Learning to use small Unimat metal lathe

I decided to try and figure out how to use this on my own after not being able to find someone to teach me. It took a while but I'm finally able to make some decent cuts. Now I'm trying to come up with some projects that will require me to machine some small parts. I was thinking about a small steam engine but that may be too complicated

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• Unitmat
• metal
• Lathe
• machine
• build
• machining
• bit
• file
• the
• cut
• fabricate
• make

[dadnyfur]

The cutting speed depends upon the diameter of the metal you are cutting, Smaller =faster, larger =slower. How deep you cut depends upon the hardness of the material. These little machines can't take very big cuts, cutting oil may help. I sometimes use a motor speed control for some stuff, but it weakens the power of the motor. They have them at Harbor Freight for about $20.

[jonathandengle]

@dadnyfur

what is that thing exactly?

[dadnyfur]

You might be running too fast, judging by the heat your cut seems to be generating.

You can also spray WD40 on your lathe's metal surfaces to prevent rust buildup.

[jonathandengle]

@dadnyfur

thank you. The speed settings are what has been giving me the most problems. I know they are off most of the tijme but I dont know if I need to speed it up or slow it down. So I just mess with it until it makes a decent cut.

[TheToolReview]

What is the songs name ?

[jonathandengle]

@TheToolReview

Kottonmouth Kings- Positive Vibes

[broerbreaker9240Z]

@dadnyfur Also wich kinda steel your chisel is ;) HM or HSS

[iBsCraig]

there so easy to use with a tiny bit of experience

[TheGolipo]

yeah, too hot in there !

some lube will help, even lard... smells nice after a while ! ... lol

as far as i've seen motor has carbons in it, right?

same as the foredom and stuff...

well you can add a pedal plus a dimmer and you'll get exactly the speed you need.

[miketheknife2]

I just got a lathe, need something to kill time.Makeing air gun parts.Wish me luck.this did help .

[dadnyfur]

It is a box with a speed control knob. You plug you unimat into it,and plug the box into the wall outlet. It allows you to adjust the motor speed yo a very large range.