Nova Mercury Lathe Features at a glance
Add on Bed System
A lathe that meets your woodturning needs, your workshop space, or your pocket! Each segment is 12” in length. This
feature appeals for many different reasons:
As a compact lathe (standard configuration) it is great for small turning workshop spaces or as a portable unit.
As an extended bed lathe for those wanting to do longer spindles. One additional segment increases the between center
capacity to 23”(580mm). Two additional segments would give a 35” (890mm) capacity.
Outboard Turning
The Mercury is a mini lathe ideal for all inboard work up to 8” (200mm) diameter but you can stretch this capacity outboard.
The physical capacity of the outboard rest is about 14” but we recommend that you turn bowls up to 10” (250mm) diameter.
This gives it a capability in the ‘midi’ lathe range. You could occasionally do slightly larger bowls but would need to pay close
attention to correct cutting techniques.
Speed Range
The Nova Mercury lathe has a 3 step variable electronic speed range, one of the very best available for mini lathe work. Low
range: slower speeds from around 200rpm up to 1750 rpm for larger spindle and bowl work. Medium range: up to 3670rpm
for smaller items (eg pen work). Fast range: up to 5350rpm required for all miniature turning work. Most other mini lathes do
not have this fast speed range for true miniature work.
Electronic variable speed allows you to dial in the correct speed for the job and the conditions and not be limited to fixed
speed steps.
Solid Construction
Well proven design, the Nova Mercury is made from Cast Iron components for strength and rigidity. The headstock and bed
is a one piece casting for maximum rigidity – no fastenings or joins to rattle or cause vibration, as with many other mini
designs.
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