Mounting Workpiece Between Centers

Lathe Tools (continued)

Skew — used to make vees, beads, etc., see Figure 11.

Square Scraper — used for diameter scraping and featureless scraping, etc, see Figure 11.

Large Domed Scraper — used to reduce ridges on the interior of bowls, round edges of bowls, etc, see Figure 11.

Parting Tool — used to cut directly into the material, or to make a cut off. Also used for scraping and to set diameters, see Figure 11.

For safety and best performance, keep tools sharp. If a tool stops cutting, or requires excessive pressure to make a cut, it needs to be sharpened. A number of brand name sharpening jigs and fixtures are available, however, a woodturner should learn to sharpen tools freehand.

Spindle turning takes place between the centers of the lathe. It requires a spur center in the headstock and a live center in the tailstock.

1.With a ruler locate and mark the center on each end by going corner to corner, see Figure 12. Accuracy is not critical on full rounds but extremely important on stock where square sections are to remain. Put a dimple in each end of the stock with an awl or nail.

2.Extremely hard woods may require kerfs cut into the spur drive end of stock, see Figure 12. You may need to drive the spur center into the stock with a wood mallet. Note: Never drive stock onto spur while it is mounted in the lathe spindle.

3.Install workpiece by inserting the attached spur center into the spindle taper on the headstock.

4.Bring tailstock into position, lock it to the bed, and advance quill with the handwheel in order to seat the live center into the workpiece. Lock the quill in place. Make sure the live center point is centered on your mark.

5.Move tool rest into position. It should be parallel to workpiece, approximately at the centerline, and approximately 1/8" from the closest part of the workpiece. Lock tool rest body and tool rest in place.

6.Rotate workpiece by hand to check for proper clearance from tool rest. Note: You may want to trim off the corners of a square workpiece to make turning a little easier.

7.Start lathe at lowest speed and bring it up to the appropriate RPM for the size of stock, see Figure 6 page 11.

The position of the tool rest can be varied to suit the work and operator. After you become experienced with setting tool rest changing the position will become second nature for the workpiece and comfort of the user.

JWL-1442VS specifications

The Jet Tools JWL-1442VS is a robust wood lathe designed for both novice and experienced woodturners. Known for its versatility and reliability, it has become a go-to choice for many who seek to create intricate designs. This lathe combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it suitable for crafting everything from simple spindle work to complex bowls and detailed ornaments.

One of the standout features of the JWL-1442VS is its variable speed control, allowing users to adjust the speed from 40 to 3200 RPM. This range provides the flexibility needed for different turning projects, ensuring optimal performance for both roughing and finishing tasks. The digital readout on the control panel displays the current speed, making it easy for users to monitor and adjust as needed.

Another notable characteristic is its 14-inch swing over the bed and 42 inches between centers. This generous capacity enables woodturners to work with larger pieces of stock while maintaining precision and stability. The sturdy cast iron construction of the lathe adds to its durability, absorbing vibrations and providing a solid base for safe operation.

The JWL-1442VS also features a sliding headstock, which enhances accessibility and allows for outboard turning. This capability is particularly beneficial when working on larger bowls or wide pieces, as it provides additional room and maneuverability. The tailstock features a convenient lockable design that promotes secure positioning and easy adjustments.

In addition to its mechanical advantages, this wood lathe is equipped with Jet's innovative quick-release spindle lock. This feature enables users to quickly change out chucks and accessories, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. The machine’s ease of use is complemented by its user-friendly controls and intuitive design.

Safety is also a priority with the JWL-1442VS, featuring a built-in safety switch that helps prevent accidental starts. This attention to safety ensures that woodturners can focus on their craft without unnecessary concerns.

In conclusion, the Jet Tools JWL-1442VS is a versatile and powerful wood lathe that caters to a wide range of turning needs. With its advanced variable speed control, robust construction, and thoughtful features, it stands out as an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their woodturning experience. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, the JWL-1442VS promises to deliver performance and reliability for countless turning projects.