Hi,
Is it better to use a mini lathe instead of a bigger one for making a small job, or it doesn't make a difference?
Lathe question
Feb 19, 2006
3 Replies
If the object you want to turn fits and the lathe is steady and vibration free then size doesn't matter. You may want to use smaller tools on small work, though.
J.
SBO wrote:
I've made very small parts using a 15-foot lathe. What really matters is the holding device, tool rest, and tools. The larger lathe has the advantage of more mass, less vibration.
Normally there is no difference. However the tool rest on many larger lathes will not fit between the live and drive ends of the lathe when working on small projects that are only a few inches long. With that problem you cannot position the tool rest close to the work if the work is small in diameter.
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