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Module 2: Metal Lathe Operations

Overview

This module covers fundamental metal lathe operations: facing (producing a flat surface perpendicular to the axis), turning (producing a cylindrical surface), boring (producing a hole or enlarging an existing hole), threading (cutting external and internal threads), parting (cutting off a completed workpiece), and taper turning (producing a conical surface). By module completion, students will be able to set up a workpiece and perform all basic operations.

Learning Objectives

  1. Mount a workpiece in a chuck and verify true alignment
  2. Perform a facing cut to produce a flat, perpendicular surface
  3. Turn a cylindrical surface to specification
  4. Perform boring operations (hole enlargement, internal cylindrical surface)
  5. Cut external and internal threads
  6. Perform parting cuts to separate completed workpiece
  7. Produce a taper using compound rest or taper attachment
  8. Apply coolant appropriately and manage chip evacuation

Module Structure

  • Slide 1: Workpiece Mounting & Alignment (Chuck Truing)
  • Slide 2: Facing & Perpendicular Surface Technique
  • Slide 3: Turning Operation & Diameter Control
  • Slide 4: Boring & Internal Operations
  • Slide 5: Threading (External & Internal), Parting, Tapers

Assessment

  • Practical: Mount and true a workpiece in chuck
  • Operations demonstration: Perform facing, turning, boring on supervised workpieces
  • Project: Machine a simple part requiring facing, turning, boring
  • Measurement verification: Verify dimensions with calipers or micrometer
  • Tool change and coolant management check

Time Allocation

  • Instructor Delivery & Demonstration: 3 hours
  • Hands-on Supervised Practice: 7 hours
  • Project & Assessment: 2 hours
  • Total Module Time: 12 hours

Prerequisites

  • Module 1: Machine Tool Fundamentals

Resources

  • Operating metal lathe with DRO (Digital Readout) or micrometer carriage feeds
  • Three-jaw and four-jaw chucks
  • Cutting tools (turning inserts, boring bars, parting tool)
  • Cutting fluid (coolant) for the material being machined
  • Test workpieces (mild steel, aluminum)
  • Measuring tools: dial calipers, outside micrometer
  • Chip brush for safe chip removal
  • Threading dial or leadscrew information
  • OEM machine manual with specifications

Module Version: 1.0 Created: 2026-03-15