for visitors and allows them to explore the full potential of Star technology. Our emphasis on customer support is what sets us apart, so we encourage visitors to come get to know our team and see our machines in action.”

Star GB will be located in hall 20 on stand 130 and will be pleased to welcome all visitors with an interest in manufacturing. Registration for MACH 2024 is via its portal at www.machexhibition.com.

The post The stars of the show: The future of sliding head lathe solutions to be demonstrated at MACH Exhibition 2024 appeared first on Star GB.

Star Micronics GB is proud to be a part of The Children’s Hospital Charity’s ‘Sponsor a Snowflake’ appeal in support of Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust. The initiative brings people together with a shared goal to change the lives of children and their families, with an award-winning snowflake display at sites across South Yorkshire.

The money raised helps to support specialist treatments from head to toe, by funding life-saving equipment, new facilities, a comfortable environment and vital research, which changes paediatric care for thousands of children from across the world.

The money raised from this year’s snowflakes will go to where it is needed the most at Sheffield Children’s Hospital – following the construction of a new helipad for the hospital’s emergency department with the funds raised from last year’s appeal.

The post Star GB is proud to ‘Sponsor a Snowflake’ appeared first on Star GB.

Market-leading sliding head lathe supplier, Star GB, will host its annual open house event from 7-9 November 2023 at its Technology Centre in Derby.

The educational event will be packed with the latest technology from Star and its technical partners, with machining demonstrations across its portfolio and the UK premiere of the new SP-23 sliding head lathe following its worldwide debut at EMO Hannover.

UK premiere of the SP-23

Following unprecedented levels of interest at the EMO exhibition, the highly-anticipated SP-23 is expected to be popular amongst UK manufacturers. An entirely new model capable of 1-inch machining, the SP Series has been developed by Star to deliver outstanding versatility and performance within a modest footprint.

The SP-23 is equipped with an 8-station front turning platen and a 7-spindle cross drilling inner tool post, on which a wide variety of tooling attachments can be mounted with 5 cartridge positions available. The machine features 5 drilling stations on the front and a 4-station backworking platen with power tool capability.

Incorporating various technologies to minimise heat generation, the SP-23 includes Star’s innovative thermal displacement correction technology to optimise accuracy, stability and machining performance. The machine is compatible with the latest software developments including Step Cycle Pro chip-breaking technology option and features Star’s innovative new ECO mode, an energy saving function with a dedicated interface that saves power during machine standby.

Versatile manufacturing solutions

Showcasing the most diverse range of machines ever to be displayed at its open house event, Star GB will be displaying the latest and most popular models up to 42mm diameter bar capacity. In addition to the SP-23, the machinery portfolio will include the new SD-26 Type E, ST-38, SX-38 Type A, SR-32JIII Type B, SR-20RIV Type B and SL-10 sliding head lathes.

Star GB will also be previewing its latest fixed headstock lathe, the SK-51 Type A. This 2-inch bar capacity slant-bed machine is equipped with twin 12-station turrets and includes the Fanuc iHMI control system. This advanced CNC system features conversational programming dialogue, free figure contour programming, fixed phrase insert function and 3D machining simulation.

Cutting-edge chip management

Several machines at the event will be demonstrating Star’s cutting-edge development in swarf management. Step Cycle Pro (SCP) is the company’s latest breakthrough to combat the challenges presented by stringy swarf when processing difficult-to-chip materials such as aluminium, Inconel, stainless steel, copper and plastics.

The system delivers its highly effective ‘air-cut’ chip-breaking operation by oscillating the axis in synchronisation with the spindle rotation cycle and can be used simultaneously on both the main and sub spindles. This oscillation cutting method increases production efficiency by eliminating machine stoppages related to swarf entanglement and enhances tool life by reducing the temperature of the tip whilst in operation.

Step Cycle Pro offers a dedicated interface on the FANUC CNC system that allows engineers to easily select the ideal program conditions and chip length for the application. It automatically adjusts the actual feed rate when the function is enabled to ensure minimal effect on cycle times and enables maximum productivity to be achieved.

The latest ancillary solutions

As the official UK agent for FMB Machinery, the open house gives visitors the opportunity to see the latest developments in barfeed technology including FMB’s Turbo RS 4-45, Turbo RS 3-38, Turbo RS 2-20 and SL 80 V short bar loader.

