10 best lathe machine for metal

A metal lathe is a specialized machine tool used for shaping and machining metal workpieces. It is a critical tool in the field of metalworking and manufacturing and is commonly used in various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and general machining. Here are some key aspects of metal lathes:

Basic Function: A metal lathe is designed to rotate a workpiece on its axis while a cutting tool is applied to remove material from the workpiece. This process allows for precision shaping, cutting, and turning of metal parts.
Components:
- Bed: The bed is the base of the lathe and provides stability and support for other components.
- Headstock: The headstock houses the spindle, which holds the workpiece. It also contains the motor that drives the spindle.
- Tailstock: The tailstock is located at the opposite end of the headstock and can be moved to support longer workpieces.
- Tool Rest: This is where the cutting tools are mounted, and it can be adjusted to control the depth and angle of cuts.
- Cross Slide: The cross slide is used to move the cutting tool horizontally and is essential for precise machining.
- Compound Rest: The compound rest allows for angular cuts and more complex machining operations.
Types of Metal Lathes:
- Engine Lathe: The most common type, used for general-purpose machining.
- Turret Lathe: Features a rotating tool turret, enabling quick tool changes for repetitive tasks.
- CNC Lathe: Controlled by computer-numerical-control, these lathes can execute complex machining operations with high precision.
- Gap Bed Lathe: Has a removable section in the bed to accommodate larger workpieces.
Operations:
- Turning: The process of removing material from the outer diameter of the workpiece to create a cylindrical shape.
- Facing: The process of cutting a flat surface at the end of a workpiece.
- Drilling: Using the lathe to drill holes in the workpiece.
- Boring: Enlarging an existing hole or creating precise internal features.
- Thread Cutting: Creating threads on the workpiece.
Safety: Operating a metal lathe requires strict adherence to safety procedures.This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, securing workpieces properly, and ensuring that all machine guards are in place.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep a metal lathe in good working condition. This includes lubrication, checking for wear on cutting tools, and inspecting the machine for any signs of damage or malfunction.
Applications: Metal lathes are used to create a wide range of metal parts, from simple bolts and nuts to complex aerospace components. They are essential in industries where precision machining is required.
Advancements: Modern metal lathes often incorporate computer control, automation, and advanced tooling systems to enhance accuracy and efficiency in machining operations.

In conclusion, metal lathes are versatile and indispensable tools in the field of metalworking, allowing for the precise shaping and machining of metal workpieces across various industries. Proper training and safety precautions are crucial when operating these machines to ensure both the quality of the work and the safety of the operator.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best lathe machine for metal on the market

Metal Lathe Machine， 6 in 1 Mini DIY Lathe Kit ， 24W 20000rpm， 110-240V， US Plug

Acogedor

Check latest price

❁❁❁❁❁The 6-in-1 kit can be used to assemble 6 different functions of machine tools (wire sawing machines, wood lathes, metal lathes, milling machines, drilling machines, sanders, hand-held machines), machines that can only use one of the functions at a time.
❁❁❁❁❁Main parts of machine tools: such as headstock, intermediate block, wire saw base, wire saw box, motor fan, gear, wooden tool holder, small slider (cross slide), long slider, drill presser, drill table, Wire saw table, connecting block, sandpaper tray, v
❁❁❁❁❁In addition to milling machines, other machine tools are safe and do not hurt the hand settings (children must use the milling machine under the direction of the parent or teacher).
❁❁❁❁❁The maximum sawing depth of wire sawing machine is 4mm for hardwood, 7mm for three plywood, 18mm for cork, 0.5mm for thin aluminum and 2mm for organic glass.
❁❁❁❁❁A good tool for families and school kids to make models and other woodworking models.

VEVOR Mini Metal Lathe 8"x14", Mini Lathe Machine 2250 PRM Variable Speed Change,Precision Mini Lathe 650W Metal Working Lathe, Small Metal Lathe, Milling Machine for Various Types of Metal Turning

