Machine for the production and processing of rotationally symmetrical components ("turned parts"), e.g. chair and table legs. The terms turning lathe and lathe or lathe machine are used synonymously in woodworking. Technically speaking, the general term "turning" also covers metalworking, metal processing "turning" always processing to the processing of wood.

Mode of operation

The workpiece is fixed horizontal in the machine, between the headstock and - with double-sided clamping - the tailstock. For long workpieces, additional support is provided by a steady rest to the mission. The workpiece rotates and is now machined symmetrically to the rotation axis through tool feed a tool. The tool is held by:

• the machine operator supported on a hand rest OR
• a cross-slide which can be adjusted by means of crank wheels

The machining dimensions of lathes are given as:

• Top of the range: max. length the workpiece (distance between spindle and tailstock)
• Centre height: max. radius of the workpiece (distance between machine frame and center of the rotational axis)

Lathes can be equipped with further processing units, e.g. for boring, milling, Fluting or sanding.

Related types of Machines

Depending on tool feed, workpiece clamping and special functions, miscellaneous types of lathes are distinguished:

• Lathe: double-sided clamping, manually tool feed
• CNC controlled lathe: double-sided clamping, CNC-controlled tool feed
• Lathe for short workpieces: single-sided clamping, turning length up to max. 300 mm
• Automatic wood turning lathe: double-sided clamping, automatic tracing device
• Shell and ring lathe: single-sided clamping, automatic tracing device