Lathe is a machine tool that holds the job in between the centre and base and rotates the job, and rotates the job on its own axis.

LATHE BED MATERIAL

The lathe bed is an essential component of a lathe machine. It provides a sturdy and rigid base for supporting the various parts of the lathe, including the headstock, tailstock, carriage, and tool post. The material used for the lathe bed plays a crucial role in determining the overall stability, strength, and durability of the machine.

CAST IRON
The correct answer to the question is option 'C' - Cast iron. Cast iron is the most commonly used material for lathe beds, and for good reason. Here are some reasons why cast iron is preferred for lathe beds:

1. Stability: Cast iron has excellent stability, which is crucial for the precision and accuracy of machining operations. Its high damping capacity helps to minimize vibrations, ensuring smooth and precise cutting.

2. Rigidity: Cast iron possesses high rigidity, making it ideal for withstanding heavy cutting forces without deforming. This rigidity ensures that the lathe bed remains stable even during demanding machining tasks.

3. Strength: Cast iron has good tensile strength and can withstand the stresses exerted during machining operations. Its high compressive strength allows it to handle the weight of the workpiece and the cutting forces applied by the tools.

4. Wear Resistance: Cast iron has excellent wear resistance, which is important for the longevity of the lathe bed. It can withstand the constant sliding and rubbing of the carriage and tool post without significant wear and tear.

5. Machinability: Cast iron is relatively easy to machine, allowing for the production of complex lathe bed shapes and features. This makes it a cost-effective choice for manufacturing lathe beds.

6. Ease of Maintenance: Cast iron is a durable material that requires minimal maintenance. It is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it suitable for use in various environments.

In conclusion, the lathe bed is usually made of cast iron due to its stability, rigidity, strength, wear resistance, machinability, and ease of maintenance. These properties make cast iron an ideal material for providing a solid foundation for the other components of the lathe machine.