Definition

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.

Usage Examples

• 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.

Advanced Usage

• "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.

Variants and Related Words

• 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.

Synonyms

• 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.

Related Phrases and Compound Terms

• 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.

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)