USED CITIZEN L20VIII – 2005
The CITIZEN L20VIII is a highly capable Swiss-type CNC automatic lathe designed for manufacturers requiring precision machining, high-volume production, and exceptional repeatability. Built by Citizen Machinery, a global leader in Swiss turning technology, the L20VIII combines advanced sliding headstock design, multi-axis machining capability, and live tooling functionality to produce complex components efficiently and accurately.
The 2005 Citizen L20VIII remains a popular choice in the used CNC machine market because of its proven reliability, compact footprint, and ability to manufacture intricate parts in a single setup. The machine was engineered to handle demanding production environments where accuracy, productivity, and consistency are essential. Utilizing a sliding headstock system with guide bushing support, the L20VIII minimizes material deflection during machining, making it particularly effective for producing long, slender, and complex parts.
One of the major advantages of the Citizen L20VIII is its ability to perform multiple operations simultaneously. The machine supports turning, milling, drilling, tapping, threading, cross-drilling, contouring, and secondary spindle operations within a single cycle. This capability significantly reduces cycle times, minimizes part handling, and improves overall manufacturing efficiency. Manufacturers can often complete finished components without requiring secondary machining operations.
With a maximum bar capacity of approximately 20 mm, the L20VIII is ideal for precision components used in industries such as medical device manufacturing, aerospace, defense, electronics, telecommunications, automotive, fluid power, and industrial automation. The machine is capable of processing stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, brass, copper, plastics, and other specialty materials while maintaining exceptional dimensional accuracy.
The machine’s advanced CNC control system, multiple tool stations, and live tooling capabilities allow manufacturers to produce highly complex parts while maintaining tight tolerances over long production runs. Even years after its introduction, the Citizen L20VIII continues to be recognized for its durability, productivity, and machining versatility.
For manufacturers seeking a proven Swiss-type CNC lathe capable of delivering precision and efficiency at a lower investment cost than a new machine, the 2005 Citizen L20VIII remains an outstanding option in the used machinery marketplace.
CITIZEN L20VIII – AXIS
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Swiss-Type CNC Automatic Lathe |
| Axis Configuration | 8-Axis |
| Main Spindle Axes | X1, Y1, Z1, C1 |
| Sub Spindle Axes | X2, Z2, C2 |
| Additional Axis | B-Axis Live Tooling |
| Simultaneous Axis Machining | Yes |
CITIZEN L20VIII – AXIS TRAVELS / WORK ENVELOPE
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Bar Capacity | 20 mm |
| Maximum Machining Length | 200 mm |
| Main Spindle Travel | Programmable |
| Sub Spindle Travel | Programmable |
| Guide Bushing Operation | Standard |
| Long Part Machining Capability | Excellent |
CITIZEN L20VIII – CAPACITY / TABLE
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Bar Diameter | 20 mm |
| Main Spindle Capacity | 20 mm |
| Sub Spindle Capacity | 20 mm |
| Production Type | High-Volume Precision Manufacturing |
| Automation Compatibility | Yes |
| Lights-Out Manufacturing | Supported |
CITIZEN L20VIII – SPINDLE
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM |
| Sub Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM |
| Main Spindle Motor | AC Servo |
| Sub Spindle Motor | AC Servo |
| C-Axis Positioning | Standard |
| Spindle Configuration | Dual Spindle |
CITIZEN L20VIII – TOOL CHANGER
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Tool Positions | Up to 25 |
| Live Tool Stations | Multiple |
| End Working Capability | Yes |
| Cross Machining Capability | Yes |
| Simultaneous Tool Operations | Supported |
| Tool Selection | Automatic |
CITIZEN L20VIII – CONTROL SYSTEM
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CNC Control | Mitsubishi Meldas |
| Programming Format | G-Code |
| Conversational Programming | Available |
| Memory Capacity | Expanded |
| Networking Capability | Available |
| High-Speed Processing | Yes |
CITIZEN L20VIII – COOLANT / DUST / WATER MANAGEMENT
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Flood Coolant System | Standard |
| High Pressure Coolant | Optional |
| Through Tool Coolant | Available |
| Coolant Filtration | Standard |
| Mist Collector Compatibility | Available |
| Chip Conveyor Compatibility | Available |
CITIZEN L20VIII – POWER REQUIREMENTS
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 220V / 380V / 480V |
| Electrical Requirement | 3 Phase |
| Connected Load | Approx. 15 kVA |
| Air Supply Requirement | Shop Air Required |
CITIZEN L20VIII – DIMENSIONS
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | Approx. 95 in |
| Width | Approx. 55 in |
| Height | Approx. 72 in |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 6,800 lbs |
CITIZEN L20VIII – GENERAL INFORMATION
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Citizen Machinery |
| Model | L20VIII |
| Year | 2005 |
| Machine Category | Swiss-Type CNC Lathe |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Primary Application | Precision Turning & Milling |
| Typical Production | High-Volume Manufacturing |
INDUSTRIES THAT USE CITIZEN L20VIII
The Citizen L20VIII is widely utilized by manufacturers operating in industries where precision, consistency, and efficiency are critical. Medical device manufacturers commonly use the machine to produce bone screws, surgical instruments, dental implant components, catheter fittings, orthopedic hardware, and miniature medical connectors. The machine’s Swiss-type design ensures the accuracy required for these highly regulated applications.
