Thread: TBC Issues

I still use a mandrel and do not have any problems but also have at times done the tbc routine. In both cases the same basic rules apply. Never over tighten the tailstock. If the blank starts to spin then just crank in small increments till you get it to stop. Make sure the ends of the blank are true with the brass tubes and that the bushings sit squarely against the ends of the blank. Make sure there is no CA build up on the bushings. Make sure you are using the proper tailstock and headstock centers. Make sure they fit the bushings properly.

As far as tools go there is no set tool to turn pens with. It has to be sharp, you have to know how to use it and present it to the work. You need to keep the tool rest at the proper height and closeness to the work. When using a carbide tool most people use it as a scraper but the proper way is to use it more like a skew. Always keep turning the ends down faster toward the bushings before turning the center of the blank. This way the tool has more support. Let the tool do the work and do not get too aggressive. With practice this all should become very easy. Now some materials are just prone to be finicky and more brittle. Usually you can tell this the very first passes. The way the material turns and the shavings coming off it will be a good indicator.

Have fun

If you are TBC with bushings and blanks are cracking the ends are not milled close enough to the tube.
If you are TBC without bushings and blanks are cracking then you are tightening you tail stock too much.

Les

I only TBC and have not had any problems, the previous posts seem to have covered the answer to your question. Good luck.

Getting too much heat in the turning process will crack blanks fast too

Thank you all for your advice, it looks like I am using too much tail stock pressure !

Regards,
Cam