The Axial and Entrained Air Flow Around the Lathe Chuck : Observation of Air Flow Using the Tuft and Smoke Wire Methods

Abstract

In order to reduce the aerodynamic noise of a lathe chuck, the air flow around the three-jaw scroll chuck is observed by means of the tuft and smoke wire methods. Flow visualizations are carried out for various cases, e.g., those without a workpiece, those with cylindrical- and flange-shaped workpieces, when the chuck rotating speeds are 1 000, 2 000 and 3 000 rpm. The investigation shows that the air flow around the chuck consists of four leading flows, i.e., axial flow from the tailstock to the headstock, entrained flow within the area encircled by top jaws, flow from the front to radial areas of the chuck and flow corresponding to the velocity boundary layer caused by the rotating chuck.