Lathe Speed

[ArizonaPete]

What's the best lathe speed (in RPM) to use when trimming a new tip and shaping it using a Utility Knife blade?

 

[jtrombetta]

I think at least half speed on a porper or unique, I've owned both. This will keep the blade from digging in or chipping out your tip. Be carefull that you don't hurt yourself though.

 

[ragbug74]

I trim/shape tips at top speed on my Hightower lathe, which I believe to be 1500-1600 RPM.

 

[dave sutton]

Speed is not the key. A ultra sharp cutting tool is the key. That's why utility blades are commonly used. Very sharp and when they are not toss it and get new. Cheap and disposible. Also wetting the leather help cut it and not deflect or move the leather.

 

[renegadej]

i definately agree that wetting it helps alot

 

[macguy]

What's the best lathe speed (in RPM) to use when trimming a new tip and shaping it using a Utility Knife blade?

I slow it down a little around 800 to 1000.

 

[cueman]

I prefer between 1300 and 2000 RPMs. I usually use the fastest speed on the Deluxe which is about 1550.

 

[Cue Guru]

I do my tip, ferrule and shaft joint work on a Hardinge Super-Precision tool room lathe (because I can, and there is nothing better for this type of work) and I set my spindle speed around 1100 RPM. I have not measured the actual RPM however... The Hardinge speed is infinitely variable over the range, so you have a bar graph that tells you more-or-less where you are.

I use a very small radius (around 0.003" i think) insert as well. Sharp tools and shallow cuts are key.

One of the many nice things about the Hardinge is that the carriage is not geared to the head (unless cutting threads) so I can change the traverse speed on the fly. Very nice lathe, but exceedingly expensive! :thumbup: