Cutting speed (Vc) is the speed at which the cutting edge engages the workpiece, measured in meters per minute (m/min). Feed rate (F) is how fast the tool moves through the material, measured in mm per tooth (fz) or mm per revolution (fr).
The formula: Vc = π × D × N / 1000, where D = tool diameter (mm), N = spindle speed (RPM).
Material | Recommended Vc (m/min) | Recommended fz (mm/tooth)
--- | --- | ---
Aluminum 6061 | 500-800 m/min | 0.12-0.20
Mild Steel (A36) | 150-250 m/min | 0.08-0.15
Tool Steel (P20/H13) | 80-120 m/min | 0.05-0.10
Stainless Steel 304 | 80-150 m/min | 0.05-0.12
Titanium Ti-6Al-4V | 40-60 m/min | 0.03-0.08
Cast Iron | 120-200 m/min | 0.10-0.18
Note: Values are for coated carbide tools. HSS tools require 30-50% lower speeds.
Cut Type | Radial DOC (ae) | Axial DOC (ap)
--- | --- | ---
Roughing | 0.4-0.8× D | 2-5mm
Semi-finishing | 0.1-0.3× D | 0.5-1.5mm
Finishing | 0.01-0.05× D | 0.2-0.5mm
Where D = tool diameter. For aluminum, DOC can be increased by 30-50%.
1. For small Chinese CNC shops with older machines (FANUC 0i/18i controls), reduce speeds by 20% from the table values — machine rigidity is often the limiting factor
2. Most shops in Dongguan, Shenzhen, and Kunshan use carbide end mills from Zhuzhou Cemented Carbide or Xiamen Golden Egret
3. When machining 304 stainless steel, use climb milling (conventional direction causes rapid edge wear)
4. For deep cavities (>3× tool diameter), reduce feed rate by 30% and use peck cycles
5. Test one corner before full production — Chinese shops typically offer free sampling