These latest-generation bar feeders with the innovative RS technology are connected to the lathe spindle by a moving guide module, eliminating the unsupported telescopic area between the barfeed and lathe. This offers improved support for both long and short bar stock lengths, enhancing stability and reducing the risk of bar vibrations or deflections during the machining process.

RS technology also increases efficiency when converting from guide bush to non-guide bush mode as the carriage remains static and no switching device is necessary. The bar feeders offer best-in-class rigidity and vibration damping characteristics due to an extruded aluminium base, and easier maintenance through a simplified design with fewer components.

The popular NC Assist programming software will be on display with Star’s engineers showing how quickly and efficiently CNC programs can be generated via its simple conversational interface. A range of Star’s technical partners will also be exhibiting their latest developments including tooling, software, in-process measurement, high-pressure coolant, mist extraction, fire suppression and more.

Product, process and industry knowledge

Star GB’s applications, service and sales team will be on hand to share their technical knowledge, giving existing and prospective users advice on identifying the ideal solution to their requirements and maximising their return on investment. Visitors will be welcome to discuss future investment plans, technical drawings, and the various schemes and finance options available to make upgrading their equipment even more affordable.

Star GB’s Technology Centre is located in Derby alongside the Rolls-Royce factory on Raynesway and is easily accessible from the A52 and the M1 with dedicated parking. The event has an open invitation to all UK & Ireland manufacturers, opening at 9:00am and closing at 5:00pm each day from Tuesday 7^th November through to Thursday 9^th November. Refreshments and lunches will be provided for all attendees.

Registration is online via the company’s website: www.stargb.com/open; email: marketing@stargb.com or telephone: 01332 864455.

The post Star GB open house to host UK premiere of new sliding head lathe from 7-9 November 2023 appeared first on Star GB.

After being officially unveiled at the AMB Stuttgart show in September, Star GB brought a prototype model of its brand-new SD-26 sliding head machine to its open house in November so UK customers could take a closer look. Dave Tudor reports.

Supported by 12 technical partners – J&S Engineering, Wogaard, Filtermist, Filtration Service Engineering, Floyd Automatic, Ceratizit, Firetrace, SolidCAM, Arno, LNS Europe, Trent Oil Lubricants and Renishaw – Star GB’s November open house event clearly generated much interest in the industry. Representatives from 75 companies attended with Star taking double digit orders during its three-day duration.

Technical partners aside, there was plenty of technology on show from the host, particularly on the software side. This included the latest versions of its NC Assist CNC template-based program editor and the Star Monitoring and Operator Support System (SMOOSS-i) which facilitates remote machine status monitoring via smartphone, tablet or PC.

Also, being demonstrated on several machine models was Step Cycle Pro (SCP), Star’s swarf management system designed to combat the challenges of stringy swarf produced when machining difficult to chip materials such as stainless steel, aluminium, copper and Inconel.

SCP can be used on the main, sub, and any live tool spindle simultaneously and is centred around an ‘air cut’ chip breaking process driven by oscillation of the axis in synchronisation with the spindle rotation cycle.

But undoubtedly it was the new 9-axis (five main spindle, four sub) SD-26 Swiss type automatic lathe that drew the most attention. On show was the Type S variant, but there are actually three other models in the series – Type G, Type E and Type C.

This was the SD-26’s first showing in the UK. Capable of tackling the most complex of machining tasks and with a wealth of features such as twin programmable B-axis heads (Type S), the 26mm diameter capacity machine is ideal for manufacturers that work regularly with 1 inch diameter bar. With the lion’s share of Star machines covering the 20mm to 32mm bar diameter range, the new addition occupies that middle ground perfectly.

Spot the difference

Let’s outline the major differences between the four SD-26 types:

The SD-26 Type S model is the highest specification machine with twin programmable B-axis heads: B1 has four front and four rear tools and B2 provides an interchangeable cartridge station which can accept twin mill/drill spindles for a total of six spindles.

These can be used for machining angular features or for housing a double threading whirling attachment for complex bone screw manufacturing for example. And, with two separate heads, two different bone screws forms and leads can be produced on the same component as part of the same machining process. Star has high hopes for the SD-26 in medical applications.

