Milling Speed and Feed
Determine the spindle speed (RPM) and feed rate (IPM) for a milling operation, as well as the cut time for a given cut length. Milling operations remove material by feeding a workpiece into a rotating cutting tool with sharp teeth, such as an end mill or face mill. Calculations use the desired tool diameter, number of teeth, cutting speed, and cutting feed, which should be chosen based on the specific cutting conditions, including the workpiece material and tool material.
Tool diameter (in)
Number of teeth
Feed per tooth (IPT)
Number of teeth
—
Cutting feed (IPR)
Cutting speed (SFM)
× 12
Tool diameter (in)
— × π
Spindle speed
RPM
Cutting feed (IPR)
—
Spindle speed
— RPM
Feed rate
IPM
Cut length (in)
Feed rate
— IPM
Cut time (min)