If you plan to get ahead in the machine shop business, you need a screw machine. Swiss Screw Machines are the basic tool of many diverse manufacturers of small parts. They are the perfect jobbing tool in today’s world. With the right machine, you can ensure your business thrives or at least keeps pace in this competitive world.
What Are Screw Machines?
Screw machines are a specific type of machinery that originated in the 1800s in Switzerland. Also known as Swiss style or Swiss type screw machines, Swiss screw machines were created to produce swiftly and in large batches, small intricate parts.
Types of Screw Machines
Essentially, you have two basic or general types of Swiss screw machines. These are the automatic cam operated and the CNC. Both have their function and it is not unusual for a combination of the two methods to be employed purposefully in a shop.
- Cam Operated: These involve setting up and taking down that may require a day or two. Although useful in making parts, they make prove to be more costly because of the time lost for set-up.
- CNC Operated: These are sophisticated machines that are governed by computer numerical control (CNC). They have a sliding head as well as fixed bushing. They are multi-axis with numbers ranging from 2 to at least 6. They run with almost no assistance from an operator – a machine control unit and operator. Classically, they have several spindles which allows them to follow multiple tool paths at the same time
What Do They Produce?
Originally, Swiss screw machines were employed to produce intricate and delicate small watch parts. Since then, the market has grown. Today, these tools are used to produce components in many fields. The most common products consist of but are not restricted to the following:
- Screws
- Bolts
- Bushing
- Flywheels
- Pins
- Rivets
- Fasteners
- Fittings studs
They manufacture them for use in the aerospace, dental, medical, and auto industries.
- Why You Need the Technology
If you do not employ a Swiss screw machine in your shop, it is time. If you do is it a cam operated type. While these clearly do provide some advantages, it may be best to look at the potential behind the latest CNC Swiss screw machines. Research and practical application show that the purchase and use of such a versatile tool can help move your shop in directions that will not only be new but also profitable.


