headstock
Noun: 1. The stationary support in a machine or power tool that supports and drives a revolving part (as a chuck or the spindle on a lathe): A headstock is a fixed component, typically at one end of a machine, that houses bearings and a mechanism (like gears or a motor) to hold and rotate a spindle, chuck, or other tool.
- Noun:
- The lathe's headstock contains the motor and gearbox that control the spindle speed.
- To change the drill bit, you must first secure it in the chuck mounted on the headstock.
- A common point of failure in older machines is wear within the headstock bearings.
"Headstock alignment": Refers to the precise positioning of the headstock relative to other machine components, which is critical for accuracy.
- Proper headstock alignment is essential for turning perfectly cylindrical parts on a lathe.
"Headstock assembly": The complete unit comprising the headstock housing, spindle, bearings, and drive mechanism.
- The entire headstock assembly was replaced to fix the vibration issue.
Tailstock (noun): The movable counterpart to the headstock on a lathe, used to support the other end of the workpiece.
- The tailstock is slid along the bed and locked in position opposite the headstock.
Spindle (noun): The rotating shaft within the headstock that holds the workpiece or tool.
- The spindle is the central rotating component supported by the headstock.
- Spindle housing: A term sometimes used interchangeably, emphasizing the part that encloses the spindle.
- Drive head: A less common synonym highlighting its function of providing drive power.
Guitar headstock (Note: This is a distinct, separate compound term. It refers to the part of a stringed instrument where the tuning pegs are located, not the machine tool component defined above.)
- The logo is inlaid on the guitar's headstock.
Headstock bearing: The specific bearing or set of bearings within the headstock that supports the spindle.
- A noisy headstock bearing often indicates it needs lubrication or replacement.
- the stationary support in a machine or power tool that supports and drives a revolving part (as a chuck or the spindle on a lathe)