The dead-center should be of hardened steel and shaped as shown in Fig. 277.

The central point should be removable so that it may readily be replaced if broken. The rim and

Fig. 277. Dead-center.

cup surface should be very smooth and bright. It should be forced to place at the same time the blank is forced on to the live-center, and therefore, no hammer or mallet should be used in placing the work in the lathe.