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What is the purpose of a lathe dog?

  1. Provide support to the tailstock

  2. Transmit drive power to a mandrel or workpiece

  3. Secure the tool post

  4. Measure the diameter of the workpiece

The correct answer is: Transmit drive power to a mandrel or workpiece

The purpose of a lathe dog is to transmit drive power to a mandrel or workpiece. In turning operations on a lathe, the workpiece needs to be securely attached to the machine in order for it to rotate effectively. The lathe dog facilitates this by connecting the workpiece to the driving mechanism of the lathe, typically the spindle. As the spindle turns, the lathe dog ensures that the workpiece rotates in unison, allowing for cutting or shaping operations to be performed accurately. This connection is essential in ensuring the speed and stability of the workpiece while it is being machined. A lathe dog can take different forms, typically a metal piece that grips the workpiece and is held in place by a support arm. The effective transfer of power from the lathe to the workpiece enables the millwright to perform precise machining tasks.