A lathe is a machine tool that rotates a workpiece about an axis of rotation to perform various operations such as cutting, sanding, drilling, or deformation with tools that are applied to the workpiece to create an object with symmetry about that axis. Lathes are commonly used to shape metal, wood, or other materials. The parts may be cylindrical, conical, or a combination of the two. Lathes have been used by almost all civilizations in human history.
Lathes are used in a wide variety of industrial settings, from large production operations to small machine shops. While relatively simple in concept, lathes can be used for a wide variety of operations. The most common purposes involve the production of cylindrical objects. Lathes can be used to create complex three-dimensional shapes and to produce spherical or tapered portions.
Modern lathes are usually powered by some type of electrical motor, either AC or DC, while older models were powered by manual or steam engine. The power source will affect how quickly the lathe can perform its operations and how accurate it can be. The type of tooling used will also depend on the desired outcome. A variety of cutting tools, such as drills and saws, can be used to cut, shape, and form the material being worked on.
The bed of the lathe is the foundation for the rotating material. It supports the material and keeps it secure during operation. Depending on the type of job being conducted, the bed of a lathe may also have features such as stops, clamping devices, and measuring apparatus.
The cutting tool is the primary tool used in the operation of a lathe. It is the part of the machine that cuts away unwanted material and shapes the material into the desired shape. Various materials may require different types of cutting tools, such as steel cutting tools for metal and wood cutting tools for wood. The cutting tool may also come in different shapes and sizes, depending upon the job requirements.
With the advancement of computerized machinery, lathes can now be used to produce very complicated shapes and objects. Computer numerical control, or CNC, lathes allow for automated operation of a lathe in order to create highly complex objects. By using a programmable computer, a programmer can design the exact shape desired without requiring manual intervention.
Generally, lathes are capable of producing extremely precision objects. This is a result of the tight tolerances and accuracy of the machine itself, and of the tools that are used. As with any machine, however, there is some degree of variability and error in the output, although this can be minimized with proper maintenance and calibration.
Lathes are a key component in machine shops and are essential for fabricating and creating parts for a variety of machines and products. As with any other machine, regular maintenance and inspection are essential in order to ensure that a lathe is running optimally and safely. The economics of purchasing and maintaining a lathe can vary significantly, depending upon the type and quality of the machine and the amount of use it receives.
