Lathe Machine-Introduction, Working Principle, Parts, Operation, Specification,Application

Lathe Machine: It is a tool used in machining processes to shape and cut various materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic. It consists of a rotating workpiece that is clamped and rotated against a cutting tool. The cutting tool is held in a tool post and can move along multiple axes, allowing for precise shaping and cutting operations.

History

The history of the lathe machine dates back to ancient times and it is considered one of the oldest machine tools known to mankind. The lathe machine has evolved over centuries, undergoing various innovations and advancements. Here is a brief history of the lathe machine:

Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia (1300 BC): The origins of the lathe can be traced back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The early lathes during this period were simple machines operated manually. They were used for shaping wood and pottery. Typically, one person would rotate the workpiece while another person shaped it using a cutting tool.
Ancient Greece and Rome: The lathe technology further developed in ancient Greece and Rome. The Greeks introduced the concept of a horizontal axis, which improved the efficiency of the lathe. The Romans added a turning bow and a treadle, similar to a foot pedal, to power the rotation of the workpiece.
Medieval and Renaissance Europe: During the medieval period, the lathe saw advancements in design and functionality. The introduction of the pedal-operated lathe in the 13th century allowed for more precise control over the rotation of the workpiece. This led to improved craftsmanship and the production of intricate designs. In the Renaissance era, the lathe underwent further improvements, including the invention of the screw-cutting lathe by Jacques Besson in the late 16th century.
Industrial Revolution (18th-19th century): The Industrial Revolution marked a significant turning point for the lathe machine. With the advent of steam power and later electric power, lathes became more powerful and automated. James Watt’s steam engine played a crucial role in powering large-scale industrial lathes, which greatly increased productivity and efficiency in manufacturing.
Modern Lathe Machines: In the 19th and 20th centuries, lathe machines continued to evolve with advancements in design, precision, and automation. Standardized tooling systems, such as the quick-change tool post, were introduced, making tool changes more efficient. The development of computer numerical control (CNC) technology in the mid-20th century revolutionized lathe machining, allowing for complex operations and high levels of precision. CNC lathes are now widely used in various industries for their versatility and accuracy.

The history of the lathe machine is a testament to human ingenuity and the continuous pursuit of improving machining capabilities. From its humble beginnings as a simple manual tool, the lathe has transformed into a sophisticated and indispensable machine in modern manufacturing processes.

Lathe Machine Definition

A lathe is a machine tool used for shaping and machining various materials which is operated by rotating the workpiece around an axis of rotation while different tools are applied to the workpiece to perform specific operations.

These operations include cutting, sanding, knurling, drilling, deformation, facing, and turning. The primary goal of using a lathe is to create a finished object with symmetrical features around the axis of rotation.

parts of a lathe machine

Here’s an expanded description of the parts of a lathe machine, using more words:

1. Bed: The bed, which forms the horizontal base of the lathe machine, provides a strong and stable foundation for all the other components. It ensures rigidity and alignment, contributing to the overall accuracy and precision of machining operations. The bed’s length, width, and material composition are carefully designed to withstand the forces generated during machining.

2. Headstock: The headstock is positioned at one end of the lathe bed. It serves as the main housing for various mechanisms and components. The headstock contains the main spindle, which is a hollow cylindrical shaft that rotates and provides power to the workpiece. It also houses a series of gears that transmit power from the motor to the spindle, allowing for different rotational speeds.

3. Main Spindle: The main spindle is a vital component of the lathe machine. It is mounted within the headstock and runs parallel to the lathe bed. The main spindle is responsible for holding the workpiece securely in place and providing the primary rotational motion. It can accommodate various types of chucks or fixtures to grip different workpieces effectively.

4. Tailstock: Located at the opposite end of the lathe bed from the headstock, the tailstock serves as a counterpoint to the headstock. It consists of a movable assembly that can be adjusted along the bed’s length. The tailstock is designed to provide support to the workpiece during machining operations, ensuring stability and accuracy. It typically contains a dead center or a live center, both of which assist in securing the workpiece and facilitating rotational movement.

5. Lead Screw: The lead screw is a long, threaded rod that extends along the lathe bed. It is positioned parallel to the main spindle and runs through the carriage assembly. The lead screw plays a crucial role in converting rotary motion into linear motion. By engaging with a nut on the carriage, it enables controlled movement of the carriage along the bed, allowing for precise positioning and feeding of the cutting tool.

