What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lathe
A mini lathe is a versatile and affordable machine used by inventors and model makers or anyone interested in doing metal works and those who needs a machine for fabricating precision parts. It is a miniature version of the industrial sized lathes for metalworking and it has a very different design from a lathe for woodworking. This mini machine can be used though for wood shaping as well as shaping of plastics and other material types; it gives precise diMensions.
What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lathe
What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lathe
What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lathe
What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lathe
There is much potential for the use of this small machine, but sadly, there are limitations to what it can do. So you should be aware of some shortcomings when buying one. Fortunately, there is a wide availability of information on this machine that can help you on yourdecision.
The good news is that there has been a lot of improveMent on the quality of these mini lathes since it was introduced to the public. The first models have speed motor controller issues which are not present to the newer models. Furthermore, the latest models have better overall workmanship quality than the first models. There may still be some small defects but the readiness for use of the machines out of the boxes compensated for them.
Sizes:
The most common mini lathe being used today is the 7 x 12 version in preference over the 7 x 10 version of the older models. The fact that The newer models are 4 inch longer makes them a lot more useful. These machines are actually available in four sizes; 7 x 7 x 8, 7 x 12, 7 x 14 and 16.The features and the capacities are quite similar among the versions and they actually only differ in length. The 7 is the highest diaMeter size that the machine can be swung over. The next figures are the lengths that the machine can be turned. The old version of 7 x 10 though does not meet up with its name because it just has 8 inches between tailstock centres.
Motor Speeds:
Since the features of the lathes of today have been good improveMents from the first models, the motor speed of about 100 RPM no longer applies. Today's mini lathes have more power and each brand has come up with their own version of different motors. Some brushless DC motors use with more torque resulting in quieter, more dependable and more powerful machines.
SpecialFeatures:
A mini lathe has two special features that may seem unique to a machine this small. It has a high and low ratio gearbox electronic variable speed and a lead screw rotation that can be used in reverse for working away from the cutting threads.
Benefits:
A mini lathe is handy, portable, affordable and light. The price allows you to save money while having the best machine for your workshop needs. The size allows you to fit the machine into a small workshop without being crowded. This machine is ideal to be used by small scale inventors, engineers and hobbyists.
What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lathe