- Joined
- Apr 17, 2024
- Messages
- 8
I own and operate a small makerspace in Waltham, MA. We currently have a Harbor Freight 7 x 16 mini-lathe.
I am hoping to apply for a grant to get a new lathe, and could use some advice. I have attempted to answer the questions indicated in the "Guidelines when asking buying advice" below. There are a dizzying array of lathe options available, and I am hoping folks can help me narrow the choices down to a single brand. Any recommendations on what lathe would be best to ask for for the grant would be appreciated.
What is Your Knowledge & Experience with Lathes?
I took a class on basic manual machining many years ago, and have used the mini lathe off and on since. The lathe would be used to teach new makerspace members machining and also for folks who are experienced with machining to make parts for their projects, so the intended user would range from no experience to moderate experience.
Machine & Tooling Budget?
Budget is about $17k for the machine and tooling. I think some of the tooling from the mini lathe and the milling machines we already have in the makerspace can be re-used.
Lathe Functions?
Thread cutting without having to physical remove and replace gears would be great, ideally in inch and metric, with a DRO.
Type/Size of Intended Workpieces?
Some members have expressed an interest in gunsmithing, others have expressed in interest in small work pieces. I was aiming for the 14 x 40 size.
Materials of Intended Workpieces?
Intended workpieces would range all the way from plastic to steel.
Physical Size of Lathe?
There is space for a 1440 lathe (6 feet by 3 feet of floor space)
What Electrical Power is Available?
A 220V single phase 15 AMP outlet is already in place along with ample 120v power. 3 Phase power is available to the building but would require additional funding to put in. The space has a loading dock and it is a straight shot from the loading dock to the makerspace. The lathe would have to fit through two double doors.
Market Conditions in Your Area?
Right now I'm focusing on buying new. If I don't get the grant I'll focus on buying used in the area. Occasionally good opportunities arise (I bought a Bridgeport clone for $900 two months ago that I am happy with) but they are few and far between.
Rebuild Project vs Turn-Key Machine?
Right now I am focusing on buying new. The grant cycle is such that I apply now, would find out if I got the grant or not in the fall, and then would purchase the machine in Q1 2025. So, the used market is tricky, as it is harder to know whether a used machine will be available in Q1 of 2025.
I am hoping to apply for a grant to get a new lathe, and could use some advice. I have attempted to answer the questions indicated in the "Guidelines when asking buying advice" below. There are a dizzying array of lathe options available, and I am hoping folks can help me narrow the choices down to a single brand. Any recommendations on what lathe would be best to ask for for the grant would be appreciated.
What is Your Knowledge & Experience with Lathes?
I took a class on basic manual machining many years ago, and have used the mini lathe off and on since. The lathe would be used to teach new makerspace members machining and also for folks who are experienced with machining to make parts for their projects, so the intended user would range from no experience to moderate experience.
Machine & Tooling Budget?
Budget is about $17k for the machine and tooling. I think some of the tooling from the mini lathe and the milling machines we already have in the makerspace can be re-used.
Lathe Functions?
Thread cutting without having to physical remove and replace gears would be great, ideally in inch and metric, with a DRO.
Type/Size of Intended Workpieces?
Some members have expressed an interest in gunsmithing, others have expressed in interest in small work pieces. I was aiming for the 14 x 40 size.
Materials of Intended Workpieces?
Intended workpieces would range all the way from plastic to steel.
Physical Size of Lathe?
There is space for a 1440 lathe (6 feet by 3 feet of floor space)
What Electrical Power is Available?
A 220V single phase 15 AMP outlet is already in place along with ample 120v power. 3 Phase power is available to the building but would require additional funding to put in. The space has a loading dock and it is a straight shot from the loading dock to the makerspace. The lathe would have to fit through two double doors.
Market Conditions in Your Area?
Right now I'm focusing on buying new. If I don't get the grant I'll focus on buying used in the area. Occasionally good opportunities arise (I bought a Bridgeport clone for $900 two months ago that I am happy with) but they are few and far between.
Rebuild Project vs Turn-Key Machine?
Right now I am focusing on buying new. The grant cycle is such that I apply now, would find out if I got the grant or not in the fall, and then would purchase the machine in Q1 2025. So, the used market is tricky, as it is harder to know whether a used machine will be available in Q1 of 2025.
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