Making a Tool Post for the BIG Lathe! | Part 1 | Shop made Tools

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of making a standard 4-position tool post for a lathe, inspired by the "Making a Tool Post for the BIG Lathe!" video by Cutting Edge Engineering Australia. This project is perfect for machinists looking to enhance their lathe capabilities by creating a custom tool holder. We'll cover everything from material selection to machining processes, ensuring you can replicate this project in your workshop.

Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools

To start, you will need the following materials and tools:

Materials

• 210mm square bis alloy 80 grade high tensile plate

Tools

• Hafco TM-26120G Centre Lathe
• Hafco BM-63VE Milling Machine

Practical Advice

• Ensure your work area is clean and organized before starting.
• Familiarize yourself with the specifications of your tools to ensure safe operation.

Step 2: Face the Plate

The first machining step is to face all the sides of the high tensile plate.

Process

1. Secure the plate in the lathe.
2. Use the facing tool to remove excess material, achieving a flat surface on all sides.

Practical Advice

• Take shallow cuts initially to avoid stressing the material.
• Measure the thickness frequently to ensure uniformity.

Step 3: Drill and Bore Holes

Next, you will need to drill and bore holes in the plate for the tool post.

Process

1. Drill holes for the 12 bolts required for securing the tool holders.
2. Use the boring tool to enlarge and precision fit the holes if necessary.

Practical Advice

• Use cutting fluid to extend tool life and improve finish quality.
• Ensure the drill bits are sharp to avoid excessive force and potential breakage.

Step 4: Mill Slots for Tool Holders

Mill the slots that will hold the tools in place.

Process

1. Secure the plate on the milling machine.
2. Use an end mill to cut the necessary slots for the tool holders.

Practical Advice

• Plan the slot dimensions carefully to ensure compatibility with your tools.
• Make multiple passes if the slots are deep to avoid tool breakage.

Step 5: Drill and Countersink for Locking Dowel Pin

Create a hole for the locking dowel pin.

Process

1. Drill a hole at the designated location for the dowel pin.
2. Use a countersink bit to create a recess for the pin head.

Practical Advice

• Double-check the measurements to ensure the pin fits correctly.
• Clean the area around the hole to prevent debris from affecting the fit.

Conclusion

You've now completed the essential steps to create a 4-position tool post for your lathe. This project not only enhances your lathe's functionality but also provides valuable hands-on experience in machining. For further refinement and testing of the tool post, watch Part 2 of the video to see the finishing touches and practical applications. Remember to take your time during each step and prioritize safety in your workshop. Happy machining!