lathe



RULES OF THE WOOD LATHE:

1. Be sure to have your instructor's permission before operating the machine. This includes the expectation that you have:

  • Taken and passed the safety test.

  • Demonstrated the proper use of this power tool to your instructor.

  • Demonstrated the ability to work safely while in the wood shop.

2. Do not use when overly tired, distracted or when on medications that cause sleepiness.

3. Wear appropriate shoes and clothing.

  • Always wear eye protection.

  • Clothing should not be loose, baggy or torn.

  • Remove ALL jewelry, tie back long hair and roll up long sleeves

  • Open-toes shoes and Crocs should NOT be worn.

  • Remove all headphones and AirPods when operating machinery.


Before Starting the Lathe:

  1. All stock must be properly secured in the lathe chuck or mounted prior to the machining process taking place.

2. Make all adjustments while the machine is at a complete stop.

3. Ensure your tools are sharp.

4. Set your tool rest so that with your cutting tool lines up with the middle of the wood when on top of the rest.

  • Hand turn the headstock hand wheel to ensure clearance.


While in Operation:

1. Use slower speeds with larger pieces of wood.

2. Your tool should rest firmly on the tool rest at all times.

  • Your index finger on the tool rest should slide smoothly on the tool rest.

  • Your thumb should be apply downward pressure.

3. Light cuts (pressure) should be used initially as the wood is not perfectly round at first.

4. When roughing stock, do not force the tool in the work piece or take too big of a cut.

5. As the wood is shaped, stop the lathe and move the tool rest as close as possible throughout the process.

6. When hollowing out a project, use the round nose tool, not a gouge.

7. When hollowing out a project, cut from outside to center on the side that is spinning downward.

8. Remove the tool rest when sanding.

9. Never attempt to stop a revolving piece of work by hand.

10. This is a 1 person machine. Everyone else should be outside of the safety zone.


Turning Speed:

  1. Select turning speed carefully.

  • Large diameter stock must be turned at a very slow speed.

  • Always use the lowest speed to rough out the stock.