Braking resistors aren't really my thing, but wh elements are inductive, meaning the DC resistance isn't what determines their actual current draw. 8 ohms is pretty low and could draw considerable current, depending on the voltage. I am making the assumption that the braking current would be DC, but I do not know that for a fact. IF you can use a standard 50 ohm resistor, you should be fine as long as you stack up enough elements to get to that resistance (or close......6X8=48). With dissipation capability of 1400 watts each, they probably would not even get warm in that scenario. I'd probably put them in a water bath anyway, if I was using the lathe hard. It would take quite a bit to heat a 5 gallon bucket of water that way.