A centre lathe is a manually operated machine that turns round parts: the work spins in a chuck or between centres while the operator moves a cutting tool along and across it. It is ideal for one-off parts, repairs, long shafts and simple batches.
Quick facts
- Size given as
- Swing over bed × distance between centres (e.g. 450 × 1500 mm (17.72 × 59.06 inch))
- Typical accuracy
- About ±0.02–0.05 mm (±0.0008–0.0020 inch), operator-dependent
- Work
- Facing, turning, taper, threading, drilling, boring, knurling
- Best for
- One-offs, repairs, long or heavy shafts, small batches
- Types
- All-geared, cone pulley, heavy-duty, extra-long bed
- Operator
- Skilled turner
Main parts
- Headstock with spindle and gearbox
- Bed and carriage with cross-slide and compound rest
- Tailstock for centres and drilling
- Lead screw and feed rod for threading and feeds
- Chuck, faceplate, steady and follow rests
Centre lathe or CNC lathe?
- Centre lathe: no programming, quick for one-off parts, repairs and long shafts
- CNC lathe: much faster and more consistent for batches, and complex profiles
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Questions
- How is lathe size specified?
- By the largest diameter it can swing over the bed and the length between centres, for example 450 mm (17.72 inch) swing × 1,500 mm (59.06 inch) between centres.
- Is a manual lathe still useful?
- Yes: for repairs, one-off parts and long shafts, a skilled turner on a centre lathe is often quicker than programming a CNC.
The figures on this page are typical values for guidance, written by Diemeco from standard engineering practice. They are not a specification: confirm grades and properties with the relevant standard or the supplier's mill test certificate, and tolerances with your workshop. Last checked 9 October 2026.