What is the purpose of a lathe chuck?

The primary purpose of a lathe chuck is to hold and secure the workpiece on the lathe. This is essential because it ensures that the workpiece remains stable and firmly in place during machining operations, allowing for precision and accuracy in shaping the material. The lathe chuck can accommodate various types of workpieces, whether they are round or irregularly shaped, and it can be adjusted to grip them securely.

Proper clamping of the workpiece is crucial for effective machining; any movement can lead to inaccuracies or defects in the finished product. The chuck allows for both manual and automatic gripping mechanisms, depending on its design, which enhances operational efficiency. Therefore, the chuck's role in securely holding the workpiece directly impacts the quality and precision of the machining process.