6. Live Center: The live center is a rotating point attached to the tailstock. It consists of a hardened, pointed tip that aligns with the workpiece’s center and rotates with it. The live center provides support and reduces friction during machining operations, allowing for smooth and accurate rotation of the workpiece.

7. Dead Center: The dead center is a fixed point located at the tailstock end of the lathe machine. It complements the live center and acts as a stationary support for the workpiece. The dead center is usually hardened and can be used in conjunction with the live center to stabilize the workpiece during machining, particularly when heavy cutting forces are involved.

8. Carriage: The carriage is a major assembly that moves along the lathe bed. It comprises several components working together to facilitate different types of motion and tool control:

i. Saddle: The saddle is a critical part of the carriage that rests on the lathe bed and slides along its length. It provides a stable platform for mounting other carriage components and supports the cutting tool during machining operations.

ii. Apron: The apron is an integral part of the carriage, positioned at the front of the saddle. It houses various mechanisms and controls for regulating the feed and direction of the cutting tool. The apron typically contains levers, gears, and dials that enable precise adjustment of the tool’s movement.

iii. Tool Post: The tool post is mounted on the top of the compound rest, which is an integral part of the carriage. It holds the cutting tool or tool holder securely in place, allowing for accurate and consistent positioning of the tool relative to the workpiece. The tool post may feature adjustable components to accommodate different tool sizes and shapes.

iv. Cross Slide: The cross slide is a movable component within the carriage that can be adjusted perpendicular to the lathe bed’s axis. It enables lateral movement of the cutting tool, facilitating precise positioning for various machining operations. The cross slide is equipped with controls and locking mechanisms to ensure stability and accuracy during cutting.

v. Compound Rest: The compound rest is positioned on top of the cross slide, providing additional functionality and versatility to the lathe machine. It allows the cutting tool to be set at various angles and orientations, enabling the creation of tapered surfaces, chamfers, and other complex geometries. The compound rest can be swiveled and locked into different positions, offering flexibility for intricate machining tasks.

vi. Compound Slide: The compound slide is a component attached to the compound rest, providing even greater control over the cutting tool’s movement. It enables simultaneous movement in two directions, allowing for compound angles and compound cuts. The compound slide typically includes adjustable handles, graduations, and locking mechanisms to ensure precise positioning and alignment.

9. Feed Mechanism: The feed mechanism regulates the rate at which the cutting tool moves in relation to the workpiece during machining. It determines the speed and depth of each cutting pass, directly influencing the quality and accuracy of the finished product. There are two main types of feed mechanisms commonly used in lathe machines:

i. Belt Feed Mechanism: The belt feed mechanism utilizes a system of belts and pulleys to control the speed and feed rate of the cutting tool. By adjusting the position of the belt on different pulley combinations, the operator can vary the speed at which the carriage moves along the bed, as well as the rate of the tool’s cutting action.

ii. Gear Feed Mechanism: The gear feed mechanism employs a set of gears to regulate the speed and feed rate of the cutting tool. By engaging different gear combinations, the operator can achieve different feed rates, allowing for versatility and precision in machining operations.

These are the key components of a lathe machine, each playing a crucial role in its overall functionality and machining capabilities. The interaction and synchronisation of these parts enable the lathe machine to perform a wide range of operations with precision and accuracy.

working of lathe machine

The working of a lathe machine involves several key steps and components. Here is a general overview of the working process of a lathe machine:

