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EST 2020 - Lathe & Cutting Tools Operation


Clock Hours: 24

Delivery Mode
on-ground

Course Description:
This course provides hands-on training and theoretical knowledge in the safe and effective operation of a lathe and associated cutting tools.  Students will explore the major components and functions of the lathe, develop skills in workpiece setup using chucks and centers, and gain expertise in tool sharpening, speed/feed calculation, and common turning operations.  The course emphasizes standard, industry safety procedures and precision measurement techniques as students prepare for advanced machining tasks and careers as a multi-craft professional in the field of engineering systems technology and industrial maintenance. 

Student Learning Outcomes:

  1. Identify lathe components and functions 

  • Describe how a lathe operates 
  • Identify and explain the functions of the major parts of a lathe. 

  • Demonstrate proper lathe cleaning, lubrication, and safety procedures. 

  1. Demonstrate safe lathe setup and operation 

  • Prepare a lathe for operation following safety protocols. 

  • Operate the lathe using various work-holding devices including chucks, centers, and face-plates. 

  1. Use and maintain cutting tools 

  • Identify different types of cutting tools including HSS, carbide-tipped, and indexable inserts. 
  • Explain the nomenclature and shapes of cutting tools. 
  • Sharpen high-speed steel cutting tools using correct techniques and safety precautions. 
  • Utilize the cutter bit gauge for tool shaping. 

  1. Calculate cutting speeds and feeds 

  1. Identify factors affecting cutting speed and feed rates. 

  1. Accurately calculate cutting speeds and feeds using standard formulas. 

  1. Differentiate between rough and finishing cuts and determine appropriate depths of cut. 

  1. Perform turning between centers 

  1. Set up a lathe for turning between centers. 

  1. Drill proper center holes and check for center alignment. 

  1. Perform operations such as roughing, finishing, facing, shoulder turning, and grooving. 

  1. Safely use lathe dogs and live/dead centers. 

  1. Operate and evaluate lathe chucks 

  1. Install and align work in 3-jaw and 4-jaw chucks. 

  1. Compare advantages/limitations of various chuck types including collect and Jacob chucks. 

  1. Perform safe chuck mounting, parting operations, and tool alignment checks. 

  1. Apply precision measurement and alignment techniques 

  • Use appropriate measurement tools to ensure part accuracy. 

  • Align centers and cutting tools precisely for high-quality results. 

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in basic lathe operations 

  1. Execute operations such as facing, plain turning, turning to length, shoulder turning, and parting. 

  1. Evaluate machined parts for conformance to specifications and tolerances. 

  1. Communication using technical terminology 

  1. Apply and define key technical terms such as compound rest, cross-slide, tail stock, and indexable insert.