Proper lathe safety includes preparation, safe work habits, and care after use. Operators must be trained, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and inspect the work area. While running, they should pay attention to signs of problems and control speed. They should also avoid the “red zone,” not touch the part or debris while in motion, […]
Lathe cutters are machines used to cut and shape materials such as metal, plastic, and wood. They come in various sizes and types, including power, precision, and remote lathes. The size of a lathe is expressed numerically and refers to the swing size and maximum allowable length of material. Metalworking lathes have a bed-mounted carriage […]
When choosing a heavy-duty lathe, stability, torque, and tool holder design are important. A sturdy design is needed to hold large, light, or unruly objects, and enough torque is necessary to keep them moving. The design of the rest of the tool is also crucial for durability. Balancing functionality with price and application is key […]
Safety is the top priority when operating a lathe. Check for unsafe conditions, wear safety glasses, read the manual, and match the speed to the job. Secure the workpiece correctly and use sharp tools. Turn off the machine and wait for it to stop before releasing the workpiece. Safety is the first priority when considering […]
Choosing a tabletop lathe depends on the intended projects, accessories, accuracy, durability, and motor adjustability. Consider maintenance, size, style, and configuration, and whether a lathe-mill combination is necessary. Stability, mass, and stand options should also be considered. Inspect used lathes and seek advice from experienced machinists or hobbyists. Table lathes can be modified for CNC […]
A mini lathe can be converted to CNC operation using a kit or table. Plans should be clear and detailed, and retain manual functionality. Conversion plans can vary in complexity, and manufacturers may offer resources. It’s important to understand the skill, time, and cost required. CNC conversion allows for more precise cutting and saves time. […]
When buying a used metalworking lathe, check the engine for burnt components, the lathe bed rails for nicks, and the tool holder assembly for smooth movement. Test the bearings and listen for unusual sounds when the engine is running at maximum and minimum speeds. When attempting to purchase the best used metalworking lathe, it is […]
Lathe faceplates attach blocks of wood to a lathe motor, allowing for easy removal and replacement of fixtures. They are used to turn large blocks of wood into round shapes and must be carefully used to avoid separation or cracking. The size of turnings is limited by the size of the faceplates. Lathe faceplates are […]
A digital readout (DRO) lathe displays measurements along the x or y axis. Simple versions have on/off and zero function buttons, while advanced versions have programmable memory and complex functions. Kits are available to convert existing machines, and displays can be mounted on the machine or a nearby wall. Digital monitors provide accurate measurements and […]
A pen lathe is a small wood lathe used by hobbyists and beginners to shape wood into pens and other small items. It consists of a steel base with a mandrel at either end, and users rely on blocks of wood or plastic to create their items. Workers shape the material by hand using special […]
Properly sharpening lathe tools is crucial for good performance. Tips include using a slow wet grinder, tool holder, protection, and sharpening regularly. Recognize when tools need sharpening and use smooth grinding gestures while ensuring safety measures are taken. Properly sharpening lathe tools is critical to getting the best possible performance out of them. A turning […]
When choosing a lathe project, consider the type and size of the project, the type of lathe, necessary tools, and difficulty level. Wood lathes are best for non-precision projects, while metal lathes are good for detailed or precision work. Choose a project that matches your skill level and find detailed plans beforehand. When choosing a […]
Choosing the best lathe belt depends on factors such as the type and size of the lathe, as well as the materials used in the belt. Kevlar reinforced belts are often considered the best, while wood lathes can use cheaper V-belts. Original manufacturer belts are recommended for metal lathes. You can often choose the best […]
A cue lathe is used to make, repair and maintain cues for table games like pool and snooker. They come in various sizes, from portable to stationary, and can be used to create one-piece or two-piece cues. Stick lathes have a headstock on each end and use a motorized router to shape the wood into […]
Lathe collets hold cylindrical stock in a lathe chuck and are made from various materials, including spring steel. They offer greater accuracy and reduce damage to the workpiece. Collet size is determined by the hole size, and different sizes are used for different stock. Soft metal and nylon collets are available for use with softer […]
When buying a secondhand lathe, research common problems and ask the seller about them. Test the machine for electrical issues, irregularities in function, and wear on the beds. Consider the overall maintenance of the seller’s workspace and tools. Beware of scams. Choosing a secondhand lathe can be a tricky process, especially considering how many poorly […]
Lathe jaws hold the material being turned and can be clamped individually or automatically. Fragile workpieces cannot be clamped due to extreme pressure. Proper clamping is necessary for accurate rotation. Lathes are sized based on chuck diameter and some jaws are designed for hollow pieces. Clothing should not contact the lathe jaws while in motion […]
A wheel winch is a steel cable drum that attaches to a vehicle’s wheel to pull it out of a stuck situation. The winch is attached to a solid object, and as the vehicle drives, the cable winds onto the drum, pulling the vehicle out. The process is time-consuming but faster than seeking help. No […]
A lathe duplicator is a useful tool for woodworkers to create exact duplicates of a design. It saves time and money by using a template and cutters to machine the wood. The duplicator includes a rail, mounting hardware, templates, a tool holder, a wheel, and five types of cutters. It is mounted horizontally on a […]
A lathe shapes raw materials using movable cutting tools. Vertical lathes are used for heavy and bulky materials, and have the same basic parts as horizontal lathes. They can be computer-controlled and used for precision parts. They save space and are preferred by some hobbyists. A lathe is used to shape a rotating piece of […]