Preparation: Before starting the lathe machine, the operator needs to ensure that the workpiece is securely mounted on the lathe’s spindle. This may involve using a chuck, collet, or faceplate to hold the workpiece in place. The workpiece should be aligned and centered accurately to avoid any imbalance or misalignment during operation.
Power On: Once the workpiece is properly mounted, the operator powers on the lathe machine. This typically involves switching on the main power supply and activating the machine’s control panel.
Speed and Feed Selection: The operator selects the appropriate rotational speed and feed rate based on the material being machined, the type of cutting tool, and the desired machining operation. This is done by adjusting the machine’s speed control mechanisms, which can include belt and pulley arrangements or gear systems.
Tool Selection and Mounting: The operator chooses the appropriate cutting tool for the desired machining operation. This can include turning tools, boring tools, threading tools, and more. The selected tool is mounted securely onto the tool post or tool holder, ensuring proper alignment and clearance.
Tool Positioning: The operator positions the cutting tool at the desired location on the workpiece. This is accomplished by moving the carriage, which holds the tool post, along the lathe’s bed. The operator can use handwheels, levers, or automated controls to move the carriage along the X and Z axes to achieve the desired tool position.
Cutting Operation: With the cutting tool properly positioned, the operator engages the lathe machine to start the cutting operation. The machine’s motor rotates the workpiece, and the operator controls the movement of the cutting tool. Depending on the specific operation, the operator may move the tool along the workpiece’s length (longitudinal feed) or across its diameter (cross feed).
Monitoring and Adjustments: While the lathe machine is in operation, the operator monitors the cutting process. This includes observing the cutting tool’s performance, checking for proper chip formation and evacuation, and ensuring that the dimensions and surface finish of the machined part meet the required specifications. If necessary, the operator makes adjustments to the cutting tool position, speed, or feed rate to optimize the machining process.
Finishing and Parting: Once the primary machining operations are complete, the operator may perform additional finishing operations, such as chamfering or facing, to achieve the desired surface quality and dimensional accuracy. If required, the operator can also use a parting tool to cut off the finished part from the remaining workpiece.
Power Off and Cleanup: After completing the machining process, the operator powers off the lathe machine. Any chips, debris, or coolant generated during the machining operation are cleaned up to maintain a safe and clean work environment. The workpiece is then removed from the lathe machine.

It is important to note that the specific working process of a lathe machine can vary depending on the machine’s design, the type of operation being performed, and the level of automation or CNC control. However, the fundamental principles of securing the workpiece, positioning the cutting tool, and controlling the speed and feed remain consistent across lathe machine operations.

specification of lathe machine

The specifications of a lathe machine can vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. However, here are some common specifications that are often associated with lathe machines:

Swing Over Bed: The swing over bed refers to the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be accommodated on the lathe machine without any obstructions. It is measured from the lathe bed to the centerline of the spindle.
Swing Over Cross Slide: The swing over cross slide indicates the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be accommodated when the cutting tool is positioned on the cross slide. It is a smaller measurement compared to the swing over bed due to the limitations imposed by the cross slide.
Center Height: The center height refers to the distance from the lathe bed to the centerline of the spindle. It determines the maximum diameter of the workpiece that can be turned at the spindle’s midpoint.
Distance Between Centers: The distance between centers represents the maximum length of the workpiece that can be supported and machined between the headstock and tailstock. It defines the longitudinal travel capacity of the lathe machine.
Spindle Speed Range: The spindle speed range indicates the range of rotational speeds that can be achieved by the lathe machine’s spindle. It is typically measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). Different lathe models may have varying speed ranges, allowing for versatility in machining different materials and workpiece sizes.
Spindle Nose: The spindle nose refers to the type of interface at the end of the spindle where the workholding device or chuck is attached. Common spindle nose types include camlock, D-series, and threaded.
Taper of Spindle Bore: The taper of the spindle bore refers to the internal taper of the hollow spindle. It allows for the installation of various tooling accessories, such as collets or centers, which match the corresponding taper.
Feed Range: The feed range represents the range of feed rates available for the cutting tool during machining. It determines how quickly the tool moves along the workpiece during longitudinal and cross feeds.
Power and Motor Rating: The power and motor rating indicate the electrical power input required for the lathe machine. It is typically measured in kilowatts (kW) or horsepower (HP) and affects the machine’s cutting capacity and performance.
Control System: Lathe machines can be manually operated or equipped with computer numerical control (CNC) systems. CNC lathes offer automated control, programmability, and enhanced precision, allowing for complex machining operations and increased productivity.

