RPM for Alternative Ivory

[gerryr]

I finally got some of this to try and there was an instruction sheet that recommends turning at 500 rpm or even slower with a scraper. Does anyone have experience turning it at that speed?

 

[DCBluesman]

Do lathes really turn that slowly? I don't think mine goes below 3900. But seriously, i turn all plastics (and woods, for that matter) at Mach 2 with my hair on fire. On the flakey stuff I just take lighter cuts...sometimes MUCH lighter.

 

[mrplace]

I agree with DCBluesman, I crank my lathe up to 4000 RPMs to turn plastic. Crazy speed, you would think it was New Years with all the confetti flying.[8D]

I slow my lathe to around 500 to sand with, but thats it. I do use a skew and a gouge though, and not a scraper.

 

[fiferb]

I've turned some of this and use the gouge and skew with light cuts at the highest speed I feel safe. I guess I just concur with the fellows above.

 

[Randy_]

I always take the manufacturer's recommendation as a starting point(unless there is an obvious mistake). If it doesn't seem to work, then I look for alternatives. Since you have conflicting information, all you can do is try it both ways and see what works best for you!!