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No matter what you're doing with your lathe, any operation that involves using a lathe chuck requires an appropriate set of lathe chuck jaws. These jaws provide the point of contact between the chuck and your workpiece, so having the right jaws to effectively grip your workpiece is vital.
Cromwell stocks a large range of quality lathe chuck jaws, available in a variety of sizes, materials, and configurations to suit any lathe job.

What are lathe chuck jaws?

Lathe chuck jaws are used for holding workpieces on a lathe chuck. They are made from either hard or soft metal, depending on the type of grip you want.
These jaws move independently to gain a good grip on the workpiece and can provide a secure hold - even on irregularly shaped objects.

Why a lathe chuck jaw?

Lathe chuck jaws are crucial for getting the right grip on your workpiece when using a lathe chuck. Without the correct grip, your workpiece is subject to poor results or damage.

When are lathe chuck jaws used?

Lathe chuck jaws are used as a point of connection between the chuck and the workpiece. This makes them vital for every single lathe operation conducted with a lathe chuck, including:

• Shaping

• Knurling

• Turning

• Cutting

• Deforming

Types of lathe chuck jaw

When it comes to lathe chuck jaws, you've got two main choices - hard lathe chuck jaws, or soft. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choose carefully:

• Hard lathe chuck jaws - Hard lathe chuck jaws hold a workpiece steady on a lathe chuck. Typically made from case-hardened steel, hard chuck jaws boast a serrated clamp design to provide a strong, secure grip on the workpiece during operation. Hard chuck jaws are commonly used for rough finishes.

• Soft lathe chuck jaws - Also known as machinable lathe chuck jaws, soft lathe chuck jaws are made from softer metals such as mild steel or aluminium. They are far more accurate than their hard counterparts and are known for precise alignment when in use. One benefit of soft jaws is that they can be cut to match the part diameter, which greatly increases the contact surface. Soft lathe chuck jaws are often used for more delicate, fine work.

If you're looking for personalised recommendations on the right type of lathe chuck jaw for your applications, ask our experts for specialised advice.

Considerations when buying a lathe chuck jaw

Lathe chuck jaws are available in two types of design: solid jaws and 2-piece jaws.

• Solid jaw - Solid jaws are the most commonly used type of lathe chuck jaw, ensuring reliable use and a more rigid hold. Yet they are difficult to replace, which can cause problems if you want more versatility from your lathe.

• 2-piece jaws - 2-piece jaws have a tongue-and-groove interface, making them easier to swap out on the fly. They allow users to quickly switch between multiple jaw setups, however they don't have the steadfast rigidity of a solid jaw.

FAQs

Are lathe chuck jaws interchangeable?

Universal chuck jaws are typically interchangeable unless stated otherwise. As long as you've got the right size for your lathe chuck, you should be able to freely swap between lathe chuck jaws.