These specifications can vary significantly among different lathe machine models and manufacturers. It is essential to refer to the specific machine’s documentation or consult with the manufacturer to obtain precise specifications for a particular lathe machine.

types of lathe machine

There are several types of lathe machines, each designed for specific applications and machining requirements. Here are some common types of lathe machines:

Engine Lathe: Also known as a center lathe or a bench lathe, an engine lathe is the most basic and widely used type of lathe machine. It is versatile and suitable for a wide range of machining operations. Engine lathes are manually operated and are often found in workshops, toolrooms, and educational settings.
Speed Lathe: A speed lathe is a lightweight and compact lathe machine primarily used for light-duty work. It is characterized by its high rotational speed and simplicity. Speed lathes are commonly used for tasks like polishing, grinding, and sanding, as well as for small-scale production of simple cylindrical shapes.
Gap Bed Lathe: A gap bed lathe features a removable section of the bed, creating a gap between the headstock and tailstock. This design allows for the machining of larger diameter workpieces that exceed the swing over bed capacity. Gap bed lathes are often used in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, and large-scale manufacturing.
Turret Lathe: A turret lathe, also known as a capstan lathe, is a type of lathe machine with a rotating tool turret mounted on the carriage. The turret holds multiple cutting tools, allowing for rapid tool changes and increased productivity. Turret lathes are commonly used for mass production of components with high precision and accuracy.
CNC Lathe: CNC (Computer Numerical Control) lathes are automated lathe machines that are controlled by computer programs. These machines offer precise control over cutting tools, feeds, and speeds. CNC lathes are highly versatile and can perform complex operations with minimal manual intervention. They are widely used in industries that require high precision, repeatability, and efficiency.
Vertical Lathe: Also known as a vertical turning lathe (VTL) or vertical boring mill (VBM), a vertical lathe has its spindle oriented vertically, with the workpiece mounted on a horizontal table. Vertical lathes are designed for heavy-duty machining of large, heavy workpieces. They are commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and power generation for turning large-diameter components like wheels, discs, and turbine rotors.
Copying Lathe: A copying lathe is a specialized lathe machine used to replicate intricate shapes or patterns. It uses a template or master workpiece to guide the cutting tool, allowing for the precise duplication of complex profiles. Copying lathes are commonly used in woodworking, furniture manufacturing, and ornamental turning.
Bench Lathe: A bench lathe is a compact lathe machine designed for small-scale and light-duty operations. It is commonly used for hobbyist projects, model making, and small-scale repairs. Bench lathes are portable and can be mounted on a workbench or table.

These are just a few examples of the types of lathe machines available. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for specific applications based on factors such as size, capacity, automation, and complexity of machining operations.

operations lathe machine

Lathe machines are versatile tools that can perform various machining operations. Here are some common operations that can be carried out on a lathe machine:

Turning: Turning is the primary operation performed on a lathe machine. It involves removing material from the workpiece to create a cylindrical shape. The cutting tool is fed parallel to the axis of rotation, and the workpiece rotates against the tool. Turning is used to create straight, tapered, or contoured surfaces, such as shafts, cylinders, and cones.
Facing: Facing is the process of creating a flat and smooth surface on the end or face of the workpiece. The cutting tool is fed radially across the rotating workpiece to remove material and achieve a flat surface that is perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Facing is commonly used to create precise mating surfaces, achieve proper alignment, or improve the appearance of the workpiece.
Drilling: Lathe machines can be equipped with a drill chuck or drilling attachment to perform drilling operations. This involves creating holes in the workpiece using a rotating drill bit. The lathe machine provides the necessary rotational motion, and the operator controls the feed rate and depth of the drilling operation.
Boring: Boring is the process of enlarging an existing hole or creating a precise internal cylindrical cavity. It involves rotating a single-point cutting tool inside the workpiece while the workpiece remains stationary. Boring is commonly used to achieve accurate dimensions, smooth surfaces, and precise alignment in components such as engine cylinders, bearing housings, and pipe fittings.
Threading: Threading is the process of creating external or internal threads on a workpiece. External threading involves cutting helical grooves on the outer surface of the workpiece, while internal threading involves cutting corresponding grooves on the inside of a hole. Lathe machines can perform threading operations using specialized threading tools or thread-cutting attachments. The operator controls the tool movement and feed rate to achieve the desired thread pitch and depth.
Taper Turning: Taper turning involves machining a workpiece to produce a gradual decrease or increase in diameter along its length, resulting in a tapered shape. The lathe machine’s carriage is set at an angle to the workpiece’s axis, allowing the cutting tool to traverse in both the longitudinal and transverse directions simultaneously. Taper turning is commonly used to create conical shapes, such as machine tool spindles, pipe fittings, and automotive components.
Grooving: Grooving is the process of creating narrow, straight, or curved recesses or grooves on the workpiece. It can be used to create keyways, slots, or decorative patterns. Lathe machines utilize specialized grooving tools to cut the desired groove width and depth.
Knurling: Knurling is a process of creating a pattern of ridges or serrations on the surface of the workpiece. It is done to enhance grip or provide a decorative effect. Lathe machines can be equipped with knurling tools that press against the rotating workpiece to create the desired knurled pattern.
Parting: Parting is the process of cutting off a part or section of the workpiece to separate it from the remaining material. Parting tools, which are thin and narrow, are used to make the cut. Parting is commonly used to create separate components or to remove excess material from the workpiece.

