Are you thinking of joining a factory or opening up a home workshop that you always dreamed of?
Well, whether you are entering a factory for the first time or wetting your feet in a metalworking hobby, you will soon come across a metal lathe. A formidable machining tool that helps metalworkers craft masterpieces out of raw metal.
Using a metal lathe, especially for a beginner metalworker, may seem like a daunting task. It could have you doubting if metalworking is the right hobby or profession for you.
No doubt that metal lathe machines look daunting at first, but working with them might not be as difficult as it might look to a newbie. But where do you begin?
Well, if you do not know how to use a metal lathe, continue reading.
In this comprehensive guide, we are going to discuss all about using a metal lathe—how to set it up, what to make with it, and how. Besides that, we will also be introducing VEVOR’s best beginner metal lathe to you.
So, let’s get our hands dirty!
Table of contents
What is a Metal Lathe?
A metal lathe is quite like a pottery wheel, but instead of sculpting clay, it sculpts metals. Also where in a pottery wheel, it’s the wheel that moves, and you sculpt it with your hands; in the metal lathe, it is the lathe that spins the metal piece (also known as the workpiece) round and round, while a sharp tool like a chisel carves into the workpiece with a laser-like accuracy. This gentle shaving helps convert the raw metal piece into something brand new. It is not only used by mechanics and engineers but also by artists. It can create all sorts of things, from tiny screws to intricate masterpieces.
Now that we have learned what a metal lathe is, let’s explore the world of possibilities and find out what you can make using a metal lathe.
Hold on to your hats!
What Can You Make on a Metal Lathe?
Metal lathe is a versatile machine. Using your creativity and metalworking skills, you can create some really cool stuff with your metal lathe machine. Here are a few of the numerous things that you can make with your metal lathe:
Bolts And Nuts
Tired of making runs to a hardware store every time you need a nut, bolt, or a screw? Well, you do not have to anymore. With your metal lathe, you can easily make your own screws.
This really comes in handy when you lose a nut and are unable to find the one that fits in your local hardware store.
Metal Hammer
A hammer is a basic tool requirement of any workshop. So, it would be really to craft your own metal hammer. Making the mallet–type head of a metal hammer using a metal lathe is a straightforward project. However, its tapered handle could be challenging for beginner metal workers. Depending on your skill level and your desired design, you can modify the hammer as needed. You can also just make the handle for your rubber mallet.
Metal Rings
Looking to create a special gift for a special someone? How about carving metal rings using your metal lathe machine? Rings could be a bit difficult to craft, especially when working with harder materials such as aluminum. So, it will be an excellent way to improve your metalworking skills.
Metal Scriber
Looking for a metal scriber for your DIY projects? Well, instead of buying it, you can create one with your metal lathe machine.
Shafts and axles
With your spinning metal lathe, you can easily craft anything cylindrical you might need. So whether you need an axle for your go-kart or a shaft, you can easily make one using your metal lathe machine.
Custom Tools
You can also use your metal lathe machine to create custom tools for your workshop. So, whether you need a custom wrench or need to create a tool keychain, your metal lathe machine can help you spin it up.
As your metalworking skills improve, you can make many more things with your metal lathe machine—the only limit is your imagination.
But before you start using a metal lathe machine, you need to make sure that it is set up properly.
Setting Up Your Metal Lathe Before Starting
Properly setting up your metal lathe machine before starting to use it is imperative for accuracy and safety but also overall seamless operation. Here’s how you can set up your metal lathe machine:
- Finding a place for the metal lathe – You need a flat, level, and sturdy place for your metal lathe machine. You will also need to clear up the surrounding area of your metal lathe machine.
- Providing a reliable power source – Connect your metal lathe to a reliable power source. Consult the manual, which came along with your metal lathe, for power requirements such as specific voltage and plug type. Also, do not forget to ground your metal lathe. This will help prevent electrical shocks.
- Leveling up – For perfect results, you need perfect leveling. So, use a level to ensure your metal lathe is perfectly leveled. Also, double-check if the tailstock is aligned with the headstock. Leveling is crucial for ensuring accuracy and reducing wear and tear.
- Choosing the right jaw chuck – Jaw chuck is the thing that holds the metal bar and spins it as the metal carving tool works its magic. So, choose the appropriate chuck for the metal bar you are working with. Make sure that it tightly grips the metal bar and is perfectly centered.
- Picking up the right carving tool – Different metal carving tools are used for different types of cuts. So, ensure you are using the right tool for the job.
- Lubrication – Before you begin using your metal lathe machine for the first time, consider oiling all its surfaces. And check the manual for which parts need to be oiled.
Remember! Excessive oil can be messy as it attracts dirt and debris and may cause problems. So, do not over-lubricate.
- Safety Check – Before you begin using the metal lathe machine, double-check if everything is in the right place—all connections are secure and nothing is wobbly.
Now that you have set up your metal lathe machine, let’s learn how to operate a metal lathe machine.
How to Use a Metal Lathe?
Once you have properly set up your metal lathe machine, it is time to get your feet wet and hands dirty and convert metal bars and rods into useful items you need.
Let’s begin!
