A Guide to Buying a Lathe

Lathes are one of the most versatile pieces of machinery in any workshop. They can be used for a wide variety of tasks, from turning metal parts to creating intricate wooden objects.

But with so many different models and brands on the market, it can be difficult to know which lathe is right for your needs. Fortunately, at Penn Tool Co., we’ve been uniting machinists and woodworkers with the best equipment for the job since 1968!

In this article, our lathe experts discuss what a lathe is, what it does, and how to choose the right model for your workshop. We also highlight the top qualities of the best industrial metal lathes available today.

What is a Lathe?

As one of the tools that every machine shop must have, lathes are a vital part of metalworking and woodworking operations. A lathe is a machine that rotates an object around a central axis while shaping it with various tools.

This cylindrical shaping is often used to create many of the products, components, and materials that many consumers take for granted. If you’ve ever wondered at an intricately carved metal object, then you may have a lathe operator to thank.

What Does a Lathe Do?

A lathe can be used to create symmetrical objects by rotating them around a central point. This is done by using various cutting and shaping tools to remove material from the object. The object is typically held in place by either a lathe chuck or a faceplate.

How Does a Lathe Work?

A lathe works by spinning a workpiece around a central axis while shaping it with various cutting and shaping tools. The speed at which the object is spun and the type of tool used will determine the final shape of the object.

Lathes can be used to create a variety of objects, from small parts to large sculptures. In a workshop setting, lathes are most commonly used to create metal parts for machines or other objects.

What Lathe Should I Buy?

Now that you know the basics of lathes and what they can do, it’s time to consider what you should look for in a new lathe. When choosing a lathe, there are several important factors to consider, including:

1. The size of the lathe.
2. The type of material you’ll be working with.
3. The budget you have to work with.
4. The features you need/want.
5. The brand reputation.

Top Qualities of the Best Industrial Metal Lathes

When it comes to choosing an industrial metal lathe, it helps to review the most rewarding features of the most popular models. Here are some of the top qualities that you should look for:

1. Heavy-duty construction. A good industrial lathe should be built with heavy-duty construction in order to withstand constant use. Look for a lathe that is made from durable materials such as cast iron or steel.

2. Variable speeds. A lathe with variable speed settings gives you more control over the shaping of your objects. This is especially important if you plan on working with different materials.

3. Ease of use. Even if you are an experienced machinist, you still want a lathe that is easy to use. Look for a lathe with an intuitive design and controls that are labelled clearly.

4. Versatility. A versatile lathe empowers you to create a variety of objects. Look for a lathe that comes with a variety of attachments and accessories.

5. Affordability. When it comes to industrial equipment, you don’t want to sacrifice quality for price. Fortunately, we know a place that offers each of the aforementioned benefits on this list, and at competitive prices!

Where to Buy a Lathe

Buy your lathe at Penn Tool Co. to ensure that you get everything you need:

• An Expansive Collection of Diverse Machines
• Feature-Packed Equipment at Unparalleled Pricing
• Knowledgeable Machine Shop Experts that Can Narrow Down Your Options!

Buy a Lathe That Your Workshop Will Love at Penn Tool Co.

To find the perfect lathe for your workshop, reach out to our team today.