Replies

1. 
   Pippins | Feb 20, 2006 08:55pm | #1

   Peter, you might try posting over at the AAW website:

   http://www.woodturner.org/

   There are just too many variables involved for their to be a single right answer.

   Steve Pippins

    

    

    

2. 
   sawdustandshavings | Feb 20, 2006 10:12pm | #2

   Hello peter,

   It should be noted that the "correct" speed is determined by a number of features of the work-piece, such as the diameter, the width or length, the weight, the hardness and density, and the fibre structure. To add to this there is the variability of turners' techniques and the choice of tools and bevel angles. Even if there was such a thing as a "correct" speed, the actual choice is likely to be a compromise when there may be only three speeds available.

   Please note, though, that even if it is not possible to choose the "correct" speed it is quite possible to choose the wrong speed. This is more likely to be too fast than too slow. I think it possible that many novices consider that high speeds (or the fastest practical speeds) are desirable. It is in fact much better (it is certainly safer) for the novice to drift on the low side when choosing a speed. If that seems too slow you can then move up to the next speed.

   The tendency to choose too high a speed not helped by the fact that some lathes on the market (or which may be purchased second hand) have a totally inappropriate range of speeds. (See the comments about lathes in Chapter 2.)

   As you get to know your machine, and your material,you will begin to know almost instinctively how fast it should be rotating for a particular job. Often the sound alone will provide sufficient information to you.

   Hope This Helps,

   p.s.i got this info from http://www.turningtools.co.uk/wtintro/spinturn9/spinturn9.html#9.4

   Sawdust.

   'It's not a mistake It's a design feature'