In Brief: Delta 46-460 Lathe Review
Despite its small size, the Delta 46-460 Lathe has a nearly 7-amp motor capable of delivering variable speeds of up to 4,000 RPM. The large 12.5-inch swing capacity is one of the largest in its class, capable of taking on woodworking jobs of all kinds. Uses a 3-pulley system to provide versatility in speed selection with additional torque.
Delta Machinery is a brand under the umbrella of Delta Power Equipment Corp. They have been in business for over a century, dating back to their start in Milwaukee, WI back in 1919.
They were eventually bought by the Stanley Black & Decker corporation and now reside under Taiwan-based Chang Type Industrial Co.
Delta Machinery produces a wide array of power tools. Their line of lathes is one of the most trusted in the industry and their line of saws in particular have gained some notoriety.
Key Specifications of the Delta 46-460
The Delta 46-460 Lathe boasts a forward and reversing functionality that allows the turner to get an unrivalled finish.
Users can sand a turned piece either with the grain or against, as well as rotate in both directions to achieve a super smooth finish.
The 1-HP, 6.91-amp motor deliver high-power torque to each turning operation. It is capable of achieving speeds of up to 4,000 RPM allowing for precision and accuracy on each operation like never before.
Most of all, the belt tensioning system allows for quick and easy speed changes as well as setting the proper tension each and every time.
Doing this allows for the maximum transfer of power as well as the extension of life in the machine itself.
All of this while providing improved precision, accuracy, and finish on any woodturning operation.
Read the long list of Delta 46-460 Lathe specs here :
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Model Number/ Name | 46-460 |
| Ideal For | Wood |
| Volts | 120 |
| Current (amps) | 6.91 |
| Speed (rpm) | |
| Distance between centers (in) | 16.5 |
| Spindle thread (in) | 1”-8 TPI |
| Overall dimensions | 36 x 11 x 17.75 |
| Weight (lbs) | 97 |
| Other Features | 5-year warranty |
Top Features to Look For
The Delta 46-460 Lathe delivers a lot in a relatively small package.
Quality torque and power, high-rate RPMs, fast tension setting, and the ability to turn large objects gives it a versatility that few on the market can match.
Electronic Variable Speed
A quality midi lathe has to have a quality variable speed setting.
The Delta 46-460 Lathe delivers just that. Users can start as low as 250 RPM and work all the way up to 4,000 RPM at their own discretion.
Being able to achieve proper speed can be the difference in most woodturning operations, providing better overall accuracy and precision.
Belt Tensioning System
The belt tensioning system on the Delta 46-460 Lathe is patented for quick and easy speed changes. Not only that, but it also sets the belt at the proper tension each time.
This allows for a smoother power transfer and extends the life of the machine.
Forward and Reversing Functionality
Some lathes simply do not have the capability to switch between forward and reverse at the user’s discretion.
The Delta 46-460 Lathe has that function, allowing for a better finish than ever before.
Sand with or against the grain, move forward and backwards to achieve the desired finish even at a super smooth quality.
Power and Performance
The Delta 46-460 Lathe packs a lot of power in a small frame.
The motor pumps out nearly 7-amps of power, delivering maximum torque in a small amount of space. It is also capable of achieving speeds of up to 4,000 RPM for maximum efficiency and accuracy.
Ease of Use
Using the Delta 46-460 Lathe is easier than ever thanks to the patented belt tensioning system and the digital readout display.
Set the proper speed with little to no issue; the belts will set the correct tension every single time. Makes performing quick, accurate turning operations easier than ever.
Ease of Maintenance, Repairs, and Warranty
Because of its small surface area, keeping the Delta 46-460 Lathe clean is easy as well.
Simply blow and wipe off the workspace when finished and it should help to extend the life of the lathe.
Not only that, make sure to replace the cutting tool every now and again to ensure that the material will not be compromised.
Warranty
Delta Machinery offers a limited five-year warranty on all of their new machines, lathes included.
Any accessories are covered for a period of two years while any factory refurbished products and service parts are covered for six months.
If you have any concerns or questions about the warranty, you can call their customer care center at (800) 223-7278 for more information.
Price of the Delta 46-460 Lathe
Though far from the most expensive benchtop lathe on the market, the Delta 46-460 Lathe certainly comes in above average.
With the belt tensioning system, superior torque and power, variable speed selection, and forward/reversing functionality, it is a solid price.
Buyer felt that, given all that comes standard on the Delta 46-460 Lathe, that the price was more than fair.
Pros and cons of the Delta 46-460 Lathe
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Delta 46-460 Lathe :
Pros
- Lots of Power
- Belt Tensioning System
- Large Swing Capacity
- Variable Speeds
Cons
- Good for Small Operations
Who Should Buy the Delta 46-460 ?
If space is at a premium but you don’t want to sacrifice power, the Delta 46-460 Lathe is an excellent choice.
The forward and reversing function, as well as the variable speeds, are great for woodturners that need to achieve super smooth finishes on their products.
Can sit on top of the bench for additional space saving in tight quarters.
Our Recommendation
There are certainly bigger and stronger lathes on the market, but for the compact size, the Delta 46-460 Lathe more than delivers the goods.
It is capable of turning out some highly-accurate woodturning operations without sacrificing much-needed space.
Last update on 2024-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
