Lathe Cutter Centering Tool

thingiverse

This is an indispensable tool for synchronizing your cutters with the rotational axis of your lathe. This will help prevent catastrophic failure from facing with a tool set too high, or subpar surface finish with the tool set too low. Alternatively, if it's not to your liking. Instructions To put this device together you will need: One precision bearing capable of 608z load requirements. Readily available online. One 5/16 steel rod about 3 inches in length. You can opt for circlip grooves to keep the bearing in place, but two O-rings will suffice and make dis-assembly a breeze. One 9x40mm cylindrical bubble level. You can order them online, 10 at a time. One precision socket cap screw measuring 10-32 x 1 inch with jam nut (A cone point set screw works as a fine-tuned substitute) The bearing must be fitted into the part without forcing it; simply hand insert the spirit level and adjust accordingly. Tune to your lathe settings by aligning the flat base of the tool on your lathe cross slide parallel to the chuck face. Insert your adjusting screw until contact is made with the cross slide, lightly tighten the jam nut for security and stability. You are ready for prime-time! For ultra high precision enthusiasts, a finish facelift can precede calibration. 2D design files are provided online as additional options.