Thread: Hercus model A rpm options

The extra range of speeds on Hercus lathes is for those with roller bearing headstocks.
Plain bearing types should keep to the lower, single pulley speeds to avoid overheating problems.

Jordan

No real drama in running at the higher quoted speed.

Is your a plain bearing or roller bearing?

If its a roller as long as the oil is full in your bearing housing not a problem.

If its a plain bearing and you intend to run at the high range of speed for an extended period of time then you would be well advised to check the oil cups and spindle bearings a couple of extra times during use.eg if running at normal check at start and then 2 to 3 times during an 8 hour turning day,if running at high speed,at start up an then every 1hour to 1 1/2 hours.

If your bearing are a little worn probably check every 1/2 hour if extended running.

If you dont want to go to the expense of getting 2 step drive pulleys just change the motor pulley up in diameter to suit your needs,same if you wanted to run the lathe slower.

One of my lathes has a roller bearing spindle and it came with a set of high speed pulleys. This thread may be of interest - https://www.woodworkforums.com/f65/ho...0/#post1270203

Bob.

Thanks for all the responses.

Still learning basic things so far. Made a 100mm long cylinder diameters 24.85 (Head End) and 24.83 (Tail End). Long way to go before I am as accurate and well set up as others on this forum. Working on it a little bit at a time.

If I ever need to get higher rpms, I will proceed with caution and check oil regularly.

As a newbie hobby user I dont see me running the lathe for long periods of time at high rpm

I started the thread after wondering how I might turn things down to small diameters, and also how to go about parting, given my max 720rpm.

Off to the shed to do some more learning.

Regards

Bill

Parting at low speeds is a good idea.

Jordan

Originally Posted by nadroj

Parting at low speeds is a good idea.

Jordan

Thanks Jordan,

You've given me a few tips now in different threads.

Appreciated.

Bill

That's good.

Jordan