A metal lathe machine is a lathe that is designed to shape hard materials. When you buy a new lathe go through the instruction manual very carefully. These manuals are quite easy to follow. Even on the internet a lot of information is available regarding the usage of this equipment.
Tips to follow while using a Metal Lathe Machine:
- A metal lathe is not a small so for the first few days work under an experienced metal worker and take his guidance. If you are not careful it can lead to injury.
- Warm up the machine for about 10 minutes at a speed of 1000 rpm, never run the device cold. It should be well lubricated.
- It has either 3 jaw chucks or 4 jaw chucks. These move at different speeds, up to 6500 rpm. A 4 jaw chunk should be used to hold an irregular material.
- Check and prepare the tools and make sure they are tightly placed. Insert the tool block in the tool holder, insert the cutter and tightened it properly.
- Insert the drill chuck in the tail stock. This is used to drill holes in the metal piece. The crank is located at the end of the measuring tool.
- The turning spindle should be stopped before setting the zero point. With a tool holder keep a half an inch wedge between the tip of the tool and the piece of work and tighten it.
- Create an X axis by pulling the tool towards yourself finding the micrometer wheel and setting it at zero point.
- Next move towards the work piece at a distance of 0.5 inches. This is the Z zero point.
- Wear protective eye equipment while working with metal or the splinters can damage your eyes. Keep the hair tied tightly.
- Wear gloves and other safety guards while using it. Wear tight fitting clothes, remove any jewellery or the tie.
- Take care while moving around the workshop, do not move it alone as these are heavy equipments. Never lean on the it.
- The area around the machine must be kept clear, and free from any oil spills. The bed must be kept clean as the cast iron dust can damage it
- Support the device with a clamp or a holder, this reduces the strain on the lathe and prevents the cutting from chatter.
- Clean the center carefully before inserting it in the headstock or the tailstock.
- Once in a while open and clean the gear teeth of the accumulated fine particles of metals. Use pliers or a brush to remove chips of metal.
- Always stop the tool and then make adjustments and let it stop completely before changing spindle speed.
- Before operating it remove the chuck keys and wrenches. Never leave the key in the chuck.
Conclusion
Always take care to choose a good quality metal lathe machine, which is of superior class. One must be aware of the safety risks associated with using a metal lathe and understand the precautions in order to avoid accidents.
