Live centres for lathes with compression Type 172400 are technical components designed to support and centre the workpiece during turning operations, providing controlled and continuous axial support whenever the machining cycle requires elastic compensation of the position. The image shows a revolving tailstock centre with cylindrical fitting d1, enlarged cylindrical body, front shoulder and rotating point with axial compression system. Dimension C identifies the compression stroke, meaning the ability of the live centre to absorb small axial movements while maintaining stable and progressive contact with the workpiece.

This feature is particularly important in turning operations where the workpiece must be supported without generating excessive thrust, deformation or instability. During rotation, the point follows the movement of the machined part, reducing friction in the contact area and helping to limit local overheating, vibration and micro-movements. Axial compression also compensates for slight length differences, positioning tolerances, thermal expansion or load variations that may occur during the machining cycle.

Compared with a standard live centre, Type 172400 is suitable when a safer support condition and a body with front shoulder are required for installation in dedicated holders, seats or special fixtures. The cylindrical fitting allows mounting on specific systems, special devices, machine tailstock units, live-centre holders and applications where a Morse taper is not used and a precise cylindrical seat is required. The technical dimensions shown in the drawing, such as d1, D, E, H, L, S and C, are essential for evaluating mechanical compatibility, overall dimensions, mounting depth, point position and useful compression stroke.

In workshop applications, these live centres are used for machining shafts, pins, bushes, turned parts, cylindrical components, automotive parts, transmission elements and workpieces requiring reliable axial support during roughing, finishing or secondary operations. They are suitable for conventional lathes, automatic lathes, CNC lathes and special machines used for repetitive production or precision machining. Their use helps improve process stability, reduce geometric errors, limit ovality and improve surface finish when the workpiece has lengths, diameters or clamping conditions requiring additional support.

For preventive and corrective maintenance departments, a live centre with compression is a useful solution when correct support conditions must be restored, machining safety improved or worn components replaced because they no longer provide precision and smooth rotation. In quality control and precision machining, the correct choice of the live centre helps reduce the variables that may affect concentricity, dimensional repeatability and workpiece stability during machining.

Selection must take into account the cylindrical fitting diameter d1, length L, body diameter D, dimension H, dimension S, front dimension E and compression stroke C. Correct selection ensures compatibility with the machine, proper working position, regular support and greater process reliability. In applications involving free-cutting steels, alloy steels, light alloys, non-ferrous materials and industrial components, the live centre with compression helps maintain constant workpiece support, improving accuracy, tool life and production continuity.