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

【STURDY & DURABLE CONSTRUCTION】 - The mini lathe is made of high-quality cast iron which stands up to tear and wear. It is equipped with a 650W motor that delivers a great deal of energy. If you are into making models, it would be your professional assistant who has precise metric graduations and metal gears and therefore is punctilious.
【INFINITELY VARIABLE SPEEDS】 - Revolving Speed Range: 50-2250±10%. The mini lathe machine comes with variable speeds that give you the convenience to achieve the best work. This lathe allows you to work on both forward or reverse of any possible speed. The feeding rate can be adjusted manually or automatically. And an emergency button is accessible just in case.
【WORKS WITH PRECISION】 - Spindle Bore: 0.8"/21 mm. The metal working lathe is pre-installed with a 3-jaw chuck, 3.9"/100 mm in diameter, which clamps raw materials tight, and a backsplash guard that ensures your safety during operation.
【FASTER & MORE EFFECTIVE】 - Swing Over Bed: 8.3"/210 mm; Swing Over Cross Slide: 13.8"/350 mm. The small metal lathe features a turret post for quick tool change and a cross slide for free blade moving, making internal cutting, face cutting and bevel cutting possible.
【WIDE APPLICATION】 - The lathe produces precision work without taking up a lot of room in your shop or garage, making bushings, spindles, prototypes, models, and more.

Product features

Rigid Cast Iron

The milling machine is made of rugged and wear-resistant cast iron, a tough material that features a long service life.

Variable Speeds

The metal lathe comes with variable speeds of 50-2250±10%. Easily change the speed by turning the switch. Meanwhile, the indicator beyond notifies you of the ongoing operations.

3-Jaw Chuck

The mini lathe bears a 3-jaw chuck and a φ21 mm spindle bore. The chuck applies a P3 bearing which is widely used where precise machining is required and reaches high rotary speeds.

4-Way Turret Post

The 4-way turret post on the lathe is easy to adjust. And it is convenient to change the cutting tools. With the post, you can do bevel cuttings.

MT2 Tailstock

The lathe machine is equipped with a foot stock which gives support to the longitudinal rotary axis of a workpiece that you are gonna process.

Wide Application

The metal lathe machine works without taking up a lot of room in your shop or garage, making bushings, spindles, prototypes, models, and more.

8X14” Mini Metal Lathe

The mini lathe is custom for you who are into making models, a Do-it-yourself (DIY) machinist, or a gun hobbyist. You can use it to create threaded parts as well as small components made with precision. The small but powerful 210*350 mm lathe of a thread range of 10-44 T.P.I is the exact machine to fill in the vacancy in your garage.

Mophorn 18pcs/Set CJ0618 Lathe Mini Lathe Gears Metal Cutting Machine Gears Lathe Gears Metal Exchange Gear (18pcs/Set)

Mophorn

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

【18 PCS GEAR KITS】- Pack of 18 Set: 2 x T80 gears, 2 x T60 gears, 2 x T50 gears, 2 x T45 gears, 2 x T40 gears, 2 x T30 gears, 1 x T35 gears, 1 x T25 gears, 1 x T20 gears, 2 x Metal change gear set, 1 x timing belt pulley.
【HIGH-QUALITY METAL MATERIAL】- Made of high quality metal, rust-proof treatment on the surface of gears for durability and long time use.
【PRECISION POLISHED】- The gears are milled by pricing milling skill to ensure high precision.
【EASY TO ASSEMBLE】- A mounting wrench is provided that it is easy for your instant installation.
【EXTENSIVE COMPATIBILITY】- 18pcs/set CJ0618 gears is compatible with mini lathe, metal cutting machine.

Acogedor Mini Metal Lathe,60W High Power Mini Lathe,Wood Lathe Drilling Sanding Turning Milling Sawing Machine Tool Kit,High-Accuracy and Durable, for Wood Plastic, Soft Metal,12000RPM

Acogedor

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★★★★★Machine tool with powerful motor, the motor box and spindle box for conjoined structure.
★★★★★Main parts: such as the spindle box, tailstock, long stand, size slider, motor blade, gear, connecting block are made of metal materials, with belt protection cover.
★★★★★Center height is 75mm and distance between centers is 135mm, motor speed normally drops to 2000rpm when using the lathe to machine metal.
★★★★★Maximum motor power is 60W by using more powerful motor.
★★★★★Turning tool is high - speed steel material, can process soft, non - ferrous, precious metals. By using central block, the diameter can be expanded to 50mm.

User questions & answers

Question:	is good for metal
Answer:	Mini metal lathe is very practical and convenient， And Turning tool is high - speed steel material, can process soft, non - ferrous, precious metals. By using central block, the diameter can be expanded to 50mm.

