How Does an Engine Lathe Work?
The Spindle The item that is to be worked on with a lathe is fastened between two centers capable of gripping the piece of wood known as chucks. The rotational movement that is necessary for the lathing process itself is accomplished with the spindle that is mounted in the headstock. In order for longer pieces of wood to be accommodated by the lathe, this spindle may be hollow. The end of the spindle is threaded so that various chucks can be applied. An alternative approach is to replace the chuck with a pointed steel attachment that so that a center can be fit into a tapered socket at the end. Rotation The spindle must be rotated at a great speed so that the cutting tool can work properly. This rotation is accomplished by setting the transmission ratio of the main gearbox. An item known as a saddle or carriage is mounted on the guideway of the lathe bed and carries the tool for the actual cutting of the wood. The saddle moves in a diagonal motion along the longitude of the lathe while
