THE WOOD LATHE
The Wood Lathe is one of the oldest types of powered equipment used to make wooden objects. In its simplest form the process entails the rotation of the work piece against a cutting chisel controlled by the operator. This results in the creation of a circular shape in the work piece, such as in the making of a turned table leg or a wooden bowl.
Two factors determine the size of a lathe.
• The first factor is the swing of the faceplate. This determines the maximum turning diameter of a piece after fixing to the faceplate.
This is called faceplate turning and is one use of the lathe.
• The second factor is the maximum length of a piece that can be turned between centers. This is called spindle turning and is the
second use of the lathe.
Both types of turning are equally useful.
The turning speed is usually variable, driven by a three or four step pulley attached to an electric motor by a Vee belt. Some lathes use a multispeed motor. The larger a work piece is, the slower the turning speed is set.
Two factors determine the size of a lathe.
• The first factor is the swing of the faceplate. This determines the maximum turning diameter of a piece after fixing to the faceplate.
This is called faceplate turning and is one use of the lathe.
• The second factor is the maximum length of a piece that can be turned between centers. This is called spindle turning and is the
second use of the lathe.
Both types of turning are equally useful.
The turning speed is usually variable, driven by a three or four step pulley attached to an electric motor by a Vee belt. Some lathes use a multispeed motor. The larger a work piece is, the slower the turning speed is set.
MAIN PARTS OF THE WOOD LATHE
SAFETY PROCEDURES
- Wear safety glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles).
- Make sure headstock, tailstock and tool rests are working properly and are tight before operating.
- Ensure your material is securely attached before starting the machine.
- Ensure all chisels are sharp and without nicks.
- Always check the speed of the lathe before turning it on. Use slower speeds for larger diameters or rough pieces and higher speeds for smaller diameters and pieces that are balanced. Always start a piece at a slower speed until the workpiece is balanced. If the lathe is shaking or vibrating, lower the speed.
- Keep a firm but not too tight grip on the chisel. Do not strain your hand or arm, and take your time.
- Adjust tool rests so that they are parallel and as close as possible to the stock (1/8"-1/4"). They should also be set high enough so that tools will cut into the wood slightly above the centre of the work being turned.
- Hold tools firmly with both hands and against the tool rest.
- Ease tool into material, take your time and listen for motor strain, or look for burning material.
- Stand clear of possible kickback.
- Be sure to have firm footing when operating the lathe.
- Be careful not to cut too deep with the chisels. Plan your designs in advance and keep and eye on any wobble that develops with your turning.
- Do not attempt thin and/or long materials without proper setup. If in doubt, ask your teacher.
- Remove the tool rest when sanding or polishing.
- Use stock free of defects.
- Turn the lathe off immediately if it does not sound right or if there is excessive vibration.
AT ALL TIMES – IF IN DOUBT, SEE YOUR INSTRUCTOR