Lathe tool posts hold lathe tools to the carriage. Multi-tool, quick-change, and indexable posts can hold multiple tools, reducing setup time. Rear tool holders allow for front and rear tool sets. Tool posts can be removed for accessibility or replaced with optional tools.
A lathe tool post is a special clamping device that rigidly holds the lathe tool or hardware to the lathe carriage. A basic lathe tool holder is designed to hold a turning or facing tool. More typically, a lathe tool holder might hold one or more tools, depending on the configuration of the lathe.
If lathe tools are frequently swapped in and out, a single tool post could become a hindrance. Often, a single tool post is replaced by a multi-tool post, quick-change tool post, or indexable post tool. Each of these post types can contain two or more tools. Having a tool holder that can hold multiple tools could reduce operator setup and/or changeover time between lathe jobs.
To use a multi-tool post, the lathe operator locks the desired tool into place, then locates the centerline of the spindle with the cutting edge of the tool. The operator may need several attempts to adjust the holder and tooling until the lathe tooling is properly centered. After it is centered and locked, the turning or facing tools should remain with the correct centerline orientation while the new tools, also locked by the same post, are brought into the cutting position.
An indexable toolholder allows the operator to unclamp, index and re-clamp tooling without disturbing the position of the tooling relative to the centerline of the lathe. A quick change tool holder can be easily removed and replaced on the lathe. These are especially useful when tooling requirements exceed the tool capacity of a single pile. This way, a set of utensils can be prepared in advance and replaced as needed.
Furthermore, the lathes can also be equipped with a rear tool holder. To use a rear tool holder, usually the cutting edge of the tool faces down relative to the tool on the front tool holder. This allows the operator to use both front and rear tool sets while turning the lathe in the same direction.
Sometimes tool posts can be removed from the lathe altogether. This is done for accessibility or to replace them with optional tools. Accessories for inside/outside diameter (ID/OD) grinding or milling are sometimes used in place of a lathe tool holder.
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