Tool Guides

A Guide to Steady Rests on the Metal Lathe

In the world of metal turning, precision is paramount. Achieving accurate diameters, smooth finishes, and true cylindrical forms often relies on more than just a sharp cutting tool and a...

Guide to Scroll Chucks on the wood lathe

For woodturners, the ability to securely and accurately mount a workpiece on the lathe is paramount. Among the array of work-holding devices available, the scroll chuck stands out as a...

Gear Cutting on the Milling Machine

Gear cutting is a fundamental process in mechanical engineering, essential for creating the toothed components that transmit power and motion in countless machines. While dedicated gear cutting machines like hobbers...

A Lathe Operator's Guide to Handling Chips and ...

Working with a lathe inevitably produces chips and swarf – the discarded material removed from a workpiece during cutting. Effectively managing this byproduct is crucial for safety, machine longevity, and...

The Geometry of Cutting Tools: How Angles Impac...

In metal cutting operations, tool geometry is among the most critical design parameters affecting performance. Cutting tools—whether used in turning, milling, or drilling—interact with the workpiece under high forces, temperatures, and...

Dead Centers vs Live Centers in Lathe Operations

Lathe operations form the backbone of many machining processes, and the choice between dead centers and live centers can significantly impact both workpiece quality and machining efficiency. This article explores...