Main hazards

• Ejection of the centre or the workpiece if the taper (e.g. Morse taper) is dirty, damaged or poorly seated.
• Entanglement and snagging with rotating lathe components (workpiece, drive dogs, chuck), especially near the tip.
• Cuts and punctures from contact with the centre tip.
• Overheating due to friction on dead centres, with a risk of burns and workpiece damage.
• Vibration and misalignment that may cause instability, workpiece marking or tool breakage.
• Damage to the spindle or the taper due to impacts, drops or forced assembly.
• Dropping the centre when it is ejected from the quill if not properly supported.

Safe use

• Ensure the centre taper and the socket are clean, dry and free from burrs before insertion; seat the centre with firm, even pressure.
• Lock the tailstock and apply only the necessary pressure with the handwheel; check the pressure during operation, especially if heating occurs.
• Verify alignment between the centre tip and the workpiece axis before starting the machine.
• When working between centres, use a suitable, securely fastened drive dog; avoid imbalance.
• Select speed and lubrication appropriate to the type of centre: dead centres require specific centre lubricant; live centres must run freely and without play before use.
• Never touch or stop rotating parts by hand; keep clothing fitted and hair tied back, and avoid bulky gloves. Wear eye protection.
• Stop the machine completely before adjusting the workpiece, tailstock pressure or the drive dog.
• When ejecting the centre, support it by hand to prevent knocks or drops.

Storage and maintenance

• Store centres clean and dry, with tip protectors, in cases or holders that prevent knocks.
• Apply a light film of anti-corrosion oil after use, especially on the taper and tip.
• Avoid moisture and dust; do not stack tools on top of centres or leave them loose in drawers.
• Regularly inspect tapers and tips; if you observe burrs, deformation, cracks or significant wear, withdraw it from service.
• On live centres, check that rotation is smooth and noise-free; if there is play or abnormal heating, stop using it.
• Do not attempt to dismantle or modify the internal mechanism of live centres; follow the manufacturer's instructions for care.
• Avoid impacts and drops, which can affect concentricity and holding safety.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use the centre if the taper or tip is damaged, corroded or excessively worn.
• Do not use it as a punch, lever or hammer, or for tasks other than those intended on the lathe.
• Do not mix tapers, adapters or sizes that are incompatible with the machine socket.
• Do not exceed the load, speed or pressure capabilities recommended by the tool and machine manufacturer.
• Do not work without guards where provided, nor with poorly secured or unbalanced workpieces.
• Do not use unsuitable lubricants on dead centres, nor run dry when lubrication is required.
• Keep these accessories out of the reach of children and untrained persons; their use requires basic machine tool knowledge and supervision in learning environments.