Cast iron is commonly used for machinery housings or base due to its damping characteristics. It is also known for holding its shape when it is subjected to contraction and expansion due to temperature fluctuations. Hence lathe bed is usually made up of cast iron.

Revolving Centres are Frictionless. Used for supporting heavy jobs and jobs revolving with high speeds. A high-speed steel inserted centre is supported by two bearings housed in a body. It is also called the revolving dead centre.