Denford Software & Machines

I have recently bought a TDS 1/1, can anyone tell me what size tooling was originaly used on these lathes as i cant find any reference on this, most seem to think its 12mm x 12mm

It's really a case of using what you can find that fits!
The maximum tool size will obviously be determined by the toolpost, and getting the tool tip at the centre height is done using shims/packers for a fixed toolpost, or using the height adjustment in the Dickson or Aloris types of toolpost.

Tools ground from HSS tool blanks will always need to be individually set for height anyway.

It also depends on what kind of work you are doing. For small work in 'easier' materials (brass, plastic, etc), a smaller tool can be better as it does not obscure the work so much, can fit into small corners and pockets, and there is no problem with stiffness.

Andy

Thanks for the reply, can you tell me more about the Aloris types of toolpost, which one would you recommend, im having all sorts of problems with the lathe at the moment, as its not turning parts true, more like eliptical and off centre, im using a 4 jaw independant chuck on it, any suggestions on how to set it up, sorry im just a beginner
Thanks

I think you would do well to search for posts on ' youtube ' there are plenty of videos on setting up a four jaw independant chuck, and also lots of very informative videos on all manner of turning operations.
As the saying goes, ' a picture tells a thousand words ' a video will tell tens of thousands.
Do you have a three jaw scroll chuck ? if so you should use that for most normal turning.

John

I would suggest you have look at some of the you tube machinists channels.
ABOM79, Doubleboost, Keith Fenner etc,etc.
They are usually entertaining and will help you pick up some knowledge.

Other good youtube channels with loads of good info - mrpete222 - just posted a 9 part series on building a stuart engine form castings lots of good information on setting parts up in the lathe also keith Rucker posts some good stuff on lathe work.

The 4 jaw independent chuck is awkward to setup until you have had some practice but doubleboost has posted some good videos on this subject. As mentioned most people tend to use a 3 (or 4) jaw self centering chuck as it basically sets the work on centre for you.

I use a quick change toolpost which will take up to 16mm square toolbits and is very handy as you do not need to set up each tool everytime that you use them.

All the best

dakes55 wrote:Thanks for the reply, can you tell me more about the Aloris types of toolpost, which one would you recommend, im having all sorts of problems with the lathe at the moment, as its not turning parts true, more like eliptical and off centre, im using a 4 jaw independant chuck on it, any suggestions on how to set it up, sorry im just a beginner
Thanks

This is a quick change toolpost on Ebay:
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Piston-Type-Q ... SwN6JY~Lu-
I have the wedge type version of this and it works fine.
(It might be a bit cheaper from some of the UK toolsuppliers not on Ebay BTW)

Les.T.

Thanks for every ones advice

Hi
I have standardized on 16mm tool holders for carbide tooling. I still use HSS a lot. I prefer 5/16 or 3/8 for that.
Dazz