What is a Bench Lathe?

A bench lathe is a material reduction machine built into a bench or worktable. A lathe takes a solid block of a material and reduces it to create a symmetrical item. Using a bench lathe, you can cut, knurl, drill, or sand material down to create a new object. The lathe is designed to hold the block at two points and spin it while allow the user to reduce the material to the new shape. A lathe can be used for wood, metal, glass work and pottery. Depending on the skill of the operator, the lathe can produce a simple table leg or a very ornate object. Precision lathes utilize computer software to create very complex designs or to mass produce a specific product. A bench lathe has a bed or horizontal beam that allows the excess material to fall away from the work surface. On the left hand side of the bench lathe, the headstock is located. A headstock is the section of the lathe that holds the spinning bearings. Attached to the bench lathe is a spindle. This hollow bar runs parallel to the bed and is used to attached accessories. These accessories are used to secure the workpiece in place. It is very common for bench lathes to also have a hand wheel or exterior threads to allow other accessories to be attached to the bench lathe as required. On a bench lathe, the spindle moves the block of material with either an electric motor or foot power. It is very common for the motor to be concealed in the headstock or in the base of the lathe bench. If the bench lathe has a motor in the headstock, it is important to give carefully consideration to where you install the device, and its proximity to a power outlet. It is critical to ensure the electricity cable is secured safely. Access Bench Lathe made in Taiwan & China. Information on company profile, product categories & images of Bench Lathe manufacturers & suppliers from Taiwan & China available online on B2BManufactures.com.

source: wiseGeek.com: Clear Answers for Common Questions