The ideal rotational speed of a wood lathe varies depending on the diameter, length, thickness, consistency and weight of the piece of wood to be turned. It also depends on the stability of the lathe and the correct centering of the element on which the turner is working. Lathes are generally equipped with a variable speed drive which allows them to be started at a slow speed and then gradually accelerated until the part vibrates and stabilizes when the right speed is reached.