20.03.2020
- Purpose and description
- Varieties
- How does a lathe work and what does it consist of?
- Diagram of a lathe with all the main devices
- What does a lathe do and how does it work?
- Operating a lathe: how to turn on the device and start working
- How to install and configure a lathe
- How to choose a metal lathe and make out the markings
Turning is one of the most popular and in demand metalworking methods. In this article we will tell you about the design of a universal metal lathe, what kind of equipment it is, what technical characteristics it has, how to choose and install a suitable one and carry out processing on it, as well as about its types.
Classification of lathes
According to the classification of metal-cutting equipment, turning equipment is divided into:
- Single-spindle and semi-automatic machines
- Multi-spindle and semi-automatic machines
- Revolving
- Drilling and cutting
- Lobototurny
- Multi-cutting (screw-cutting)
- Specialized
- Various lathes
- Carousel
Specialized automatic and semi-automatic machines are used for the manufacture of parts that require unique processing; the operation of the machine is partially or fully automated. Semi-automatic machines cannot independently load and unload parts with workpieces; this operation is performed by the operator.
Single-spindle and semi-automatic machines are used for complex processing in large-scale production.
- Multi-spindle and semi-automatic machines. Several workpieces are fixed on the spindle block, after which they are moved one by one to the working position, and they are processed using several tool groups.
- Turret machines are fundamentally special in that they have a rotating head in which everything necessary is fixed, thereby saving processing time.
- Drilling and cutting equipment is designed for synchronous cutting and drilling of volumetric workpieces.
Lathe turning equipment is designed for turning short workpieces of large diameters. It is possible to process workpieces of uneven diameters thanks to independent cams on the faceplate. Quite rarely found in production due to a number of disadvantages, such as low accuracy and productivity.
Screw-cutting lathes are the most recognizable equipment of the turning group. It can be used for turning, drilling, and end processing. Additional functions include thread cutting and cone turning.
Specialized machines are necessary for the manufacture of parts of a narrow range.
Rotary machines are simply irreplaceable when processing large workpieces of short length. Due to their high precision, rotary lathes have almost completely replaced lobot lathes. The horizontal position of the faceplate determines the operating features of the equipment.
Basics for Beginners
Turning specialists produce parts for various machines and mechanisms. Their work involves processing workpieces using the cutting method, during which a layer of material of a certain thickness is removed in the form of chips.
All work is carried out on machines that process various parts using cutters and other tools. When starting a task, the turner clearly sees the sequence of work, the method of manufacturing and processing.
In this case, the specialist must consider the possibility of a certain type of fixation of the workpiece, select devices and tools, and also select a cutting mode. This set of measures is reflected in the content of the production technology process.
Lathe device
Lathes consist of the following structural elements:
- Bed – the main part of the machine on which all components and mechanisms are located;
- An apron that converts the movement of the drive shaft or screw into the longitudinal movement of the caliper;
- A support where the cutting tool is secured;
- Feed box, which communicates movement from the drive shaft or screw to the caliper;
- An electric motor that provides the machine with electricity;
- The spindle head, which houses the spindle of the machine.
What causes injuries?
Factors that pose a threat to humans include:
- Spindle rotation
- Chips flying during processing
- Coolant splashes
- Machine voltage
- Sharp burrs on workpieces
Each worker is given instructions that describe all the points regarding the rules of behavior when operating the equipment. Operators are required to comply with all requirements.
Review of popular models
The table provides information on the most popular machine models:
| Machine model name | Dimensions in mm | Weight in kg | Motor power W | Spindle revolutions per minute | Maximum length of workpiece in mm | Maximum workpiece diameter | general characteristics |
| quantum d140x250 vario | 560 x 320 x 250 | 22 | 450 | 120–3000 | 250 | 141 | Manufactured by a German company. The equipment is intended for household use, but can be used by professional workers. Material of processed parts - metal, wood, plastic |
| proma sm 250e | 540x300x270 | 35 | 230 | 100–2000 | 250 | 140 | The machine is from a Czech manufacturer. Performs operations: turning, drilling, countersinking, reaming. Convenient for home workshop |
| profi 350 | 900x400x400 | 54 | 350 | 100–3000 | 350 | 140 | Made by an Italian manufacturer. The accuracy of the operations performed is ensured by a cast frame and hardened guides. The change in spindle speed in the devices is stepless, due to the presence of a digital output device |
| Corvette 400 | 770 x 330 x 330 | 37 | 400 | 100–2500 | 300 | 180 | Manufactured in Shanghai by a Chinese manufacturer. Allows you to process metal, wood, plastic. |
| jet bd 3 | 440 x 270 x 210 | 13 | 150 | 100–3800 | 150 | 100 | Swiss manufacturer. Thanks to its low weight, it is convenient to install. There is no vibration of the housing. This is ensured by the presence of rubberized feet. |
General provisions
Persons who have completed all introductory instructions, fire safety instructions, and safety instructions are allowed to work on a lathe.
