Turning Introduction

Turning is a foundational machining process for shaping cylindrical parts.

The workpiece rotates on a lathe's spindle, while a single-point cutting tool is precisely moved along its length or across its face to remove material. This method is ideal for creating axisymmetric geometries, such as shafts, disks, and tapered forms.

Common operations include facing to create flat ends, turning to reduce diameter, and grooving. While modern CNC lathes dominate industry, manual turning remains vital for prototyping, repair work, and skilled trades.

The process is valued for its ability to achieve excellent surface finishes, tight dimensional tolerances, and high concentricity, forming the basis for a vast range of mechanical components.