Woodworking Machines - Wood Turning Lathes

What should you do before using a wood turning lathe?

A wood turning lathe can be dangerous if not used properly. Refer to Woodworking Machines - General Safety Tips for general safety precautions.

• context Read the owner's manual carefully.
• context Make sure you understand instructions before attempting to use any tool or machine. Only experienced and trained lathe operators should be allowed to operate lathes.
• context Learn the applications and limitations before use.

What safety procedures should be followed when using a wood turning lathe?

• context Wear safety glasses with side shields or safety goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) to protect yourself from flying chips.
• context Wear hearing protection that is suitable for the level and frequency of the noise you are exposed to in the woodworking area.
• context Wear respiratory protection when dust is generated (e.g., during sanding operations).
• context Wear protective footwear when required.
• context Work in a well-lighted area.
• context Before the lathe is turned on, make sure that all clamps and fittings are secure and that the work piece is free to turn.
• context Use stock that is free of defects, such as loose knots, splits, cracks, or foreign objects.
• context Hold tools firmly with both hands and against the tool rest.
• context Hold the stock securely on the faceplate or between the centres.
• context Use only furnished or approved tools that are meant for lathe work.
• context Use sharp, well-maintained chisels and gouges.
• context Select a speed that is appropriate for the job. Operate at speeds recommended by the manufacturer. Select a low speed and use a moderate cut depth to prevent splinters from flying out during roughing operations. The actual speed of the lathe depends on the type of wood, diameter of stock, nature of work being done, and type of tool used.
• context Adjust tool rests so that they are parallel and as close as possible to the stock. They should also be set high enough so that tools will cut into the wood slightly above the centre of the work being turned.
• context Remove the tool rest when sanding or polishing.
• context Use appropriate tools to hold the sandpaper or emery paper whenever possible. Examples include a 'nutcracker' or paper fixed to a piece of flat wood. If you must use your hands always hold the paper in a way that will not allow the paper to catch, pull, or entangle around the stock.
• context To make a faceplate turning, one hand steadies the tip of the chisel, which holds the edge against the tool rest while the other hand guides the tool. Keep the tip of the chisel held higher than the handle.
• context Turn off the power and lock out the machine when making any adjustments or changes to the setup.