TechnologyAugust 15, 2026

lathe

LAYTH

Definition

A machine tool used for shaping metal or wood by rotating a workpiece against a cutting tool, primarily for turning, boring, or threading.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'lathe', which likely originated from Old Norse 'hlað' meaning a frame or stand. It historically referred to a device used for spinning material while it is being worked.

In the news

The author uses a CNC lathe to perform precision threading operations on custom wheel hubs and tapered pipe fittings. It is the primary piece of equipment described for achieving the exact tolerances needed for these components.

When Threading Drives You Nuts

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Cutting Tool Engineering

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