The Wood Turning Lathe

The sizes of turning lathes denote the diameter, or size, of the largest piece of work that can be turned on them. The measurement is taken from the center point of the live center to the bed of the lathe (usually 5" or 6") and is the radius of the entire circle. The length of a lathe is determined by the length of a piece of work that can be turned. This measurement is taken from the points of the live and dead centers when the tail stock and is drawn back the full extent of the lathe bed.

Before using a lathe, you should familiarize yourself with all the main functional parts and obtain training in it's use.

Care of the Lathe

The lathe should be well lubricated before starting. The lathe should be kept clean by brushing away all debris and then surplus oil wiped away. Tools should be kept clean and well organised in appropriate tool racks and boxes.

Setting Lathe Speed

The speed of the lathe should range from 2400 to 3000 RPM when the belt is on the smallest step of the cone pulley. At this speed stock up to 3" in diameter can be turned with safety. Stock from 3" to 6" in diameter should be turned on the second or third step, and all stock over 6" on the last step.

The speed at which a lathe should run depends entirely upon the nature of the work to be done and the kind of material used. Pieces that cannot be centered accurately and all glued-up work with rough corners should be run slowly until all corners are taken off and the stock runs true.

At high speed the centrifugal force on such pieces is very great, causing the lathe to vibrate, and there is a possibility of the piece being thrown from the lathe thus endangering the worker as well as those around him. After the stock is running true the speed may be increased.