Eastwood Benchtop Mini Metal Variable Speed Lathe 7" x 12" Drilling Machine

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Home workshop-friendly size
Auto-feed and selectable gear train components
Inside and outside 3-Jaw Chuck set included
Includes HSS Cutting tools
3/4 HP motor

User questions & answers

Question:	Could this be used to cut threads
Answer:	They come in different sizes and the measurements are attached to the product description for each desk.
Question:	What are you hiding in the picture with the grey box? What are you hiding? Why wont you answer
Answer:	VaiDesk has one with an electric lift but this one doesn’t, but this one lifts my monitors and other items like they were weightless
Question:	Can the nylon gears be replaced with metal gears
Answer:	It might be tight. my desk that I have it on is 20"
Question:	Does this have plastic drive gears
Answer:	It holds my 36” just fine

Product features

Benchtop Mini Metal Lathe - 7"

CONTENTS

Mini Lathe,Lathe Tool Kit,Lathe with Powerful Motor 12000Rpm,Hss Turning Tool, Belt Protection Cover,60W Power Metal Machine

Jectse

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:

Machine tool with powerful motor, the motor box and spindle box for conjoined structure. Main parts: such as the spindle box, tailstock, long stand, size slider, motor blade, gear, connecting block are made of metal materials, with belt protection cover. Center height is 75mm and distance between centers is 135mm, motor speed normally drops to 2000rpm when using the lathe to machine metal. Maximum motor power is 60W by using more powerful motor. Turning tool is high - speed steel material, can process soft, non - ferrous, precious metals. By using central block, the diameter can be expanded to 50mm.

Specification:

Condition: 100% brand new

Metal: Metal

Weight: 4990g/176oz

Motor Speed: 12000rpm

Input Voltage/Current/Power: 12V DC/5A/60W

X-Axis travel: 32mm

Z-Axis travel: 145mm

Max Diameter of Machined Material: 100mm

Length of Machined Material: 135mm

Machining Accuracy: 0.07mm

Package Includes:

1 x Mini Lathe

1 x Adapter

1 x Power Cord

1 x Accessory Package

1 x Machine Bottom Plate

1 x User Manual

Machine tool with powerful motor, the motor box and spindle box for conjoined structure.
Main parts: such as the spindle box, tailstock, long stand, size slider, motor blade, gear, connecting block are made of metal materials, with belt protection cover.
Center height is 75mm and distance between centers is 135mm, motor speed normally drops to 2000rpm when using the lathe to machine metal.
Maximum motor power is 60W by using more powerful motor.
Turning tool is high - speed steel material, can process soft, non - ferrous, precious metals. By using central block, the diameter can be expanded to 50mm.

User questions & answers

Question:	is good for metal
Answer:	The existing tool is .164 square by ~ 2" long. It can be reshaped with a grinding wheel. There wasn't a extra tool order form with the unit. There are cutter sets available from Grizzley and Harbor Freight Tools, but I have not ordered yet
Question:	Where can you buy the parts for the converted over to cnc thanks in advance
Answer:	It has a pass through hole but only 6mm
Question:	can this lathe process titanium, brass, tungsten, damascus steel etc
Answer:	8X8mm
Question:	does it come with any metal cutting tools
Answer:	120v

12000RPM 6 in 1Multipurpose Mini Lathe,Versatile Metal Lathe Tool,Sawing Machine,Grinder, Driller,Wood Lathe,Metal Lathe,Miller,Precision Lathe Chuck,Made of Advanced Metal, Durable,Non-Deformable

Jectse

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features:

1. Mini 6 in 1 lathe machine for DIY assembly of sawing machine, grinder, driller, wood lathe, metal lathe, miller.

2. Great handcraft tool kit for DIY, hobby, model making, crafts, students, small parts processing, etc.

3. Made of advanced aluminum alloy and zinc alloy, durable and non-deformable for usage.

4. Very interesting to install and use, perfect gift for lathe DIY enthusiasts.

5. This mini multipurpose machine can be assembled into 6 kinds of different lathes, but you can use only one kind of these lathes at the same time.

Specification:

Condition: 100% Brand New

Motor Speed: 12000Rpm

Input Voltage/Current/Power: 12VDC/2A/29W

Work Table Area: 90mm x 90mm

The Maximum Sawing Depth Of The Wire Saw is 4mm for Hardwood, 18mm for Softwood, 7mm for Three Plywood, 0.5mm for Thin Aluminum, and 2mm for Plexiglass.

