Hans’s SmartLathe SL-36 Journey

Compact Powerhouse for Precision Turn-Mill Projects

Meet Hans: Engineer, Musician & Yo-Yo Master with a Workshop Challenge

When Hans, a German engineer skilled in Linux and mechanical design, wanted to machine custom parts for his musician friends, he faced a familiar problem—limited workshop space. He needed a compact yet versatile turn-mill CNC lathe that could handle complex projects without losing precision or power.

1. A Click That Changed Everything: Discovering the SL-36

While researching CNC lathes online, Hans stumbled upon the SmartLathe SL-36.

• Its compact size and clever design immediately grabbed his attention.

• Equipped with a Y-axis live tooling system and a four-station turret, it promised the flexibility he needed.

Hans wasn’t looking for just the cheapest machine. He wanted a full-service partner: technical support, professional training, and solid after-sales care.

2. From Browser to China: Visiting SmartLathe in Person

To make sure this was the right choice, Hans traveled to China for the first time to see the SL-36 live and meet the team.
We took care of airport pickup, hotel, and meals—Hans remembers,

“Sharing meals with the team felt like hanging out with old friends.”

This hospitality let him focus on testing the machine and soaking in the factory’s advanced setup.

3. Hands-On & Impressed: Testing the SL-36 in Person

At the factory, Hans operated the SL-36 himself.
The precision and smooth operation blew him away.
He said,

“Tool changes were effortless and cutting performance exceeded all expectations.”

Fully confident, Hans confirmed his order right then and there.

4. Talents Beyond Engineering: Meet the Real Hans

During the visit, we learned Hans is more than an engineer:

• A Linux whiz and mechanical expert

• A seriously skilled yo-yo performer (we were impressed!)

• A saxophone player planning to machine parts for musician friends on his new SL-36

5. Getting Up to Speed: Professional Training That Works

We provided hands-on training covering everything from operation to maintenance.
Hans quickly produced his first sample parts and was thrilled with both the training and machine performance.

6. Delivery Done Right: From China to Germany

After training, Hans headed home while we took care of the rest—cleaning, secure packaging, shipping, customs, and taxes.
Hans shared,

“The machine arrived spotless and fit perfectly into my workshop, like it was made just for the space.”

7. More Than a Machine: The Full SmartLathe Experience

Hans’s story shows what sets SmartLathe apart—we’re not just selling machines, but delivering an end-to-end solution:

• Airport pickup and local transfers

• Hotel and dining arrangements

• Factory visits and expert training

• Secure packing, shipping, and delivery

From arrival in China to the moment the machine hums in the workshop, we handle the details so customers can focus on what they love—creating.

8. Want to Hear More?

Hans also sat down for a detailed Q&A interview, sharing his firsthand experience with the SmartLathe SL-36 — from machine capabilities to training and after-sales support.
Watch the full interview videoto get insider insights and tips straight from Hans himself.