A cutting implement designed to remove material from the external surface of a rotating cylindrical part. Unlike a boring bar that cuts inside a hole, this instrument shapes the outside diameter and faces of the stock. It consists of a rigid shank holding a replaceable carbide insert or a ground piece of high-speed steel.
Grab a left-hand turning tool so we can face this part off and turn the main journal without changing tools.
The rigidity of the tool setup dictates the finish, so keep the overhang from the tool post as short as possible.
Related terms
Lathe
A machine tool that spins a workpiece against a stationary cutting tool.
Single-point
To cut a thread on a lathe with a single-point tool over several passes, rather than with a die or tap.
Insert
A small replaceable carbide or ceramic cutting tip clamped in a holder, indexed to a fresh edge when worn.
Boring
The process of enlarging or finishing an existing hole using a single-point cutting tool.