Metal Lathe Training

This page is to coordinate people offering and requiring training on the machine tools (lathe, mill and 3-in-1). If you have previous experience you will normally be allowed to use the small lathe and mill freely, and the 3-in-1 after a short induction session (to cover any queries and provide a brief guide and warnings).

The problem with these machines is that there are hundreds of techniques to learn and much needs to be done hands-on, so it isn't practical to run lectures. You will only need to learn basic rules and the techniques important to you, but getting started and gaining a proper respect for the machines to ensure your and their safety requires some instruction. Even this requires a reasonable effort from people willing to offer training so don't expect quick action. Once you have learned to use the machine safely, you will have to acquire more knowledge through asking people, reading books, and from internet resources.

If you have no previous experience you will need much more careful training probably in small groups or one-on-one. It will probably be best to do some initial sessions on the small machines and move to the 3 in 1 if required or when ready. This need not be long unless you're especially hamfisted.

Name	Offered / wanted	Skill level	When available
Russsss	offered	??	??
Spooq	offered	??	??
Adrian	offered	familiar with other machines, less so on LHS machines	When you can catch me, or arrange
R. Hacker	mentor wanted	zilch	evenings but not mondays
S. Hacker	induction wanted for 3in1	already familiar	tuesday night or as arranged