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HOW TO CENTRE THE CUTTING TOOL
V. Ryan © 2003 - 2009
 
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Before any turning takes place it is common practice to check that the point of the lathe tool is centred. This means that the lathe tool point should be the same height as the tip of the tailstock centre. If this is not done and the tool point is either above or below the centre point - usually the finish to the steel will be poor. Also, a significant amount of vibration could take place during turning.
   

 
 
 

The best lathe cutting tools are made from high speed steel. Diagram ‘A’ shows a typical solid lathe tool. The shank is clearly shown, this is the part that is fixed into the toolpost. Diagram ‘B’ shows a second type. This is a tool holder. A small lathe tool made of high speed steel is tightened into the cast steel tool holder. The advantage of this type is that the smaller lathe tools are cheaper to buy.

 
 

TWO TYPES OF LATHE CUTTING TOOLS

 

 
 
 

A SELECTION OF LATHE CUTTING TOOL PROFILES

   

QUESTION:

1. With the aid of a diagram, explain how a lathe tool is centred.

2. Why is it necessary to centre a lathe tool?

   
 
   

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