Lathe Turning speeds
Correct selection of turning speeds is important for safety and finish cut quality
It is important to take into account the fixing of the work piece, it should be made as secure as possible.
Various techniques are available for this consult books on the subject and seek training opportunities.
There are safety and out of balance considerations. Aim for a good balance in turning speed, ensure
good fixing and try to balance timber as much as possible before installing on lathe.
In general wood likes being sliced and if too low a speed is used the timber can "hammer" against the
cutting tool, tearing fibers and imposing large forces on the tool and work piece. This can often be
dangerous, it is best to select a higher speed, the cut will be smoother and less force is imposed on the
work piece. It can be likened to a wood plane, if it is pushed very slowly much force is needed to break
the fibers, if the plane is pushed at a higher speed less forces are involved and a better cut results. Use
250 rpm when needed, but it is better turning at 400-600 rpm.
Tailstock
Warning!
Never loosen the tailstock quill or
tailstock while the work piece is
turning.
To move the tailstock along the bed, loosen
the Tailstock Clamp Handle, slide the
tailstock to the desired position, and tighten
the clamp handle.
To move the tailstock quill in or out, loosen
the Quill Lock and turn the Handwheel.
Lock the quill in place with the Quill Lock.
The tailstock quill accepts centers and
accessories with no. 2 Morse taper (#2
MT). To install a taper use a quick, firm
action by hand. Do not pound the taper in.
To remove a taper, insert the operating bar
through the tailstock quill hole. While
holding the taper so it doesn’t fall, tap it out.
The tailstock quill is hollow, allowing you to
bore holes through turnings if a hollow
center is used.
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