What is Lathe?
[[File:Craven Brothers Lathe.jpg|thumb|A lathe]] A '''lathe''' is a type of machine used to shape things. Various kinds of work such as [[woodturning]], [[metalworking]], [[metalspinning|metal spinning]], [[spin welding]] and [[glassworking]] use lathes. A lathe works by turning an object on an axis and applying a tool to shape it. Most lathes turn the workpiece on a [[horizontal]] axis; the [[potter's wheel]] uses a vertical axis. There are various types of lathe machine but horizontal lathes are used widely. CNC (Computer [[numerical control]]) lathes can perform the same jobs more accurately than manual lathes. Lathes work by using accessories such as cutting tools and rests. Examples of objects that can be made using a lathe are, candlestick holders, [[Gun barrel|gun barrels]], [[Cue stick|cue sticks]] and [[Baseball bat|baseball bats]]. == Wood lathes == The lathe is driven by a motor that rotates a blank of wood between two centres – the fork centre and the centre – that hold it in place. The machine rotates the wood and the user uses a variety of chisels to shape the wood by moving the chisels along a tool rest. === Tools === Lathes feature the following kinds of tools: - * '''Gouge''' – scooped in shaped and is used for removing material and rough cutting of the material * '''Parting''' – used for creating inserts, notches or grooves in the workpiece * '''Scraper''' – used to smooth the shape before finishing. These can be either square or round * '''Skew''' – used to create more detailed shapes and grooves == Metal lathes == A metal lathe is like the wood lathe in the type of shapes it can produce but for designed to work on metals. Due to the material the machine is more controlled. The machine is driven by motor that rotates a blank of metal on chuck. The machine rotates the metal and cutting tool moves in different directions to shape metal. How metal lathes work Types of processes involved in metal lathe [[manufacturing]]: - * '''Facing off''' – this when the end of a metal bar is cut