Introduction
The chunk key or the lathe tool has been used for many years. You will find this tool at any mechanical shop, and you might also require it. So, in today’s article, we will learn how to make a lathe tool from scrap metal.
Supplies
In the next section of the article, let us go through the list of supplies that are required to make a lathe tool from the scrap. They are as follows:
Materials
- Scrap Metals
- Screws
Tools
- Machifit 5C Collet Block Set
- 5C Type Spring Collets
- Lathe Cutters
- Mill Cutters
- Emery Cloth
- Threading Taps
Steps To Make A Lathe Tool From Scrap Metal
Step 1: The first step is to take a skinny steel piece that will be used for the crossbar
Collecting the Steel Piece
Step 2: The second step is to use the AutoCAD tool and draw a CAD model of the Lathe Tool
Designing on AutoCAD
Step 3: Once you complete the design, take the printout of the design.
Printing the Design
Step 4: The next step is to lock the steel piece into the machine and drill the center taper.
Locking the Steel Piece
Step 5: Now, you must start cutting the iron piece into three diameters.
Cutting the Piece
Step 6: In this step, use the emery cloth and shine the surfaces.
Shining the Surfaces
Step 7: After shining the metal surface, measure it once according to the design.
Measuring the Metal Surface
Step 8: Now, turn the steel piece and cut the large taper.
Cutting the Large Taper
Step 9: After cutting the other end, shine it.
Shining the Metal Surface
Step 10: Now, make a small pilot hole inside the steel.
Making a Small Pilot
Step 11: Now, use the tailstock and make a hole.
Making a Hole
Step 12: Once the hole is prepared, insert the thread inside it.
Inserting the Thread
Step 13: The next step is to collect and arrange the collet blocks.
Arranging Collet Blocks
Step 14: The next step is to adjust the middle diameter of the new tools and shank it to half so that it would fit into collet-sized 0.500.
Adjusting the Diameter
Step 15: Place the block inside the Mill-Vies to find the edges. You can perform some test cuts to check.
Adjusting the Edges
Step 16: Now, swap the end part in the collet, and thus, you will be able to drill and chamfer through-hole for the 5/16 crossbar.
Drilling and Chamfering
Step 17: Use the Ball-Turner to flat the ends of the crossbar.
Using the Ball-Tuner
Step 18: Now, place the screwdriver in the middle of the rod.
Placing the Screw Driver
Step 19: The next step is to test the tool.
Testing the Tool
Step 20: The last step is to clean and polish the lathe tool.
Lathe Tool
Things To Remember
- Make sure you remove the additional rust before drilling it.

Saquib Siddiqui is a Mechanical Engineer and a content creator. He has special interest in science experiments and teaches the same to school and college students. He is also a technical lead at RUDE LABS PVT. LTD.
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