Maintenance, Sanding and Finishing | Powermatic 4224B specs

7.Develop wall thickness at the rim and maintain it as you work deeper into the bowl (Once the piece is thin toward the bottom, you cannot make it thinner at the rim). When the interior is finished, move the tool support to exterior to re-define bottom of bowl. (General rule of thumb: the base should be approximately 1/3 the overall diameter of the bowl).

8.Work the tight area around faceplate or chuck with 1/4" bowl gouge.

9.Begin the separation with a parting tool, but do not cut all the way through yet.

11.7.3Sanding and Finishing

1.Remove the tool support and adjust lathe speed to approximately 500 RPM. Higher speeds can build friction while sanding and cause heat check in some woods.

2.Begin with fine sandpaper (120 grit) and progress through each grit, using only light pressure. Coarser sandpaper tends to leave deep scratches that are hard to eliminate. Use power-sanding techniques to avoid concentric sanding marks around your finished piece. Avoid rounding over the rim and foot with sandpaper; try to keep details crisp. Finish sanding with 220 grit.

3.Remove sanding dust with tack rags or compressed air and, with lathe turned off, apply first coat of finish. Let stand for several minutes, wipe off excess. Allow to dry before sanding again with 320 or 400 grit sandpaper.

4.Turn lathe back on and continue the separation cut almost all the way through the base. Stop at about 3" and use a small fine tooth saw to separate the bowl from the waste.

5.Apply second finish coat and allow to dry before buffing.

12.0Maintenance

Before doing maintenance on the lathe, disconnect it from electrical supply by pulling out the plug or switching off main switch. Failure to comply may cause serious injury.

Maintenance on the 4224B Lathe should be performed at periodic intervals to ensure that the machine is in proper working order, that all fasteners are tight, and all necessary adjustments have been made. Inspection and maintenance should be performed at least twice a year, but more frequently if the lathe receives constant use.

Clean and oil the lathe bed(s) so that headstock, tailstock and tool support base will slide easily. Clean any rust spots that may develop on the bed with a commercial rust remover.

Use compressed air to blow out the interior of the headstock, in order to keep sawdust and chips from accumulating on belts and sheaves. Also blow off debris that accumulates in the motor fan, and on the inverter. Do not disassemble inverter to clean!

Frequently clean out the morse tapers on both headstock and tailstock. Commercially available taper cleaners may be acquired from tool stores.

4224B specifications

The Powermatic 4224B is a premier wood lathe that exemplifies robust engineering and advanced technology, making it a favored choice among both professionals and hobbyists in the woodworking community. This lathe is designed to handle large workpieces with precision and ease, ensuring superior performance during various turning tasks.

One of the standout features of the Powermatic 4224B is its powerful 2-horsepower motor, which provides ample torque even at low speeds. This motor is housed in a heavy-duty cast iron construction, ensuring stability and reducing vibrations while in operation. The lathe's bed is also made from solid cast iron, offering a sturdy foundation and longevity that can withstand rigorous use.

The 4224B boasts an impressive 24-inch swing over the bed, allowing woodworkers to tackle large bowls and hollow forms. With an overall length of 42 inches, it accommodates a wide range of projects, making it versatile for different turning applications. It features a user-friendly digital readout for spindle speed, allowing operators to quickly and efficiently adjust settings to suit their specific needs.

In terms of technology, the Powermatic 4224B integrates an innovative SteadyRest and a Tailstock that provides enhanced stability and control during the turning process. The lathe also incorporates a 24-position index head, enabling precise indexing for decorative turning and ensuring accuracy in each rotation.

Another significant characteristic is its variable speed control, allowing users to switch speeds from 40 to 3200 RPM, catering to different materials and project requirements. The quick-change drive system enhances the ease of switching between speeds without the need for additional tools.

The electronic braking system adds an essential safety feature, rapidly stopping the spindle when needed, enhancing user confidence during operation. Additionally, the lathe comes equipped with adjustable feet, ensuring it can be leveled on uneven surfaces.

Overall, the Powermatic 4224B wood lathe is a well-rounded tool that combines power, precision, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for serious woodturners looking to elevate their craft. Its durable design, advanced features, and user-friendly operation make it an investment that can significantly enhance any woodworking workshop.