

Then, in the formula section, it gives the formula for feed rate even though it had emphasized the definition of cutting feed earlier. It even emphasizes the definition we call “cutting feed” as the main definition. At the time of this writing, it gives both definitions as feed rate. That is when the concepts, the units, and the formulas all fall apart.Įven the Wikipedia page has made this mistake. That has confused a lot of readers regarding the units and the formula.Ī huge problem arises when some of these articles give the definition of cutting feed but then use the formula for feed rate. There are a lot of articles online that use the definition of IPR for feed rate. This is okay as long as you are using the correct formula. One reason for this misunderstanding is that some machinists prefer to work with cutting feed (IPR), and they call it feed rate since it functions the same. However, many confuse cutting feed with feed rate. Because you can calculate one from the other via this equation: So, the unit of cutting feed is inches per revolution (IPR) or mm/rev.įirstly, when you cut by a spinning machine (as opposed to a knife), these variables carry the same information. It is the distance the tool is advanced in one revolution – the cutting feed.

There is another variable that is very similar to feed rate. We express it in inches per minute (IPM) or millimeters per minute (mm/min). We define it as the translational speed between your tool and your surface. How fast you move your scissors is the feed rate. Think of when you run a pair of scissors through paper or fabric. Feed Rateįeed rate shows how fast (the center of ) your bit is moving through your workpiece. We define it as the number of revolutions (turns) your spindle makes in one minute (RPM). Spindle speed shows how fast your spindle turns. In doing this, we look up two other variables in available tables: cutting speed and chip load. The variables that you need to determine for your operations are your spindle speed (RPM) and feed rate (IPM). Feed Rate, Spindle Speed (RPM), Cutting Speed (Surface Speed), and Chip Load Feed Rate and Speed When There Are CNC Limitationsįirst, let’s get clear on the real meaning of feed rate, RPM, cutting speed, and chip load, and clarify the differences between these often confused terms.

#Feed and speeds for peek plastic cnc lathe how to#
How to Use the Formulas for Feed Rate and RPM.Feed Rate, Spindle Speed (RPM), Cutting Speed (Surface Speed), and Chip Load.