These are some of the main operations performed on a lathe machine. The versatility and precision of lathe machines make them valuable tools for a wide range of machining tasks in various industries.

application of lathe machine

Lathe machines are versatile tools that find applications in various industries and settings. Here are some common applications of lathe machines:

Turning: The primary application of a lathe machine is turning, where it is used to remove material from the workpiece to create cylindrical shapes. This can involve operations such as facing, tapering, contouring, and grooving. Turning is widely used in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing for producing shafts, cylinders, and other rotational components.
Threading: Lathe machines are often utilized for cutting threads on cylindrical surfaces. By using specialized tools and thread-cutting techniques, lathe machines can create precise and standardized threads on bolts, screws, and other threaded components. Thread cutting is essential in industries like construction, plumbing, and mechanical engineering.
Facing: Lathe machines are frequently employed for facing operations, where the cutting tool removes material from the end or face of the workpiece. This process ensures the end face is flat, smooth, and perpendicular to the workpiece’s axis. Facing is essential for achieving proper mating surfaces, ensuring accurate alignment, and improving aesthetics in various industries.
Drilling: With the use of a drill chuck or a specialized drilling attachment, lathe machines can perform drilling operations on workpieces. This capability allows for the creation of precise holes with consistent diameters and depths. The drilling function of lathe machines is utilized in industries such as metalworking, woodworking, and electrical equipment manufacturing.
Boring: Lathe machines are commonly used for boring operations, which involve enlarging existing holes in workpieces to achieve precise dimensions and tolerances. Boring is crucial for creating accurately sized holes in engine cylinders, bearing housings, and other components that require high precision and surface finish.
Knurling: Lathe machines can be equipped with knurling tools to create a textured pattern on the surface of a workpiece. Knurling provides improved grip and aesthetics on objects like handles, knobs, and tools. It is commonly used in the production of automotive parts, hand tools, and consumer goods.
Parting: The parting process involves cutting off a section of the workpiece to create separate components. Lathe machines equipped with parting tools can accurately cut through the workpiece, creating clean and precise separations. Parting is utilized in industries such as jewelry making, watchmaking, and general manufacturing for creating small parts and components.
Taper Turning: Lathe machines are capable of producing tapered surfaces by gradually reducing the diameter of the workpiece along its length. Taper turning is essential for applications that require conical shapes, such as cutting tool holders, machine tool spindles, and valve seats.
Knurling: Lathe machines can be equipped with knurling tools to create a textured pattern on the surface of a workpiece. Knurling provides improved grip and aesthetics on objects like handles, knobs, and tools. It is commonly used in the production of automotive parts, hand tools, and consumer goods.
Polishing and Finishing: Lathe machines can be utilized for polishing and finishing operations by using polishing compounds and attachments. This allows for achieving smooth and reflective surfaces on workpieces, improving their appearance and functional properties.

These are just a few examples of the applications of lathe machines. The versatility and precision of lathe machines make them valuable tools across various industries, including manufacturing, engineering, woodworking, and metalworking.

advantages of lathe machine

Lathe machines offer several advantages that make them a valuable tool in various industries. Here are some key advantages of lathe machines:

