Metalworking Want
| Cost | Make | Model | Weight | Overall Dimensions | Size | Motor | Imp/Metric LeadScrew | Powerfeed | Slide Locks | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Example | Example | Example | ||||||||
| Example | Example | Example | ||||||||
| Example | Example | Example |
Infinitely helpful: Youtube
Motor
Brushless DC is better - small, light yet more powerful, speed control for free.
Powerfeed
In order to enable power feed, cheap solutions clamp down on the lead screw to generate the feed, but the disadvantage is this wears out the lead screw. RPM of lead screw controlled by transmission, gearbox, quick change gears etc. pulling power off the spindle. Since there's limited space in gearbox for change gears, lathes that power the lead screw off the spindle often run too fast to cut threads easily. Expensive solutions add a second lead screw and power it separately. The middle ground is to have a keyway in the leadscrew (a notch that runs the length of the threaded rod), and tap power from the leadscrew using gearing inside the carriage. Power Cross-Feed is a feature that powers the carriage motion across the cutting area. It's enabled via a clutch on the carriage. These lathes should have a power feed clutch lever and a half-nut lever.
Slide Locks
Good lathes should have carriage locks, cross side locks and compound locks, which are easy to adjust.