Processing Machinery Uses23

Processing Machinery Uses

A type of processing machinery that is used to create wooden objects is called a wood lathe. These objects can be functional and/or decorative. When using a wood lathe, the worker mounts the wood block in such a way that it stays stationary while turning on an axis. Various tools are then used to cut it and shape it into the desired design while it is spinning. There are two types of wood turners. Production turners make only functional items like ball bats and tool handles. Artistic turners are largely responsible for making decorative items.

Processing machinery are responsible for making furniture parts such as table legs, finials, spindles, and stretchers. Decorative serving dishes such as serving trays, platters and bowls can also be made with a lathe machine specially designed for that type of work. A mini lathe is used to manufacture pens, key rings, mechanical pencils along with many other small items. Miscellaneous decorative products such as pepper mills, chess pieces, candlesticks, baseball bats, pool cues and tool handles can also be made with a wood lathe.

In the past, the lathe has always been a hand crafting tool. The advent of processing machinery brought about the motorized lathe. Placing a motor on the lathe allowed for workers to create high quality work in shorter periods of time. The addition of the computer to the lathe machine automated the process, allowing manufacturers to mass produce products without the overhead of an operator for each machine. This is good, but there is still a high demand for hand-crafted products, especially in the furniture industry.

There are two different methods used by processing machinery that performs wood turning functions. They are called spindle turning and faceplate turning. Each method of turning on a wood lathe is used for a particular purpose. Spindle turning is good for cutting items such as table legs, baseball bats, and spindles for stairways. These items must be cut along the length of the wood. Face plate turning is used for creating platters, bowls, and dishes. The orientation of the grain in the wood determines the method of cutting. If the wood is cut wrong, the finish surface will be very rough and of low quality. The value of the product would then be significantly reduced.