Operating controls, Operation, Inspection

12.Loosen the pivot lock handle and lower the motor using the tension handle. Re-tighten the pivot lock handle.

10.0Operating controls

See Figure 24.

(A)On/Off Button: Push in to stop the Lathe; pull out to start.

NOTE: If there is a power outage while operating the Lathe, the Lathe will not automatically restart once power is restored. Cycle the on/off switch in order to restart the machine.

Figure 24

(B) Forward/Reverse

When turning with a face plate, make sure both set screws on the face plate are tight (see Figure 21) before reversing the spindle. Failure to comply may cause the face plate to spin loose from the spindle.

(C)Speed Control Dial: Always start the Lathe at the lowest speed, with the dial rotated all the way counterclockwise.

A.C. Inverter (mounted to rear of headstock)

The PM2020 Lathe uses the latest technology in A.C. inverter drives to provide infinitely variable spindle speeds within the specified ranges (shown under sect. 5.0, Specifications). The inverter controls the speed of the motor by varying the frequency of the voltage supplied to the motor. The inverter provides an acceleration ramp that eliminates the shock of normal starting. Also, a braking feature eliminates long coasting periods after the Lathe is turned off.

The 2 horsepower motor is specially designed for use with inverter drives, and is balanced to reduce noise and minimize vibration.

The A.C. Inverter does not require any programming – it is pre-programmed from the factory. The buttons on the face of the inverter should never be pushed at any time. Use only the controls on the front of the headstock.

If you suspect there is a problem with the inverter or the inverter settings, contact Powermatic technical service at 1-800-274-6848.

A lightning strike or power surge may cause the inverter to fail. When lathe is not in use, disconnect power plug, or have a 3- or 4-pole disconnect installed on the power side.

11.0Operation

The information which follows is general in nature and is not intended to be a complete course in wood turning. Nothing can replace the knowledge gained by talking with experienced woodturners or consulting books, trade articles, and such like. Above all, simple trial and error will aid in developing proficiency in the craft.

11.1Inspection

Before operating the lathe, check that everything is in proper working order:

1.Level your machine; use the adjustable levelers to help reduce vibration.

2.Check bearings; adjust only if endplay exists.

3.Check belt; it should be snug but not overly tight.

4.Bed ways; keep clean, use steel wool to remove any rust spots, and apply paste wax to prevent buildup of rust and finishes.

5.Tool support; use a mill file to remove nicks and dings.

6.Spindle tapers; should be clean and free of dust and chips for proper seating of tapers.

7.Tailstock; clean and lubricate ram and locking device.

8.Lighting; proper lighting is essential to eliminate shadows and reduce eye strain.

11.2Turning tools

If possible, select only fine quality, high-speed steel turning tools. High-speed steel tools hold an edge and last longer than ordinary carbon steel. As one becomes proficient in turning, a variety of specialty tools for specific applications may be acquired. The following tools provide the basics for most woodturning projects (see Figure 25):

Skews – 1-1/2" and 1" or 1-1/4", used to make finishing cuts and details.

Large Roughing Gouge – 1" to 1-1/4", used to eliminate waste wood.

Spindle Gouges – 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", used to turn beads, coves and other details.