- Working on a lathe is impossible without special clothing. Headgear and safety glasses are required.
- Women are required to hide their hair under a headdress, however, this also applies to men.
- Hair should be styled in such a way as to exclude any possibility of it coming into contact with the rotating mechanisms of the machine.
Important! It is forbidden to use gloves while working, as threads protruding from them can get caught in the rotating chuck, which will lead to injury to the operator. The worker is also required to fasten all buttons on his sleeves for the same reasons.
The machine must be grounded and fixed. If it is being repaired, there should be a corresponding sign on it.
Activities not related to work are prohibited in the workplace: smoking, eating, using a mobile phone.
Workers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not allowed to work on a lathe. Workers who are taking medications that slow their reactions are also not allowed.
Exploitation
In order for mini-machines to serve for a long time, they must be properly maintained:
- After finishing work, small chips accumulate on the surface of the machine. It must be deleted.
- Both guides are lubricated with machine oil.
- The oil in the box is changed periodically.
- Electrical wiring and motor are inspected regularly. All accumulated dirt must be removed.
To make a tabletop lathe yourself, you need certain knowledge, as well as the ability to work with metal. If there are difficulties in these matters, there is an alternative solution - purchasing a finished product. This will cost more, but will save time.
During work
Safety precautions when operating the equipment:
- Securely secure workpieces;
- Remove chips in a timely manner using a special hook and prevent them from wrapping around the part;
- Monitor the proper operation of the machine; in case of deviation, stop work immediately;
- Support long parts either with movable supports (rests) or with a tailstock
Important! It seems stupid, but before work you MUST remove the key from the socket.
Prohibited:
- Touch the part with your hands or foreign objects;
- Work with gloves
- Try to fix equipment failure yourself;
- Cool parts with a damp cloth;
- Getting distracted while working;
- Transmit anything through operating equipment;
- Leave the machine running unattended.
After work
Upon completion of equipment operation, you must:
- Turn off the power;
- Clean the machine and the space around it from chips and liquids;
- Place tools, workpieces and parts;
- In the event of a breakdown, report it to management;
- Wash your hands and face thoroughly, take off your overalls.
Tips for choosing
When choosing a lathe, it is necessary to take into account the material being processed, its dimensions, the dimensions of the machine and, of course, the budget. A small-sized screw-cutting lathe with low power is suitable for a garage.
For production, it is recommended to take a closer look at more powerful and versatile equipment.
It is also recommended that when purchasing a machine, you carefully inspect it for cracks, breakages, abrasions, and so on.
How to become a professional
Turning can be studied throughout your life, since in addition to the theoretical part, a specialist must understand modern technology.
Progress does not stand still, which means there will always be an object of study. In addition, new samples of composite and polymer compounds are appearing among the materials being processed.
To master a profession, there are educational institutions and courses where highly qualified specialists pass on their experience to young students.
Information can also be gleaned from the Internet, where a variety of literature on turning is openly available.
The work requires good physical training, since very often turners suffer from a number of diseases. We can say that excellent health, advanced training courses and the ability to set up equipment will help you achieve the desired heights in your career.
