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Operation of a Hexagon Lathe
A hexagon lathe is a piece of essential shop equipment for smaller operations. Lathe technology has been around for centuries, but until recently, most manufacturers needed machines that took a great deal of skill to operate. In the twentieth century, however, invention of the hexagon lathe allowed manufacturers to produce pieces with a high degree of precision and repeatability, and to improve quality control.
Although the hexagon lathe is capable of fine operations, it requires skill to use safely and effectively. The following is an overview of how to safely and properly operate a hexagon lathe.
The first step in operating a hexagon lathe is to determine the size and type of cutting tool needed for the job. Generally, the cutting tool should be matched to the material being cut. For softer materials, a high-speed steel tool should be used. For harder materials, a tool with a carbide brazed tip is recommended. The cutting tool should also be sharpened to the right angle and size for the job.
The next step is to mount the cutting tool holder in the headstock of the lathe. This is done by aligning the drive end of the cutting tool holder with the mating part of the headstock, correctly positioning the spindle in the cutting tool holder, and tightening the chuck. It is IMPORTANT to make sure the cutting tool is secure before proceeding.
Once the cutting tool holder is properly positioned, the spindle is engaged, and the workpiece is inserted. Depending on the operation, the workpiece may need to be secured with a chuck or a faceplate. As with the cutting tool holder, it is important to make sure the workpiece is firmly attached to the lathe before proceeding.
Now the cutting operation can begin. First, the correct speed and feed rate should be selected for the job. The speed of the spindle is usually determined by the material it is cutting and the type of cutting tool that is being used. The feed rate is determined by the type of material, the desired tolerance, and the cutting tool.
To start the cut, the compound slide is moved to the desired position and then the spindle is engaged. The workpiece is advanced slowly and the cutting tool is allowed to make contact. As the cutting tool progressively lowers, pressure should be increased on the compound slide. This pressure helps ensure a smooth and even cut.
When the job is completed, the spindle should be disengaged and allowed to stop. The cutting tool and workpiece should be removed and the cutting tool holder and slide should be brought back to the original positions.
Following these steps will help ensure safe and effective operation of the hexagon lathe. It is important to remember that proper setup and operation of the lathe is essential to ensure quality and accuracy in the finished product.
