6. Machine operation
6.1 Correct operating position
Always support the tool on the tool rest and guide with the
palm of your hand keeping your fingers closed.
(see Fig 8)
Fig 8
6.2 Tool selection
Successful wood turning does not result from high speeds,
but rather, from the correct use of turning tools.
A perfect and sharp wood turner tool is a precondition for
professional wood-turning.
Major tools:
Fig 9
Gouge (A, Fig 9)
, used for rapidly cut raw wood into round
stock, for turning bowls and plates, for turning beds, coves
and other detail (Fig 10).
Fig 10
Scraper (B, Fig 9)
, used for diameter scraping and to reduce
ridges.
Skew Chisel (C, Fig 9),
used to make vees, beads, etc. (Fig
11). The bevel of skew is parallel to the cut.
Fig 11
Parting tool (D, Fig 9),
used to cut directly into the material,
or to make a cut off. Also used for scraping and to set
diameters.
6.3 Speed selection:
Use low speeds for roughing and for large diameter work. If
vibrations occur, stop the machine and correct the cause.
See speed recommendations.
Speed recommendations
Workpiece
Diameter
mm
Roughing
RPM
General
Cutting
RPM
Finishing
RPM
< 50
1500
3200
3600
50-100
700
1600
2500
100-150
500
1100
1600
150-200
370
800
1200
200-250
300
650
1000
250-320
250
500
800
Fig 12
6.4 Turning between centres
With a ruler locate and mark the centre on each end.
Put a dimple in each end of the shock. Extremely hard woods
6
