Lathe chuck extension material, I have a Wales/Heathway

[mtownglassart]

I was wondering if anyone knew why the check extensions on my wales/Heathway is aluminum and not stainless. Is it the weight? Stainless is stronger, and would not warp as quickly.


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[mtownglassart]

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[Subduction]

Stainless is more expensive than aluminum (especially right now with the cost of nickel). Aluminum is much easier to machine.
As you say, less rotating weight is an advantage with aluminum. I have no experience with glass lathes but I'd think a machine of that size could handle steel extensions.

[Jimi The Don]

less weight on the spindles, cheaper to machine, and should be plenty strong enough for what you do with it.

[Oneiros]

Honestly curious how you're warping your donuts. Can you share more about what's going on?