For Machines Mfg. Since 5/11 | O P E R A T I O N | 14" |
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Aligning Cutting Tool with Spindle Centerline
For most operations, the cutting tool tip should be aligned with the spindle centerline, as illustrated in Figure 61.
Tools Needed | Qty |
Tool Post | ..............................................1 |
Steel Shims | As Needed |
Cutting Tool | 1 |
Fine Ruler | 1 |
Tailstock Center | 1 |
Cutting | Spindle |
Tool | Center |
| Line |
Figure 61. Cutting tool aligned with spindle centerline
(viewed from tailstock).
There are a number of ways to check and align the cutting tool to the spindle centerline. If necessary, you can raise the cutting tool by placing steel shims underneath it. The shims should be as long and as wide as the cutting tool to properly support it.
Below are two common methods:
•Align the tip of the cutting tool with a center installed in the tailstock, as instructed on the next page. For this to work, the tailstock must be aligned to the spindle centerline (refer to Aligning Tailstock To Spindle Centerline on Page 40 for detailed instructions).
•Make a facing cut on a piece of round bar stock. If the tool is above or below the spindle centerline, a nub will be left in the center of the workpiece. Adjust the height of the tool, then repeat the facing cut to check the adjustment. Repeat as necessary until the center of the workpiece face is smooth.
To align the cutting tool with the tailstock center:
1.Mount the cutting tool in the tool post, then secure the post so the tool faces the tailstock.
2.Install a center in the tailstock, and position the center tip near the cutting tool tip.
3.Lock the tailstock and quill in place.
4.Adjust the height of the cutting tool so that the tool tip is aligned vertically and horizontally with the center tip, as shown in Figure 62.
(Top View) | ||
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| Tailstock |
Cutting |
| Center |
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Tool |
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Cutting | Tailstock | |
Tool |
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| Center | |
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| (Side View) | |
