Turning Structural Steel
Turning describes the use of a lathe to cut, shape, or form parts of a workpiece. As an automated process, turning allows an engineer to achieve precise and repetitive outcomes. This guide will explain what turning is and the best methods for turning structural steel.
What is Turning?
Turning is the process of using a lathe or a machine tool to cut, shape, or form parts of a workpiece or material. Turning is the process of taking a cylindrical or otherwise round part and using a lathe or a machine tool to reduce its diameter, increase its length, or shape it according to a set of specifications. This can be done on a variety of metals, including structural steel.
When it comes to structural steel, turning involves two primary processes: machining and threading. Machining is the process of removing excess material from the surface of a workpiece to form a specific shape or finish. Threading is the process of cutting threading grooves into a workpiece in order to allow it to be secured to another part. Both of these processes require specific tools and knowledge in order to be completed accurately.
Types of Structural Steel
Structural steel comes in two different forms—alloyed and unalloyed. Alloyed structural steel is made of a combination of materials that give it different properties than unalloyed steel. Alloyed steel is generally stronger and harder than unalloyed steel, but it is also more difficult to turn. Unalloyed structural steel is not composed of any other materials, and thus can be easier to turn than alloyed structural steel.
Tools for Turning Structural Steel
When it comes to turning structural steel, there are a few different tools that are necessary for successful completion of the project. First, a lathe or a machine tool is required in order to cut, shape, or form parts of a workpiece or material. When it comes to structural steel, lathes or machine tools that are specifically designed to handle harder materials such as alloyed steel are recommended. Additionally, various cutting tools are necessary in order to cut through the steel. These tools can range from standard drill bits and end mills to more specialized tools such as taps and reamers. Finally, it is important to have the proper lubricants and coolants on hand to ensure a successful and efficient turning process.
Safety Considerations
The most important consideration when turning structural steel is safety. Proper safety precautions such as wearing the necessary safety gear and observing safety protocols is essential. It is also important to observe proper maintenance protocols to ensure that the lathe is running at its optimal level of performance and that it is continuously inspected for damage or wear. Finally, it is imperative to follow all manufacturer instructions for the tools and materials being used to ensure that the process is completed safely and successfully.
Turning structural steel can be a complex process due to the hardness of the material and the tooling required. However, with the right tools and processes in place, it is possible to achieve precise and consistent results. Understanding what turning is and the best methods for turning structural steel is the first step towards creating successful outcomes.