Which statement best describes threading on a manual lathe?

Which statement best describes threading on a manual lathe?

• A. A single-point tool is used to cut a helical ridge around a cylindrical part
• B. A forming tool is used to press external thread into the workpiece
• C. A grinding wheel cuts threads by abrasion
• D. The spindle is stationary and the tool moves

Answer: (A)

Threading on a manual lathe is done by a single-point cutting tool that sits in the tool post and is fed along the axis as the workpiece rotates, removing material to form a continuous helical ridge around the outside. The pitch is controlled by the machine’s lead screw and gear train, and threading is typically done in multiple passes to reach the final depth. The spindle is not stationary—the work spins while the tool advances precisely to cut the shape. Other methods described—pressing with a forming tool or cutting with a grinding wheel—represent forming or finishing processes rather than the standard cutting method used on a manual lathe.

Threading on a manual lathe is done by a single-point cutting tool that sits in the tool post and is fed along the axis as the workpiece rotates, removing material to form a continuous helical ridge around the outside. The pitch is controlled by the machine’s lead screw and gear train, and threading is typically done in multiple passes to reach the final depth. The spindle is not stationary—the work spins while the tool advances precisely to cut the shape. Other methods described—pressing with a forming tool or cutting with a grinding wheel—represent forming or finishing processes rather than the standard cutting method used on a manual lathe.