14" | O P E R A T I O N | For Machines Mfg. Since 5/11 |
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Live Centers
A live center has bearings that allow the center tip and the workpiece to rotate together; it can be installed in the spindle and the tailstock quill for higher speeds. However, a live center typically does not provide the same level of rigidity as a dead center, and final workpiece accuracy can suffer as a result.
Mounting Dead Center in Spindle
1.DISCONNECT LATHE FROM POWER!
2.Thoroughly clean and dry the tapered mating surfaces of the spindle bore, adapter sleeve, and the center, making sure that no lint or oil remains on the tapers.
Note: This will prevent the tapered surfaces from seizing due to operational pressures, which could make it very difficult to remove the center.
3.Mount a chuck or faceplate onto the spindle, whichever is correct for your operation.
4.Insert the center into the sleeve, then insert the sleeve into the spindle bore through the chuck or faceplate.
Figure 50 shows an example photo of a dead center installed in the spindle, using a lathe dog and faceplate for turning between centers.
Dead Center
Lathe
Dog
Figure 50. Example photo of using a dead center with
a faceplate and lathe dog.
Removing Center from Spindle
To remove the sleeve and center from the spindle, insert a piece of round bar stock or similar tool through the outboard end (on the left side of the headstock). Have another person hold onto the sleeve and center with a gloved hand or shop rag, then tap the sleeve loose.
To avoid premature wear of the dead center or damage to the workpiece, use low spindle speeds and keep the tip of the dead center mounted in the tailstock well lubricated.
Mounting Center in Tailstock
Either a
Tipped
Dead Center
Figure 51. Example photo of using a carbide-tipped
dead center installed in the tailstock.
To mount a center in the tailstock:
1.DISCONNECT LATHE FROM POWER!
2.Thoroughly clean and dry the tapered mating surfaces of the tailstock quill bore and the center, making sure that no lint or oil remains on the tapers.
