Powermatic adds heft, features to 3520 lathe

The new Powermatic 3520C wood lathe, model 1353001, has the design characteristics of its predecessor, the 3520B. But at 726 lbs., it is much heavier and packed with innovative features, according to the company.

“It’s about 96 pounds heavier which is going to result in a much more stable turning experience no matter how big of a log or blank you’re turning on there,” says product manager Michael D’Onofrio, explaining that the headstock, tailstock and legs are constructed entirely of heavy-duty cast iron for a stable, vibration-free work surface.

“This model is also completely adjustable and customizable. It comes with riser blocks built into it where you can increase or lower its height. There’s also a magnetic, movable control box that you can move and position next to where you’re working, to stop the lathe or adjust the speed, or operate it in forward and reverse.”

The 3520C is powered by 2-hp, one-phase, 220-volt motor with variable speed ranges of 15 to 1,200 rpm on the ‘low’ setting and RPM on low and 40 to 3,200 rpm on high. “There’s also a digital spindle speed and indexing readout on the control box for more convenience,” adds D’Onofrio.

The lathe offers a 36” working distance between centers and 20” swing over the bed.

“This allows complex, multi-axis turnings and provides maximum capacity for spindle and bowl turning,” according to a company statement.

“A precision-ground bed-way ensures smooth sliding of the tailstock and tool rest. An upgraded banjo incorporates a non-marring, pinch-style clamp for solid tool rest placement.”

Other features include a self-locating, ergonomic spindle lock for one-hand operation and an anti-rotation tailstock key.

The Powermatic 3520C lathe sells for about $4,500. An optional 20” bed extension, model 1353002, increases the lathe’s capacity to 56” between centers and sells for $500.

For more, visit www.powermatic.com.

This article originally appeared in the February 2018 issue.