Southbend SB1001 User Manual

For Machines Mfg. Since 8/11

Model SB1001 8K

™

 Lathe

-33-

A live center (see Figure 35 for an example) 
has bearings that allow the center tip and the 
workpiece to rotate together—it can be installed 
in the tailstock quill for higher speeds. However, 
a live center typically does not provide the 
same level of rigidity as a dead center, and final 
workpiece accuracy can suffer as a result.

Figure 34 shows the MT#3 and MT#2 dead 
centers included with the lathe. In addition, an 
MT#3–MT#2 tapered spindle sleeve is included 
for mounting the MT#3 center in the spindle.

A dead center is a one-piece center that does not 
rotate with the workpiece and is used to support 
long, slender workpieces 

Use the dead center in the spindle for operations 
where the workpiece rotates with the center and 
does not generate friction.

When the dead center is used in the tailstock, 
the workpiece pivots on the tip of the center. The 
tip must be generously lubricated during the 
operation to avoid premature wear and maximize 
smooth operation. Using low spindle speeds will 
also reduce the heat and wear from friction.