Wood Lathes

• Carpenters and woodworkers use wood lathes to produce round wood components for furniture or trim in a home. The round and shaped legs of a table are an example of furniture components created on a wood lathe. Woodworkers also use lathes to create open-ended pieces, such as a wood bowl. In this case, the woodworker uses tools applied to the exterior of the bowl to shape that portion of the project before using the tools from the end or face of the project to shape the interior of the bowl. The operator manually holds the tools against the wood piece with a tool rest when using a wood lathe.
  
  

Engine Lathes

• The special design of an engine lathe allows the creation of the round parts necessary for a gasoline- or diesel-powered engine. The lathe rotates the metal stock while a tool is applied by mechanical pressure to shape such items as crankshafts, camshafts or pistons. Engine lathes operate to a high degree of accuracy and often include electronic or computerized controls. The process is still that of rotating an object for shaping by the application of stationary tools.
  
  

Metal Lathes

• Lathes designed to shape metal for general parts work in much the same manner as engine lathes. The metal work piece rotates at a controlled speed while the bits or cutting tools are applied mechanically. This type of lathe may produce decorative items or metal parts for units other than engines. Metal lathes also contain provisions for drilling holes in the center of a shaped object, as well as creating threaded openings and shafts, such as nuts and bolts.
  
  

Lathe Safety

• The rotating work piece of the lathe does pose some danger to the operator. Make sure the piece is firmly held in place and in balance when operating the lathe. Avoid wearing baggy or loose clothing that can become entangled in the equipment. Wear safety glasses and proper hearing protection at all times along with leather gloves when handling the metal shavings produced by a metal or engine lathe.