Face Plate or Chuck, Wood Selection | Jet Tools JWL-1642EVS specification

Face Plate or Chuck

While faceplates are the simplest, most reliable method of holding a block of wood for turning, chucks can also be used. A chuck is not a requirement but is handy when working on more than one piece at a time. Rather than removing screws, you simply open the chuck and change workpieces. The most popular ones are four jaw scroll chucks with a variety of jaws to accomodate different size tenons. Most also come with a screw chuck as well.

Wood Selection

Firewood is the cheapest, most widely available stock to use while learning to turn bowls. Develop skill with each tool before attempting to make a finished piece. It is best to start with dry wood, without worrying about drying or distortion. Once turning becomes comfortable, try green wood which cuts very easily. As the turner gains experience, he or she will find extraordinary grain and figure in the form of burls, crotches and bark inclusions.

Checks & Cracks

Green wood will check and crack. For best results, leave logs in as long lengths as you can handle. As the material starts to dry, surface cracks will develop on the ends of the log. Cut off two to three inches and you should find good, sound wood. Also cut the log in half along the pith to avoid having it in the finished piece. Most checks radiate from the pith. As you turn bowls from green wood, make sure you maintain a consistent wall thickness throughout the piece. Leaving a piece thick in some areas and thin in others will cause the wood to dry unevenly and promote checks and cracks.

Distortion

Distortion is a problem associated with turning green wood. It will vary from one type of wood to the next. Typically, fruitwoods tend to distort more than others. It also varies with the time of year the tree was cut and how the logs are stored.

Tools for Bowl Turning

The deep fluted bowl gouge is the most essential and versatile tool for most bowl and faceplate style turning. The bowl gouge is heavier and easier to control than other types of

gouges. It also allows removal of wood much faster and with less vibration than other gouges. Most average sized bowl work can be accomplished with a 3/8" or 1/2" bowl gouge. A 1/4" bowl gouge is best suited for smaller bowls and light finishing cuts. Larger 3/4" and 1" bowl gouges are only used for extremely large pieces.

Large domed scrapers can also be used to help clean up the interior surfaces of bowls. A light touch with the scraper slightly tilted will eliminate some of the ridges left by a bowl gouge.

JWL-1642EVS specifications

The Jet Tools JWL-1642EVS and JWL-1642EVS-2 are standout lathes in the realm of woodturning, designed for both novice and seasoned woodworkers. These lathes offer unmatched versatility and precision, making them ideal for a wide variety of turning projects, from simple spindles to complex bowls.

One of the most notable features of the JWL-1642EVS is its powerful 1.5 HP motor that delivers excellent torque across a wide range of RPMs. This enhanced performance allows users to work with various wood species while maintaining smooth operation, a critical factor for achieving a high-quality finish. The electronic variable speed (EVS) control system provides convenient adjustments, allowing artisans to select the optimal speed for their specific turning needs. With a speed range from 40 to 3,600 RPM, craftspeople can effortlessly switch between fine detail work and aggressive stock removal.

The lathe's robust design is complemented by a cast iron bed that minimizes vibrations and ensures stability during operation. This construction not only enhances durability but also contributes to precise results, allowing users to create intricate designs without worrying about inconsistencies in the finish. Additionally, the JWL-1642EVS-2 variant offers an even larger capacity, with an impressive 16-inch swing over the bed and 42-inch length, accommodating larger workpieces.

Furthermore, both models feature a convenient electronic spindle lock, making the process of changing chucks and accessories quick and efficient. The adjustable swivel headstock allows for greater flexibility in accessing various angles, providing users with more control and comfort during operation.

Safety is also a priority in the design of the JWL-1642EVS and JWL-1642EVS-2, with features such as a safety restart switch, ensuring that the lathe cannot restart unexpectedly after a power interruption. Easy-to-read digital readouts for speed settings further enhance user experience by allowing for precise monitoring while turning.

Overall, the Jet Tools JWL-1642EVS and JWL-1642EVS-2 combine advanced technology, durable construction, and user-friendly features, making them indispensable tools for any woodturner looking to expand their craft and achieve professional-quality results. Whether you’re creating functional items or artistic pieces, these lathes empower users to elevate their woodturning endeavors.