Lathe Operator how-to

How to Turn a Diameter on a Manual Lathe

Careful passes hit size.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Careful passes hit size. In short: chuck; indicate; set, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Chuck securely.

  2. Indicate runout.

  3. Set speed.

  4. Take roughing passes.

  5. Measure.

  6. Take a light finish pass.

Safety reminders for lathe operators

  • Remove chuck keys
  • No loose clothing or gloves near rotating parts
  • Wear eye protection
  • Use chip hooks

Chuck · Facing · Turning · Threading · Boring · Tailstock: see the full lathe operator glossary.

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