Drilling Parameter:

Motor Speed: 12000Rpm

Input Voltage/Current /Power: 12VDC/2A29W

Slider Stroke: 30 and 50mm

Chuck: 1-6mm

Vise Clamping Size: 25 * 35mm

Work Table Area: 123 * 100mm

Package List:

1 Set of 6 in 1 Woodworking Tool

High quality: Made of advanced aluminum alloy and zinc alloy, durable and non-deformable for usage.
Multipurpose: Mini 6 in 1 lathe machine for DIY assembly of sawing machine, grinder, driller, wood lathe, metal lathe, miller.
Application: Great handcraft tool kit for DIY, hobby, model making, crafts, students, small parts processing, etc.
Note: This mini multipurpose machine can be assembled into 6 kinds of different lathes, but you can use only one kind of these lathes at the same time.
Jectse: at Jectse, If you have any question or need some suggestion about the products we sold, please feel free contract us, we have a professional team who can always give you best service and solve your problems. Thanks for you business.

BestEquip Metal Lathe 8x16 Inch,Mini Metal Lathe Infinitely Variable Speed 2250RPM,Precision Lathe Machine 750W,Metal Working Lathe, Small Metal Lathe,for Precision Parts Processing

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

【INFINITELY VARIABLE SPEED】- The mini metal lathe is driven by powerful motor. Variable Speed: 0-2250RPM. The LED screen shows you a clear and accurate speed for accurate working. Operate either manually or with the adjustable auto feed rate. Spindle Accuracy: 0.0004-0.0012" (0.01-0.03 mm).
【750MM LARGE SWING RANGE】- The benchtop lathe brings a 3-jaw chuck. Swing Over Bed: 8-1/4" (210 mm) and Swing Over Cross Slide: 29.5"/750mm offers more possibilities for large size or/and heavy workpieces. One 4-Jaw chuck is included.
【PROFESSIONAL COMPOUND REST】- The mini lathe machine quick change tool post can achieve positions of internal cutting, face cutting, and bevel cutting by changing the tool post angle and adjusting the compound rest, moving blades freely with feed rod. 4-Way turret tool post (3/8" max tool size).
【SUPPORTIVE & PROTECTIVE】- Soft start, change-over switch for clockwise or counter-clockwise spindle rotation. Equipped with all-metal gears. Steady rest works as end support ensuring chatter-free operation. Backsplash guard included.
【ADJUSTABLE TAILSTOCK】- Taper in Tailstock Spindle: MT2. Rotate the lever clockwise to lock the spindle and rotate clockwise to advance the handwheel. To off-set the tailstock for cutting tapers by adjusting the four set screws located on the tailstock base. Travel: compound rest 2-1/8" (54mm), cross slide 3" (76mm).

User questions & answers

Question:	How is it at cutting carbon steel
Answer:	It is capable of being set up to cut steel.
Question:	Do you offer this mini lathe with an attached milling machine
Answer:	Bad machine bad company be warned.
Question:	How do we choose the 110v version
Answer:	I didnt know of a 220v version..
Question:	How is this lathe shipped? is it ups or truck freight
Answer:	Truck Freight

Product features

Variable Speed Design

Motor Power: 0.75KW, Variable Speed(Rpm): 0-2250. LED screen, Spindle Accuracy: 0.0004-0.0012" (0.01-0.03 mm).

Large Swing Range

Swing Over Bed: 8-1/4" (210 mm), Swing Over Cross Slide: 15-3/4" (400mm), 3-Jaw Chuck Diameter: 4.9"/125mm.

4-way Tool Rest

Offers positions of internal cutting, face cutting and bevel cutting. Heat hardening lead screw is reversable by turning A & B handle.

Supportive & Protective

Steady rest for fixing large size pieces. Two backsplash guards.

Accurate Tailstock

Taper in Tailstock Spindle: MT2. Adjusting set screws to make accurate operation.

Wide Application

Can be used in areas such as mini precision parts processing, sample processing and modeling works.

8'' x 16'' Variable Speed Metal Lathe

This precision 8" x 16" Lathe is designed to perform various types of metal. It can be used in areas such as mini precision parts processing, sample processing and modeling works. It features variable-speed spindle with high and low speed ranges and convenient quick-lock tailstock.

