Centering The Work - Axminster AWVSWL1200D User Manual

WOODLATHE MANUAL
The cutting technique, by virtue of faster wood removal and a cleaner surface, is the
preferred method.

CENTERING THE WORK

Wood stock for any spindle turning should be approximately square, and the ends
should be square with the sides. Two common methods of determining the center are
shown in Figs. 11 and 12. In Fig. 11, a distance a little more or a little less than
one-half the width of the stock is set off from each of the four sides. The small square
set off in the center can then be used in marking the true center. The diagonal
method, Fig. 12, consists of drawing lines from corner to corner, with the intersection
marking the center of the work.
Fig.13 Fig.14
After marking each end, mark the true center with a punch awl or dividers (Fig. 13). If
the stock is hardwood, the centers should be drilled to a depth of about 1/8". The
spur or live center is then placed against one end of the work and seated by striking
with a mallet (Fig. 14). In hardwood, make a starting seat for the spur center by
sawing on the diagonal lines, and drilling a small hole at the intersection. After driving
the center, hold the center and the work together and fit both immediately to
headstock spindle. If you are not using a ball bearing center, the end of work at
tailstock center should be oiled. Place the lubricant on the wood either before or after
it is put on the lathe. Many turners use beeswax, tallow, or a wax-and-oil mixture as a
lubricant. A ball bearing center is ideal because it eliminates lubricating. If the work is
to be removed from the lathe before completion, an index mark should be made as a
guide for re-centering (Fig. 15). A permanent indexer can be made by grinding off
one corner of one of the spurs.
Fig.15 Fig.16
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