What is the primary use of a lathe chuck?

A lathe chuck is primarily used to hold and secure the workpiece during turning operations. This is essential because, in machining processes such as turning, the workpiece needs to be firmly held in place so that it can be rotated around a central axis while being shaped by a cutting tool. The chuck provides the necessary grip to ensure that the workpiece remains stationary relative to the rotating spindle, allowing for precision in cutting and machining.

Different types of chucks, such as three-jaw or four-jaw chucks, are designed to accommodate various shapes and sizes of workpieces, enhancing flexibility in machining operations. The ability to securely clamp the workpiece is crucial for achieving accurate dimensions and surface finishes.