Infinitely Variable Speed
750mm Large Swing Range
Professional Compound Rest
Supportive & Protective
Adjustable Tailstock

Package Content

Mini Metal Lathe Machine CNC DIY Tool Benchtop Wood Lathe Woodworking for Hobby Sience Education Modelmaking, AC100V~240V 50/60HZ

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Application:

Youth Activity Center, School General Technical Room, Science and Technology Activity Room Equipment, Science and Technology Museum Student Science and Technology Creation.

Main parts of the machine:

The main components of the main shaft box, intermediate block, connecting block, tailstock, large slider, small slider, hand wheel, support and so on are made of metal. The quality of the product is improved, more durable and more precise.

Parameter:

●Input voltage: AC100V~240V 50/60HZ

●Output voltage : DC12V 2A

●Motor rated power: 24W

● Motor speed: High speed motor 20000r/min ± 15%

● Low speed motor: 10000r/min ± 15%

● Spindle speed: high speed motor 3000r/min±15%

● Low speed motor: 1600r/min ± 15%

● Spindle jump: <0.1mm

● Large slider stroke: 45mm

●Small slider stroke: 35mm

●Center height: 25mm

●Center distance: 110mm

●Maximum processing diameter: 13mm positive claw, 45mm reverse claw

●Three-jaw chuck clamping diameter: 13mm claw, 45mm reverse claw

●Handle scale: 0.1mm/division

●Packing size: 230mm*200mm*315mm

●Weight: 2.2KG

●Connection method: M12 * 1 screw hole

●Minimum clamping size: 1.5mm * 1.5mm

●Maximum clamping size: 18mm * 18mm

●Processing ability: It can process soft metals such as copper and aluminum.

Package include：

1x A set of min lathe

This is a mini desktop lathe which can used for turning, drilling, boring, threading and other processing.
Made of advanced aluminum alloy, durable and non-deformable for usage.
Processing Materials: Wood, Plastic, Aluminum, Copper and other Soft Metal
Three-jaw chuck clamping diameter: 13mm claw, 45mm reverse claw
Processing ability: It can process soft metals such as copper and aluminum.

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this a true CNC lathe with stepper motors installed
Answer:	It only has a stepper motor in the head. Its a manual lathe.
Question:	Can this cut copper for jewelry like rings
Answer:	Dear friend, Sure. It can cut Wood and Soft Metals. It is teaching equipment.
Question:	can the bed be extended
Answer:	Yes, Long base block available on AliExpress CHINESE!!!! web site. Search mini late parts.
Question:	Do you have a quick change tool post holder for this mini lathe
Answer:	I'd just make something

60W Mini Rotating Lathe,12000RPM Metal Rotating Lathe,Mini Lathe Machine Lathe Machine Tools,for Wood Metal Glass Plastic Machining

Liccx

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specification:

Motor Speed: 12000rpm

Input Voltage/Current/Power: 12V DC/5A/60W

Axis X travel: 32mm

Axis Z travel: 145mm

Max Diameter of Machined Material: 100mm

Length of Machined Material: 135mm

Machining Accuracy: 0.05mm

Working Material: Lignin plastic, soft metal (gold, silver, copper, aluminum etc.), plexiglass, plastic

Package Weight: Approx. 5.35kg/188.7oz

Package list:

1 * Mini Rotating Lathe

✔〚Specification〛: ⓵Motor Speed: 12000rpm ⓶Input Voltage/Current/Power: 12V DC/5A/60W ⓷Axis X travel: 32mm ⓸Axis Z travel: 145mm ⓹Max Diameter of Machined Material: 100mm ⓺Length of Machined Material: 135mm ⓻Working Material: Lignin plastic, soft metal (gold, silver, copper, aluminum etc.), plexiglass, plastic
✔〚Main parts〛: headstock, tailstock, long machine bed, big slider, small slider, motor blade, gear, connection block, belt cover etc. All of the parts are made of metal except belt cover.
✔〚60W Maximum Motor Power〛: Maximum motor power is 60W by using more powerful motor.With 0.02mm accuracy of scale lines, the hand wheel increases the precision of workpiece machining.
✔〚180° spin Axis Z slider〛: Motor case and headstock are jointed. Axis Z slider can spin 180°.Center height is 75mm and distance between centers is 135mm, motor speed normally drops to 2000rpm when using the lathe to machine metal.
✔〚Use Range〛: Lathe tool is made of high speed steel material, which can machine soft metal, nonferrous metal and precious metal. By using central block, the diameter can be expanded to 50mm.