What is another name for a rotary machine?

• A. Lathe
• B. Drill press
• C. Bench machine or Turning machine
• D. Milling machine

Answer: (C)

Rotating the workpiece to remove material defines a turning operation. A machine built for that purpose is commonly called a lathe, or turning machine. In smaller shops, a compact version mounted on a bench is often referred to as a bench machine. So, the alternative name for a rotary machine is bench machine or turning machine.

This distinguishes turning from drilling or milling: a drill press centers on rotating a drill to make holes, while a milling machine uses rotating cutters to remove material in multiple directions. The essence of a rotary or turning machine is that the workpiece spins while a cutting tool shapes it.