Metal Lathe Select Language Risks & Hazards Hazard Control PPE General Safety Operating Safety Maintenance Safe Work Zones Operating Procedures The information contained in this SOP is general in nature. Refer to the relevant manufacturer's manual for specific operating information. The YouTube videos are included as a compliment to the information presented. Introduction The Metal Turning Lathe is a machine that rotates a piece of metal against fixed cutting tools. It is often called a centre lathe. In this way a variety of circular, conical, helical and cylindrical shapes can be produced. There are two main types of centre lathes beltdrive head lathes and geared head lathes. Major parts: Bed: These are the long flat rails that run the length of the machine. Upon the bed all other accessories are attached.
Headstock: This is a permanent fixture at the head of the lathe. Within the headstock are the gears, which govern the speed that your work piece will rotate. It also holds the two accessories that drive the work, i.e. chuck and faceplate Tailstock: This is clamped at the end of the lathe bed, and its function is to hold the 'dead' centre. This supports the end of long work pieces when turning "between centres". Cross slide: This combination is saddled across the bed. It can be moved along the bed or moved in and out to suit the work being turned. Identified Risks and Hazards General hazards that may arise when operating fixed metal machinery include: moving and rotating parts (bits, tool disintegration) movement of the workpiece electrocution from faulty equipment or incorrect use ejection of waste materials from the machining process burns from hot materials or friction hand and finger injuries from rotating spindles or pulleys squash, pinch and crush injuries noise from high speed cutters swarf being ejected from machines noise from high speed cutters
Specific hazards that may arise when operating the metal turning lathe include: Loose clothing, hair, jewellery can become caught. Dust and metal particles can enter eyes. Metal shavings can be a cutting hazard. The cutting tool can be propelled from the lathe. The chuck key can be propelled from the lathe if not removed. Have a look at this Understanding Hazards & Risks... Hazard Control Some methods of hazard control are more efficient than others, but a combination of methods usually provides a safer workplace than relying on only one method. Safe Work Australia How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice (PDF 368KB) >>> Have a look at this Hierarchy of controls...
This machine has the following year level user restriction. Why does OnGuard Safety advocate the guidelines developed by the NSW DEC? >>> Personal Protective Equipment Have a look at this Personal Protective Equipment... Pre operational Safety
The following safety checks and precautions should be carried out when preparing to set up, operate or maintain a metal turning lathe: The isolating switch should be in the OFF position. The lathe must be isolated from the main electricity supply when not in use. The lathe bed should be free of all material and tools. The work area should be clean and free of scrap and other obstacles. Ensure all guards are correctly fitted and secured. Check that the speed of the lathe is correct for diameter of the workpiece. The operator must have had instruction and training in the use of the lathe. Always seek and gain supervisor approval to carry on with the turning procedure. Check the following before switching on the power: The Spindle is free to revolve The Saddle is free on the Ways of the Bed The work piece is secure in the Chuck The CuttingTool is secure
The Chuck key has been removed from the chuck The Tailstock is secure if working between centres Operating Safety Precautions Ensure all other persons keep outside the safety zone at all times. Wear PPE to protect the eyes such as safety spectacles, goggles or an eye shield. Wear PPE as a hair restraint if the operator has long hair. Ensure that the workpiece is secure between the chuck and the bearing centre. Allow the lathe to reach maximum speed before applying the lathe bit. Keep the hands well away from the workpiece when the lathe is running. Ensure that all of the accessories are secure and the lathe bit is sharp. Position the lathe bit at the correct height and distance from the work piece. Revolve the workpiece by had once or twice
before starting the lathe to check the correct positioning of the tool post. Emery cloth should NEVER be held loose in the hand to polish the workpiece. The emery cloth should be applied using either a backing board of good quality wood or a 'nutcracker' consisting of two backing boards lined with emery cloth and joined at one end and shaped so that they may encompass the surface to be polished. Daily Maintenance Daily maintenance on a lathe should include checking the operation of the guards and switches, the crosslide play and the condition of the turning tools. Switches Electrically operated machines should be fitted with a flush green on or start switch and a red stop switch that has a raised mushroom shaped head for fast emergency contact. Safe Work Zone The following Safe Work Zone for this
machine is derived from a NSW state government education authority guide. Operating Procedures Always obtain permission from the supervisor before using the metal lathe. Obtain training and instructions in the safe and proper use of the metal lathe. Check that the correct speed for the diameter of the work piece has been selected. Ask the supervisor to check that the correct speed has been selected. Stop the lathe if any strange noises or vibrations are noticed. Notify the problem to
the supervisor immediately. Stop the metal lathe and make sure the workpiece is stationary when checking measurements. Never leave the metal lathe unattended when it is running. Return all equipment and tools to their correct storage place and clean the lathe when finished. Stop the lathe to make adjustments to tools, belts or taking measurements. Make sure guards on gear trains, back gears, pulleys and belts are in place at all times. Arrange wrenches, chuck keys and measuring tools etc. close to the working position. Place a timber board on the ways of the lathe when removing the chuck. Do not use the power when fitting the chuck to the Spindle. Stop the metal turning lathe when oiling and cleaning.
Take light cuts on long slender work pieces. The questions in the SOP knowledge test are general in nature. The manufacturer's manual is to be used to develop specific questions relevant to this tool or machine. Copyright 2014 OnGuard Safety Training Pty Ltd Australia Latest Revision Date: 16/ 12/ 2014