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What is a woodturning machine and how does it work?

Illustration Drechselbank

A woodturning machine, also known as a lathe or lathe, is a machine tool that is primarily used to process workpieces made of wood, but also materials such as amber, soapstone, plexiglass or horn. The workpiece is clamped as a rotating body and shaped using tools (e.g. turning gouges).

spindelstock

Headstock
The headstock is the heart of the lathe, where the spindle, which is driven by the motor, is mounted. The spindle can accommodate various attachments such as chucks or centres. It has a through-hole with an MK2 cone and an M33 thread

reitstock

Tailstock
The tailstock supports the workpiece at its other end and provides additional stability. It can be moved and fixed along the machine bed. The quill can be extended to clamp a workpiece between the centres.

bankbett

Bench bed 
The bed is the base of the lathe and provides stability. It supports the headstock, tailstock and lower part of the cutter rest, as well as optional attachments.

untergestell

Base frame
The base frame supports the components of the machine. On our machines (Stratos, Twister, Midi), the underframe is made entirely of grey cast iron for greater stability and to reduce vibrations.

spindelstock

Frequency inverter
The frequency inverter ensures constant power transmission. Other functions include a soft start and a soft stop/motor brake or sockets.

reitstock

Tool rest
This support is used to guide the turning tool safely during work. It can be adjusted in height and distance to the workpiece.

bankbett

Mobile control box
The mobile control box is an innovation of our woodturning lathes. It can be placed anywhere on the lathe thanks to a magnet. This is a key argument in terms of safety and convenience.

untergestell

External turning device
An optional external turning device is available for many machines, with which particularly large diameters can be turned.

Key technical data of a woodturning machine