Rating of the best machines
| Place | Model | Advantages | Flaws |
| 1 | JET GHB-1330A DRO | Versatility Reliability Easy to set up Digital display system | High price |
| 2 | STALEX C0632D/1000 | Multifunctionality High accuracy Comfortable | High price |
| 3 | METALMASTER MML 2870M (15461) | Operates from 220V Multifunctionality Smooth adjustment of the router | There is no lubricating fluid supply system |
| 4 | JET BD-12G 220B 50000913M | High quality performance Safety Automatic feeding Reliability | High cost Small set of available functions |
| 5 | JET BD-X7 50000900MX | Compact and lightweight Availability of longitudinal feed automation Good accuracy | No lubricant supply system Manual cross feed |
| 6 | STALEX D250X400C | High quality performance Availability of a protective screen High accuracy | Heavy for its size Manual cross feed |
| 7 | CALIBER STMN-550/350 | Cheap Small dimensions Almost silent | Poor build quality |
Small Business Equipment
The selection of fuel assemblies for a production or repair business project is always carried out taking into account the inevitable modernization for similar tasks. There are no problems with processing precision for equipment in this category. Wear resistance is also at the level. But some manufacturers rely on the universal potential, others on the dimensions of the machine’s working area. Identify your main tasks and look for a machine to implement them. Then the purchase of a new fuel assembly will not affect the profitability of the business.
Proma SKF-800 – from RUB 272,365.
The combination of milling and screw-cutting devices within one lathe turned out to be one of the best solutions of the Czech Proma SKF-800.
The rotary drilling unit and the impressive diameter of the hole in the spindle allow you to work with fairly large parts. 2 identical three-phase motors guarantee sufficient torque for each device. A worthy option for those who plan to engage in professional activities in a small workshop. The only design flaw is the lack of tight contact of the protective panels with the frame. Because of this, chips and lubricants can cause rapid wear of the drive mechanisms. The manufacturer recommends that exposed parts be thoroughly cleaned and lubricated twice a day. I recommend checking the belt tension during each maintenance break. Characteristics of Proma SKF-800
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Permissible diameter of the workpiece above the bed, mm | 420 |
| Distance between centers, mm | 750 |
| Spindle through hole diameter, mm | 28 |
| Speed, rpm | 160 -1360 (7 steps) |
| Weight, kg | 230 |
| Features of the basic configuration |
|
| Homeland of the brand and country of origin | Czech |
Video from the manufacturer Proma, the video shows the performance characteristics and reveals the functionality of the machine:
MetalMaster X32100 – from RUB 284,970.
Thread indicator, digital display device, longitudinal and transverse automatic feed system; supply of lubricant and cooling fluid - a machine from MetalMaster simplifies the process of metal processing without loss of quality. Professionals often compare the functionality of this machine with Soviet equipment of a similar profile. I consider such analogies to be incorrect - apart from a certain set of functions, nothing connects them.
- X32100 removes 3 mm chips in one pass
- Discretion of carriage stroke in any direction – 0.001 mm
- MetalMaster provides the opportunity to reduce equipment costs by 12% by eliminating the digital display device (12% of the cost).
With such a ratio of potential, compact dimensions, ergonomic controls and 1 year of official warranty, this machine has no competitors in the price segment up to 300,000.
Characteristics of MetalMaster X32100
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Permissible diameter of the workpiece above the bed, mm | 330 |
| Distance between centers, mm | 1000 |
| Spindle through hole diameter, mm | 38 |
| Speed, rpm | 65 - 1810 (18 speeds) |
| Weight, kg | 520 |
| Features of the basic configuration |
|
| Development/production | Russia/countries of Southeast Asia (SEA) |
The video shows the machine in operation - the thread cutting process on this unit is demonstrated. In principle, everything is done easily, and special training is not needed at all to work on this machine:
Jet GHB-1330A – from RUB 350,000.
The scope of use of this fuel assembly is small-scale production and piece products.
Weight, length of the frame and a small basic set of accessories indicate the professional orientation of the equipment. That is, when the necessary equipment is purchased as needed to perform specific tasks. Having experience working on this machine, I can say that in addition to convenient control and actual power, the length of the bed or the width of the through hole of the spindle is definitely not enough. Changes had to be made to the order for meter-long spatial structure elements made from a 50-millimeter pipe at the discussion stage. If the specifics of the work are not related to the maintenance of construction sites, then this machine will be a justified investment in the development of your business. Characteristics of JET GHB-1330A
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Permissible diameter of the workpiece above the bed, mm | 330 |
| Distance between centers, mm | 760 |
| spindle through hole diameter, mm | 38 |
| Speed, rpm | 70 - 2000 (8 speeds) |
| Weight, kg | 600 |
| Features of the basic configuration |
|
| Development/production | Switzerland/SEA, Europe |
Detailed video review of the model. The author provides the performance characteristics of the machine, its functionality, and demonstrates it in operation:
