Notice
- This machine should not be operated without induction.
- This machine should not be used while alone in the space - lone working rule.
Colchester Student MK1.5 Lathe (Cub variant)
Details
The Colchester Student MK1.5 (Cub variant) is a gap bed metal cutting lathe without a quick change gearbox. It has power feed and can be used for turning, facing, boring, die cutting as well as tapping of both metal and plastic sections.
The three jaw self centering chuck is installed as standard and is used for circular and hexagonal cross-sectional material.
The four jaw independent chuck is for square and irregular cross-sections. The installation of the four jaw is a tech only operation and needs to be booked in advance by messaging the MetalTechs.
A range of carbide insert and high speed steel tooling is available for facing, turning and boring.
Thread cutting is possible but is only available as a tech assisted operation using manually configured change gears. This process must be booked in advance by messaging the MetalTechs
It also has a suds pump for workpiece cooling.
The machine is also retro fitted with glass measuring scales along the ways and the cross-slide to provide a digital readout.
Specifications
- 152mm (6") centre height with turning diameter 305mm (12") over bed, 229mm (9") over carriage and 203mm (8") over cross slide.
- Distance between centres 610mm.
- Diameter of faceplate 305mm (12").
- Diameter of 3 jaw chuck 190mm (7 1/2").
- Diameter of 4 jaw chuck 254mm (10").
- Head stock bore 35mm with a No. 4 MT taper in spindle nose bush.
- Tail stock fitted with a No. 3 MT taper.
- 8 speeds between 54 and 1200 rpm.
- Fitted with a 3HP 3 phase motor.
Additional tools:
- Quickchange toolpost with multiple tool holders.
- Tailstock 3 MT 5-20mm drill chuck.
PPE
- Safety glasses are mandatory
Safety Checklist
- Do not wear loose clothing.
- Ensure long hair, jewellery, and any clothing drawstrings are securely tied back
- Sensible footwear with sturdy toes should be worn at all times in the workshop. Steel toe-caps are a bonus.
- Do not wear gloves - they are an entanglement risk with metalworking machine tools - if you are concerned about grease and oil use barrier cream
- As with any power tool - be alert. Do not use the lathe when tired.
Condition Notes
Given to the SLMS by the Society Of Model and Experimental Engineers, SLMS paid to transport it. From the 1960s in very good condition. Has been extensively overhauled and reconditioned by SLMS members.
Maintainers
Risk Assessment
Induction and Training
Induction is mandatory. The induction covers safe use of the metal lathe as well as some basic processes. Lathes are widely regarded as one of the most dangerous machines in a workshop setting, capable of causing severe and life-changing injury.
Risks
- Entanglement, flying debris, heat, fire and sparks, trips, sharps.
To Mitigate Risks
- See “Safety Checklist” above.
Before Use
- Clear the work area of anything that may be in the way.
- Don’t ever place things on the machine.
- Make sure the machine is clean and free from metal chips, dirt and particles.
- Check the tools you intend to use are in good working order and configured properly.
- Have your work area set up with the things you need i.e. cutting paste, brush, tools, blue paper roll.
During Use
Controls And Switches:
- The tool control, where you tap in, is on the wall behind the machine alongside the main red power switch.
- The control panel with the start stop buttons, status lights, coolant and light switch.
- The lathe specific emergency stops. There is one on the floor, which is foot activated and there is another on a pole that can be activated by hand, arm or shoulder.
- Guard and interlock. This shield must be down in this position before you can start the lathe.
Parts Of The Lathe:
- Headstock - incorporating the Drive Belt, Spindle, Gearbox, Change Gears and Control Levers,
- Three Jaw Chuck,
- Ways - aka Slideways, Bedways
- Saddle - This sits across the Ways with the Cross Slide, Compound and Toolpost stacked on top,
- Tailstock,
- Sump
After Use
- Switch off and isolate power
- Remove chuck key and any tools from the machine
- Brush swarf from bed, carriage, cross-slide and compound slide
(Do not use hands) - Use Henry Hoover to vacuum swarf from tray, guards and surrounding floor
(Avoid vacuuming hot chips) - Wipe exposed metal surfaces clean - Do not use any solvents
- Apply a light film of oil to Ways and other bright metal surfaces
- Ensure toolpost is square to the chuck and tools are back in holders
- Return slides and carriage to a safe position
- Check coolant and lubricant levels
- Empty swarf tray if required
- Leave chuck stopped, machine clean, and work area tidy
- Report any faults, unusual noises or damage
Maintenance
Servicing and repairs outside of general use e.g. oil change, gib adjustment, head alignment, belt servicing, chuck servicing, DRO calibration, etc are MetalTech only operations and are not to be undertaken by members.
References:-
(instruction manuals, tutorial videos etc.)
manual
9485.pdf (4.0 MB)
Instructional YouTube resources
BlondieHacks - Lathe Skills
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLY67-4BrEae9Ad91LPRIhcLJM9fO-HJyN&si=Qu6uMZ0X5LcVYLZt
ThisOldTony - Learning while being entertained
https://youtube.com/@thisoldtony?si=PrkJkmRkVNqAqyZG