Alternatively, a twin sleeve holder for high-speed electronic spindles can be incorporated, enabling complex 3D 5-axis profile milling.

But not everyone will need twin B-axis heads of course, so while the other three SD-26 variants have progressively ‘lower’ specifications, this certainly doesn’t detract from their usefulness in real-world machining applications.

Type G doesn’t have dual B-axis capabilities but instead it features a programmable 5-axis simultaneous B1 head with four front and four rear facing tools as well as an additional two cartridge positions for various attachments.

Type E is the same specification as Type G but with a lower spec FANUC 32iB CNC for applications that don’t require 5-axis profiling capability. Last but by no means least, Type C replicates the Type E specification but with FANUC 0iTF CNC and a manual B-axis head. It features the same number of tools as the S, G, and E types but at a lower price point.

Types S and G are simultaneous 5-axis with FANUC F31iB5 CNC; and Type E and C are 4+1-axis. Type C is also equipped with an angle adjustable swivel unit.

Despite their operational differences, all models ship with many common features across the entire range such as: guide bush/non-guide bush capability; high-speed/high-power spindles (main- and sub- 10,000rpm/7.5kW/5.5kW); high-pressure coolant manifolds; up to 10 back-working tools; 100mm deep hole drilling capability; and up to 154mm maximum part length for front ejection.

Machine highlights

“One of the SD-26s highlights is undoubtedly its tool holding capacity,” explained applications manager Phil Bellamy. “40 tools can be accommodated in total with much of the extra room integrated into the back-working aspects of the machine which not only helps keep the overall footprint to a minimum but also allows excellent front-end access for swift changeovers and automation. A really useful feature is the addition of two independent dedicated turning tool holders for back-working making a total of ten stations.”

At 2m, the SD-26 is quite a tall machine but this helps accommodate the extensive tooling capacity available in the machining envelope. Everything is conveniently laid out and within easy reach. The overall dimensions are a compact 2.55m (W) x 1.3m (D) x 2m (H) so this is designed with a small footprint to squeeze into often space-strapped shop floors. The overall weight is a reassuring 3,600kg.

To guarantee optimal and consistent operation whatever the conditions, temperature sensors are strategically placed on sections of the machine body casting. This offers flexible thermal displacement correction based on real-time thermal expansion data fed back from these sensors.

Get in early

It’s very early days for the SD-26 sliding head machine but despite the fact that the open house machine model was only a prototype and production machines aren’t expected until April/May 2023, Star GB has already taken an order for the new addition.

And that accolade goes to Hertford-based precision subcontractor Qualiturn Products Ltd. The deal was actually sealed at the IMTS show in Chicago last September. Managing director Nick Groom takes up the story.

“I didn’t attend the show personally but my production director Steve Aulton saw the SD-26 on the Star stand and placed the order,” he affirmed. “We’ll confirm the full configuration soon but we opted for the Type S model.

“Technically this machine just make sense, offering so many options and configurations,” he added. “I am buying for solutions and options across a variety of sectors but also, importantly, to demonstrate to our customers that we are continuing to invest in the very latest equipment and technology available.

“We’ve purchased many Star machines over the years and from both a technical and service perspective I’ve never been let down so I’m more than happy to continue. With its 26mm capacity, the SD-26 will sit perfectly between our SR-20 and SR-32 machines.”

Qualiturn will take delivery of its new SD-26 mid-2023.

Continued investment in the face of adversity

Star GB’s managing director Steve Totty was naturally delighted with the success of the open house: “This was an exceptionally well-attended event and it effectively continued the momentum of the MACH exhibition last year, demonstrating just how buoyant the manufacturing industry is throughout Britain and Ireland,” he commented.

“While the world economy continues to face real challenges, the visitors we welcomed to our Derby facility showed incredible positivity with ambitious plans to continue investing in the future of their businesses.

“I’d like to personally thank everyone who supported the open house – the visitors who travelled from near and far to join us, our technical partners who showcased their latest developments and the Star team who worked tirelessly to make the event a success.

“After a record year, we look forward to the exciting times ahead in 2023 and we are proud to continue supporting our customers as a market leader in sliding head lathe technology.”

Star GB
www.stargb.com

Qualiturn Products
www.qualiturn.co.uk

Production Engineering Solutions
www.pesmedia.com

Author
Dave Tudor

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