I know there is a back issue of RM that has lighting in it, but have a quick question. I have a 4ft strip light in which I purchased daylight bulbs (supposed to be as close to sunlight as you can get). As for mounting pursposes, I have a work bench in which I can mount the fixture at any location. So, what is the best location in perspective to my rod lathe? Directly above on the ceiling? Or high on the wall in front of me (high enough where I am not being blinded). Centered on the lathe or preferencing one end? I would like to mount it today, so any input would be great. Thanks

i prefer overhead lighting. no scientific reason, but that's what i prefer.

Elrod

It's all personal preference. I mount mine above and as low as I can, without them being in my way. (or catch my hair on fire!) If the light source is at all behind me I get shadows, too far in front of me and I can see the tube. That hurts my eyes in a short time. I also use 2 of those drafting type lights on movable arms, for when I need to get down close. Hope that helps.

Bill Doherty

I also prefer overhead ceiling lights, but also we set up the shop with a set hanging about 2 1'2' down nearer to the full length of the work benches. Also have a magfified light attatched to a reel bench for finer work, with the light source (round fluorescent) with the magnifier and all has movable arms for exact placement. Seems one collects a 'series' of lights for either close-up or just general use work. I also was 'trained' with a career in laboratory bench work, and lighting was always a factor for performing accurate work.

Another point about ceiling height if you have any choice about it.
Higher is better obviously. The shop I am now in was built to consider this aspect for waving rods around with enough clearance, and we went with 11 ft. ceilings. The building was 'custom built', of course to accomadate raised rod racks that easily hold up to 7 1/2' rods without touching the ceileing. The longer rods are held at a floor level rack. Also consider a type of lighting to highlight the rods on the display rack if possible, something like track or spot lighting.

I digress from the lighting needs at the lathe, but some of those table lights and attatched lights to things always seem to get in the way and prefer them hanging clear out of the way. I also would have it cenetered above the lathe or other mechanical tools or wrappers.
I haven't yet used, but I like the idea of that lazer alignment tool as another 'light aid'.

Rich

Solyrich Custom Rods

I hang mine directly over my lathe. I also use it to help center my my thread crossings, you well see alight reflection on the rod so I use this reflection to find my center points
Have a HAPPY HOLIDAY
Bob

For serious work, I have always preferred TWO lights, one slightly to the right, the other slightly to the left, neither directly overhead. This gives good even lighting, without as much glare.

But I've never used the glare as a tool, either, so this may not be the best advice for you.

TH