Versatility: Lathe machines are highly versatile and can perform a wide range of operations. They are capable of turning, threading, facing, drilling, boring, parting, and many other machining processes. This versatility allows for the production of a diverse range of components with different shapes, sizes, and specifications.
Precision: Lathe machines are known for their ability to achieve high precision and accuracy in machining operations. They enable the production of components with tight tolerances, ensuring proper fit, functionality, and interchangeability. The ability to control the movement of the cutting tool and the workpiece with precision leads to consistent and precise machining results.
Efficiency: Lathe machines are designed to improve efficiency in machining operations. They can remove material quickly and effectively, reducing production time and increasing productivity. The ability to perform multiple operations in a single setup further enhances efficiency and reduces the need for multiple machines or setups.
Flexibility: Lathe machines offer flexibility in terms of workpiece size and material. They can handle both small and large workpieces, allowing for a wide range of applications. Additionally, lathe machines can work with various materials such as metal, wood, plastic, and composites, providing flexibility in material selection for different industries and applications.
Customization: Lathe machines allow for customization and customization of components. They enable the creation of unique shapes, contours, and features according to specific design requirements. This is particularly beneficial in industries that require specialized or custom-made components.
Ease of Use: Lathe machines are relatively easy to operate, especially with modern advancements in machine controls and automation. They typically feature user-friendly interfaces, intuitive controls, and automated functions that simplify setup and operation. This ease of use reduces training time and increases operator efficiency.
Cost-Effective: Lathe machines offer cost-effectiveness in terms of production and maintenance. They can efficiently produce components in large quantities, reducing per-unit costs. Moreover, the maintenance and repair of lathe machines are generally straightforward, resulting in minimal downtime and lower maintenance expenses.
Skill Development: Operating a lathe machine requires a certain level of skill and expertise. By working with lathe machines, operators can develop valuable machining skills, including tooling knowledge, programming proficiency, and an understanding of machining principles. These skills are transferable and can be beneficial for career development in the manufacturing and machining industries.
Repair and Restoration: Lathe machines are widely used in repair and restoration work. They can be utilized to restore worn or damaged components by machining them back to their original specifications. This ability to repair and restore components extends their lifespan and reduces the need for expensive replacements.

These advantages make lathe machines an indispensable tool in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, construction, and many others. The combination of versatility, precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness makes lathe machines an essential asset for various machining applications.

disadvantages of lathe machine

While lathe machines offer numerous advantages, they also have some limitations and disadvantages that should be considered. Here are some of the disadvantages of lathe machines:

Size and Space Requirements: Lathe machines can be large and heavy, requiring a significant amount of floor space in the workshop. The size and weight of the machine can limit its installation in smaller workshops or spaces with limited room for equipment.
Initial Investment: Lathe machines can be a significant investment, especially for high-quality, precision models. The cost of purchasing a lathe machine, along with any necessary tooling and accessories, can be substantial, making it a capital-intensive purchase for businesses or individuals.
Learning Curve: Operating a lathe machine effectively requires training and experience. Understanding the machine’s controls, tooling, and machining techniques can take time to learn. The complexity of certain operations, such as threading or advanced turning techniques, may further increase the learning curve.
Limited Automation: While there are automated and computer-controlled lathe machines available, many traditional lathe machines require manual operation. This manual operation can be labor-intensive, as the operator needs to manually position and adjust the cutting tools, workpiece, and feed mechanisms.
Material Limitations: While lathe machines can work with various materials, they may have limitations when it comes to very hard or brittle materials. Machining materials such as hardened steel, ceramics, or certain composites may require specialized tooling, slower cutting speeds, or additional equipment.
Limited Complexity: While lathe machines are versatile, there are certain machining operations that may be better suited for other types of machines. For example, complex 3D shapes, intricate internal features, or extremely fine details may be more efficiently produced using CNC milling machines, wire EDM machines, or other specialized equipment.
Safety Considerations: Working with lathe machines involves inherent risks. The high-speed rotation of the workpiece and cutting tools can present hazards if proper safety measures are not followed. Operators must be cautious and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents or injuries.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Like any machinery, lathe machines require regular maintenance and servicing to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Routine inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and replacement of worn components are necessary to keep the machine in good working condition. Neglecting maintenance can lead to reduced accuracy, premature wear, and potential breakdowns.
Limited Mobility: Once set up, lathe machines are typically stationary and not easily moved. This lack of mobility can be a disadvantage if there is a need to transport the machine or reconfigure the workshop layout.

Despite these disadvantages, lathe machines remain valuable tools in many industries. By understanding these limitations and properly addressing them, operators can maximize the benefits and overcome challenges associated with lathe machine operation.

Reference : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lathe