Function

• Wood lathes are capable of cutting symmetrical shapes into wood. They rotate work pieces along an axis at a speed that is controlled by the operator. Cutting or grinding tools are applied to the work pieces removing small amounts of material with each rotation. Wood lathes are used to create products like pool cues and baseball bats.
  
  

Components

• All wood lathes require a number of vital components in their construction. Lathes are made up of a chuck, featuring jaws and a spindle, which hold the work piece at one end. Tailstocks hold the opposite end of the work piece. Headstocks allow for the lathe to rotate at variable speeds. Other integral parts to a wood lathe machine include a tool rest, lead screw and a carriage which houses a top slide, cross slide and saddle. An apron houses the gears, which allow the lathe to spin.
  
  

Warnings

• Wood lathes that are operated improperly can cause injury to the operator. Eye goggles should be employed to prevent flying debris from injuring the eyes. Loose fitting clothing can get caught in a wood lathe while it rotates, for this reason, loose clothing should not be worn while operating these machines. Before using a wood lathe, the operator should familiarize herself with the proper operating procedures described by the manufacturer.