I need advice on boring a long (11"), small (1/8" diameter) hole through a spindle. All my attempts have resulted in holes which have drifted up to 3/8" off center.
My lathe speed was 500 rpm. Initial bit used was 2-5/8" long; subsequent bits were 8" and 12" long. The bits were secured in a chuck at the tailstock, advanced slowly, and retracted often to clear the wood chips from the bits' flutes. Ironically, the closest to center boring happened when I hand held the bits in a vise grip.
I've been told the off-center drifting is a result of the longer 1/8" diameter bits' flexibility. If anyone has a method of minimizing/eliminating the drifting, I would really appreciate your sharing it with me. Thanks.
Allan.
My lathe speed was 500 rpm. Initial bit used was 2-5/8" long; subsequent bits were 8" and 12" long. The bits were secured in a chuck at the tailstock, advanced slowly, and retracted often to clear the wood chips from the bits' flutes. Ironically, the closest to center boring happened when I hand held the bits in a vise grip.
I've been told the off-center drifting is a result of the longer 1/8" diameter bits' flexibility. If anyone has a method of minimizing/eliminating the drifting, I would really appreciate your sharing it with me. Thanks.
Allan.