SINGLE POINT TOOL BITS

Single point tool bits can be one end of a high-speed steel tool bit or one edge of a carbide or ceramic cutting tool or insert. Basically, a single point cutter bit is a tool that has only one cutting action proceeding at a time. A machinist or machine operator should know the various terms applied to the single point tool bit to properly identify and grind different tool bits (Figure).

1. The shank is the main body of the tool bit.
2. The nose is the part of the tool bit which is shaped to a point and forms the corner between the side cutting edge and the end cutting edge. The nose radius is the rounded end of the tool bit.
3. The face is the top surface of the tool bit upon which the chips slide as they separate from the work piece.
4. The side or flank of the tool bit is the surface just below and adjacent to the cutting edge.
5. The cutting edge is the part of the tool bit that actually cuts into the workpiece, located behind the nose and adjacent to the side and face.
6. The base is the bottom surface of the tool bit, which usually is ground flat during tool bit manufacturing.
7. The end of the tool bit is the near-vertical surface which, with the side of the bit, forms the profile of the bit. The end is the trailing surface of the tool bit when cutting.
8. The heel is the portion of the tool bit base immediately below and supporting the face.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

The lathe cutting tool or tool bit must be made of the correct material and ground to the correct angles to machine a workpiece efficiently. The most common tool bit is the general all-purpose bit made of high-speed steel. These tool bits are generally inexpensive, easy to grind on a bench or pedestal grinder, take lots of abuse and wear, and are strong enough for all-around repair and fabrication. High-speed steel tool bits can handle the high heat that is generated during cutting and are not changed after cooling. These tool bits are used for turning, facing, boring and other lathe operations. Tool bits made from special materials such as carbides, ceramics, diamonds, cast alloys are able to machine workplaces at very high speeds but are brittle and expensive for normal lathe work. High-speed steel tool bits are available in many shapes and sizes to accommodate any lathe operation.

SAFETY MEASURES WHILE USING LATHE

All lathe operators must be constantly aware of the safety hazards that are associated with using the lathe and must know all safety precautions to avoid accidents and injuries. Carelessness and ignorance are two great menaces to personal safety. Other hazards can be mechanically related to working with the lathe, such as proper machine maintenance and setup.

Some important safety precautions to follow when using lathes are:
1. Correct dress is important, remove rings and watches, and roll sleeves above elbows.
2. Always stop the lathe before making adjustments.
3. Does not change spindle speeds until the lathe comes to a complete stop.
4. Handle sharp cutters, centers, and drills with care.
5. Remove chuck keys and wrenches before operating
6. Always wear protective eye protection.
7. Handle heavy chucks with care and protect the lathe ways with a block of wood when installing a chuck.
8. Know where the emergency stop is before operating the lathe.
9. Use pliers or a brush to remove chips and swarf, never your hands.
10. Never lean on the lathe.
11. Never lay tools directly on the lathe ways. If a separate table is not available, use a wide board with a cleat on each side to lay on the ways.
12. Keep tools overhang as short as possible.
13. Never attempt to measure work while it is turning.
14. Never file lathe work unless the file has a handle.
15. File left-handed if possible.
16. Protect the lathe ways when grinding or filing.
17. Use two hands when sanding the workpiece. Do not wrap sand paper or emery cloth around the workpiece.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF LATHES

Lathes are highly accurate machine tools designed to operate around the clock if properly operated and maintained. Lathes must be lubricated and checked for adjustment before operation. Improper lubrication or loose nuts and bolts can cause excessive wear and dangerous operating conditions. The lathe ways are precision ground surfaces and must not be used as tables for other tools and should be kept clean of grit and dirt. The lead screw and gears should be checked frequently for any metal chips that could be lodged in the gearing mechanisms. Check each lathe prior to operation for any missing parts or broken shear pins. Refer to the operator’s instructions before attempting to lift any lathe. Newly installed lathes or lathes that are transported in mobile vehicles should be properly leveled before any operation to prevent vibration and wobble. Any lathes that are transported out of a normal shop environment should be protected from dust, excessive heat, and very cold conditions. Change the lubricant frequently if working in dusty conditions. In hot working areas, use care to avoid overheating the motor or damaging any seals. Operate the lathe at slower speeds than normal when working in cold environments