The center lathe or machine lathe has been been working on precise turning of metals for decades. By turning metal around on an axis you can make it round (i.e. a bar) you can taper it (cone) you can bore it out (cut into the bar to create tube) and much more.

The speed of the machine varies with materials and the type of cutting work.

When working with machines it is important that you adopt a full awareness of Health and Safety law, routines and practices. The Health and Safety Executive in the UK produce this guide for students, but you must always follow the training and supervision in the workshop.