Disadvantages of collets Collets are limited in the range of workpiece sizes they can accommodate and are ideally suited for repetitive jobs where the clamping requirements don't vary greatly. They are also better suited for clamping tooling with longer shanks and workpieces with consistent diameters.

Diameter range is the most notable difference between collets and chucks. Generally collets are used on smaller work pieces than typical three-jaw chucks. The general range for collets are 1/16in to 2.5in whereas chucks can be used on work pieces that are larger.

Collet chucks are best suited for smaller diameter workpieces, typically 3” or less. 3-jaw chucks are also better suited for machining longer workpieces because the longer collet chuck limits Z-axis travel.

Position Collet Chuck: Place the collet on the lathe spindle. Tighten it with the draw nut. Adjust Closer Lock Ring: Finally, adjust the closer lock ring until the collet has closed on the part and the lever cams over to secure it. Engage the key on the closer lock ring.