What is a worktable primarily used for in machining?

The worktable in machining serves a crucial role by providing support for the workpiece along with any necessary workholding devices. This support is essential because it ensures stability and precision during the machining process. A well-supported workpiece allows for accurate cutting and shaping, which is vital for producing high-quality parts.

Maintaining a solid and stable positioning of the workpiece helps to reduce vibrations and movements that can negatively impact the machining operation. This close contact with the worktable ensures that the tools can cut through the material effectively and with the desired tolerances.

Other options, while related to machining, do not accurately describe the primary function of a worktable. For instance, while tools and accessories may indeed rest on the worktable at times, this is not its principal purpose. Similarly, adjusting cutting speed relates more to the machine's controls than to the worktable itself, and storing spare parts is irrelevant to the worktable's function during active machining processes. Thus, the worktable's role in supporting the workpiece is fundamental to successful machining operations.