Aerospace companies rely on the L20VIII for machining precision fasteners, hydraulic fittings, fuel system components, sensor housings, actuator parts, and aerospace connectors. Its ability to process difficult materials while maintaining tight tolerances makes it a valuable production platform for aerospace suppliers.
Electronics and telecommunications manufacturers frequently utilize the machine to produce miniature connectors, communication hardware, fiber optic components, electronic terminals, and semiconductor equipment parts. The machine’s high-speed production capabilities support large-scale manufacturing requirements while maintaining exceptional consistency.
Additional industries include defense, automotive, fluid power, industrial automation, instrumentation, energy production, and contract precision machining. The flexibility of the Citizen L20VIII allows manufacturers to efficiently produce a wide variety of components while maintaining excellent quality standards.
Its ability to combine multiple machining operations into a single setup helps reduce production costs and improve overall manufacturing efficiency across numerous industries.
TYPICAL PARTS CITIZEN L20VIII CAN PRODUCE
The Citizen L20VIII is capable of producing a broad range of precision-machined components. Medical applications include surgical screws, implant hardware, dental components, orthopedic devices, catheter fittings, and miniature surgical instruments. The machine’s ability to maintain exceptional dimensional control makes it highly suitable for medical manufacturing.
Aerospace manufacturers commonly use the machine to produce hydraulic fittings, fuel system components, precision fasteners, actuator hardware, sensor housings, and aerospace-grade connectors. Multi-axis machining capabilities allow complex geometries to be completed efficiently in a single cycle.
Electronics manufacturers produce fiber optic fittings, miniature communication connectors, terminals, semiconductor equipment parts, and precision electronic hardware. Live tooling capabilities enable milling, drilling, and tapping operations to be completed without secondary setups.
Other applications include valve stems, pneumatic fittings, fluid control components, instrumentation hardware, automation components, threaded shafts, electrical connectors, and custom-engineered precision products. The machine’s ability to process stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, brass, copper, plastics, and specialty alloys significantly expands its manufacturing capabilities.
WHY CHOOSE CITIZEN L20VIII
The Citizen L20VIII remains one of the most respected Swiss-type CNC lathes because of its combination of precision, flexibility, and production efficiency. One of its primary strengths is the sliding headstock design, which supports material directly at the cutting point and significantly reduces workpiece deflection. This results in tighter tolerances, superior surface finishes, and improved tool life.
The machine’s multi-axis capability allows manufacturers to perform turning, milling, drilling, and secondary spindle operations simultaneously. This reduces cycle times and minimizes the need for secondary machining processes, leading to greater productivity and lower labor costs.
Citizen machines are also known for their durability and reliability. Many L20VIII machines continue operating successfully in demanding production environments years after their original installation. This long service life contributes significantly to the machine’s value in the used CNC market.
The machine’s versatility further enhances its appeal. Whether producing medical implants, aerospace hardware, electronic connectors, or industrial automation components, the L20VIII delivers consistent performance across a wide range of applications.
For manufacturers seeking dependable Swiss machining technology, advanced capabilities, and long-term production value, the Citizen L20VIII remains an excellent investment.
WHY BUY USED CITIZEN L20VIII
Purchasing a used Citizen L20VIII provides manufacturers with access to advanced Swiss machining technology at a fraction of the cost of a new machine. Swiss-type CNC lathes represent a significant capital investment, making the used equipment market an attractive option for businesses looking to expand capabilities while managing budgets effectively.
The L20VIII has earned a reputation for reliability, precision, and durability. Machines that have been properly maintained often continue producing high-quality components for many years, providing excellent long-term value and return on investment.
Many used machines include valuable accessories such as bar feeders, high-pressure coolant systems, chip conveyors, mist collectors, tooling packages, and automation interfaces. These additional features can substantially increase productivity while reducing future capital expenditures.
Another major advantage is availability. New Swiss machines often require lengthy delivery schedules, whereas used machines can frequently be delivered and installed much faster. This allows manufacturers to respond quickly to increasing production demands and customer requirements.
For companies seeking proven Swiss machining performance, lower acquisition costs, and dependable production capabilities, a used Citizen L20VIII offers exceptional value.
HOW MUCH DOES A USED CITIZEN L20VIII COST?
The cost of a used Citizen L20VIII depends on several factors including machine condition, spindle hours, maintenance history, tooling inventory, installed options, and overall market demand. Machines with documented maintenance records, lower operating hours, and strong service histories generally command higher resale values due to their reduced operational risk.
Optional equipment such as bar feeders, high-pressure coolant systems, mist collectors, chip conveyors, automation packages, tooling inventories, and software upgrades can significantly influence machine pricing. Buyers often place greater value on machines that are fully equipped and production-ready.
Swiss-type CNC lathes continue to be in high demand across medical, aerospace, electronics, defense, and precision engineering industries. This ongoing demand helps maintain strong resale values for reliable machines such as the Citizen L20VIII.
In addition to the purchase price, buyers should consider transportation, rigging, installation, tooling, operator training, and facility preparation costs. These additional expenses should be evaluated alongside the machine’s productivity benefits and manufacturing capabilities.
Compared to purchasing a new Swiss-type CNC lathe, a used 2005 Citizen L20VIII can provide substantial cost savings while still delivering exceptional precision, advanced machining flexibility, and reliable high-volume production performance. For manufacturers seeking a proven Swiss machining platform, the Citizen L20VIII remains one of the strongest values available in the used CNC machinery market.