Step 1: Mounting the Workpiece
Before you begin working on your workpiece, you will need to make sure that the lathe can firmly hold the metal piece that you will be working on. After attaching the right lathe, you will mount the workpiece into the lathe using a jaw chuck. After that, you will put the chuck guard on (if your machine has any).
Step 2: Adjusting the Tailstock
After mounting the workpiece, ensure it is perfectly centered with the tailstock. If it is not centered, check your manual about how you can make adjustments to the tailstock to get it centered with your workpiece.
Step 3: Mounting the Cutting Tool
There are many different types of cutting tools. Each type offers distinct features and is appropriate for certain metal carving operations. If you need to make grooves, consider using a parting tool; for creating smooth curves and edges, use a round nose tool; and a center tool for creating flat or square surfaces. So, make sure that you pick a suitable cutting tool for your project.
Besides using the right cutting tool, it is also imperative that you use the cutting tool at the right angle. For instance, when carving grooves, placing the cutting tool at a steeper angle will create wider grooves, and if you place it at a shallow angle, the result will be thin grooves.
Step 4: Direction of Rotation
Before turning on a metal lathe machine, you will need to select the direction of the rotation. For most operations, such as external turning, right-hand threading, and boring, counterclockwise rotation is used. Conversely, clockwise rotation is mostly used for polishing and buffing the outside of a workpiece and for machining the inside of a workpiece.
Step 5: Start Slow
When using the machine lathe for the first time, always start with low RPMs. Besides keeping the spindle speed, also make sure that you make slight passes with the carving tool. Make sure that the pressure is not too much, as too much pressure can damage your lathe or break the workpiece and send the metal flying. The flying metal is no joke—it could cause some serious damage, and if it’s not your lucky day and the flying metal comes your way—it could be deadly.
Remember! While you can always carve out more metal, there is no way to put back the metal that you have carved. So, always err on the side of caution!
Step 6: Engaging the Power Feed
Many advanced mini lathes offer this cool feature. The power feed automatically advances the cutting tool and the predetermined speed, which you adjust according to your workpiece.
You will engage the power feed with a lever (or a knob or a button) labeled as power feed (or auto feed), depending on your particular metal lathe model.
Before engaging the power feed, make sure that you have set the appropriate feed rate and direction (some lathes allow for power feed reversal). Observe closely, disengage, and make adjustments when needed.
This is merely the basic overview of how to operate a metal lathe—there is so much more to it. As mentioned earlier, you can do a litany of things with your metal lathe. You will need to master techniques and methods like turning, parting, chamfering, drilling, etc., for some advanced projects.
But fret not. With patience and practice, you can master it all!
Safety Measures
When using a metal lathe machine, remember, Safety First, Always! Here are some safety measures that must be taken when operating a metal lathe machine:
- Wear close-fitting clothes—you do not want loose sleeves or dangling jewelry to get caught in moving parts.
- Wear protective gear, including safety glasses and closed-toe shoes.
- Don’t wear gloves. While you might be tempted to wear protective gear, they compromise dexterity.
- Maintain a safe distance from the moving parts, especially watch your arms and hands.
- Double-check if all guards are in place and everything is secured properly.
- Stop immediately if there is any weird noise coming out of the lathe machine. Remember, a smooth and rhythmic hum is the ideal metal lathe operating noise.
Best Beginner Metal Lathe
1. VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe Machine
VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe Machine is a powerful machine featuring an 800W brushless, direct-drive motor. With this best beginner metal lathe machine, you do not have to worry about replacing motor brushes or drive belts. It is built with high-quality HT200 cast iron, ensuring durability and a long lifespan. It is a versatile machine and can create 19 kinds of threads, 9 kinds of the metric system (0.5-3 mm), and 10 kinds of the imperial system (10-44 TPI). When it comes to security, it has multiple security features such as an emergency stop switch, chuck cover power off switch, main control panel security switch, and overload protection.
2. VEVOR 7×12 Inch Luxury Version Metal Lathe
If you are looking for the best metal lathe for beginners in the luxury versions, this VEVOR 7×12-inch Luxury Version Metal Lathe is the one for you. It features a powerful motor of 550W and a spindle speed ranging between 0 to 2250RPM in both forward and reverse feed. Besides manual feeding, this best beginner metal lathe is also equipped with an adjustable auto feed rate. For maximum safety, it features a full backsplash guard. For maximum versatility, it comes with 9 cutters, which can be easily replaced, depending on your project needs.
3. VEVOR 8×16 Luxury Version Metal Lathe
If you are looking for something more powerful and with greater center distance, check out this beast of a mini lathe: VEVOR 8×16 Luxury Version Metal Lathe. It features a powerful 1100W motor that can support a variable spindle speed from 0-2250 RPM. It is constructed with high-grade iron, ensuring an extended life. Besides a 3-jaw chuck that can handle round and square objects, it also comes with an additional 4-jaw chuck, enhancing its versatility.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Your guide to using a metal lathe machine.
The metalworking journey could be daunting for beginners, so make sure that you choose the best beginner metal lathe as your partner. A good metal lathe machine will help make things easier for you. Also remember: Safety First, Always!
