Experiment No.

6
6.1) Objective:

To perform Threading operation on lathe machine.

6.2) Machine/Tools:

• Lathe machine and single-point cutting tool

• Lathe centers
• Vernier caliper or micrometer
• Steel rule

6.3) Theory:

Threading is a lathe operation used to cut a helical groove on the external or internal surface of a
workpiece. The purpose is to produce screw threads for fasteners like bolts, nuts, or lead screws.

During threading, the lathe’s lead screw and carriage movement are synchronized so that the tool
moves at a constant pitch along the rotating workpiece.

Fig 6.1 Threading

6.4) Type of Threads:

6.4.1) External Thread

An external thread is a thread cut on the outer surface of a cylindrical workpiece. It is produced by
using a single-point threading tool on a lathe or by rolling/die-cutting. External threads are commonly found
on parts like bolts, screws, and studs.
Example: The thread on a bolt or screw shaft.

6.4.2) Internal Thread

An internal thread is a thread cut on the inner surface of a hole or cylindrical part. It is made using a
threading tool or tap inside a pre-drilled hole. Internal threads allow external threaded parts to fit and fasten
securely.

Example: The thread inside a nut or a tapped hole.

6.4.3) Right-Hand Thread

A right-hand thread advances (tightens) when rotated clockwise. It is the most common type of thread
used in machinery and fastening components. The lead of the thread moves forward when turned in the
direction of normal clock rotation.

Example: Standard bolts and nuts used in daily applications.

6.4.4) Left-Hand Thread

A left-hand thread advances (tightens) when rotated counter clockwise. It is used in applications where
normal rotation would loosen a right-hand thread, such as in rotating machinery or bicycle pedals.

Example: Left pedal of a bicycle or certain mechanical shafts that rotate in the opposite direction.

6.5) Parts of Thread:

6.5.1) Major Diameter (Outside Diameter)

It is the largest diameter of a thread, measured from crest to crest in an external thread or root to root
in an internal thread. It represents the overall size of the thread.

6.5.2) Minor Diameter (Core or Root Diameter)

It is the smallest diameter of a thread, measured from root to root in an external thread. It determines
the strength of the screw or bolt.

6.5.3) Pitch
The distance between two corresponding points on adjacent threads, measured parallel to the thread
axis. It shows how close or far the threads are spaced.

6.5.4) Lead
The distance a screw thread advances in one complete revolution. For a single-start thread, the lead is
equal to the pitch.

6.5.5) Crest
 The top surface of the thread, which forms the highest point of the ridge on the screw or nut.

6.5.6) Root
The bottom surface of the thread, located between two adjacent crests. It forms the base of the thread
groove.

6.5.7) Flank
The sloping surface between the crest and the root of a thread. It connects the high and low points of
the thread.

6.5.8) Thread Angle (Included Angle)

The angle formed between the flanks of the thread measured in an axial plane. For example, metric
threads have a 60° thread angle.

6.5.9) Depth of Thread

The distance between the crest and the root measured perpendicular to the thread axis. It defines how
deep the thread is cut.

Fig. 6.2 Threads Parts

6.6) Working Principle:

The working principle of threading on a lathe is based on the synchronized movement between the
rotation of the workpiece and the linear motion of the cutting tool.

When the lead screw of the lathe is engaged with the carriage through the half-nut, the carriage (and
tool) moves along the axis of the rotating workpiece at a uniform rate. This movement is perfectly timed so
that the cutting tool traces a helical path, forming threads of a specific pitch and depth on the work surface.
The pitch of the thread is determined by the gear ratio between the lathe spindle and the lead screw.

6.7) Threading Operation:

Threading operation is performed on a lathe machine to cut a helical groove (thread) on the external
or internal surface of a cylindrical workpiece. This groove allows the part to be used as a screw, bolt, or nut
for fastening or mechanical motion transmission. The tool moves longitudinally along the rotating workpiece
in a synchronized manner with the lead screw to maintain a constant pitch.

Fig 6.3 Threading Operation

6.8) Purpose of Threading Operation:

• To produce external or internal screw threads on cylindrical workpieces.

• To manufacture components like bolts, screws, nuts, and threaded shafts.
• To achieve accurate and uniform pitch for fastening and mechanical applications.
• To prepare threaded parts for assembly or mechanical motion transfer.

6.9) How to Perform Threading Operation Accurately:

First, the workpiece is fixed firmly in the chuck and the threading tool is set at the correct tool angle
and center height. The lead screw and feed gears are adjusted according to the required thread pitch.
The lathe is operated at a low spindle speed, and the half-nut lever is engaged to synchronize the tool’s
movement with the lead screw.

The tool moves longitudinally along the rotating workpiece, cutting the thread groove. After each pass,
the tool depth is increased slightly until the full thread depth is obtained. The thread is finally checked using
a thread pitch gauge or screw gauge for accuracy.

6.10) Formulas for Threading Operation:

6.10.1) Cutting Speed (V):

V = (π × D × N) / 1000
Where:
V = Cutting speed (m/min)
D = Diameter of workpiece (mm)
N = Spindle speed (rev/min)

6.10.2) Feed Rate (fᵣ):

fᵣ = f × N
Where:
fᵣ = Feed rate (mm/min)
f = Feed per revolution (mm/rev)
N = Spindle speed (rev/min)

6.10.3) Machining Time (T):

T = L / (f × N)
Where:
T = Machining time (min)
L = Length of cut (mm)
f = Feed per revolution (mm/rev)
N = Spindle speed (rev/min)

6.11) Safety Precautions:

• Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from metal chips.
• Avoid loose clothing, gloves, and jewellery while operating the lathe.
• Ensure the workpiece and tool are properly secured before starting.
• Keep hands away from the rotating parts.
• Do not measure or touch the workpiece while it is rotating.
• Use a brush to remove chips, not your hands.
• Maintain a clean workspace and use proper speed and feed to prevent accidents.

6.12) Conclusion:
The threading operation was successfully carried out on the lathe machine. Threads were accurately
cut on the workpiece according to the required dimensions and pitch, producing a clean and precise finish.
The experiment improved understanding of tool setup, spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut adjustments
needed for proper thread formation. It also highlighted the importance of correct tool angle and precise
measurement to achieve accurate and uniform threads.