Speeds and Feeds

Running the correct PROMAX solid carbide end mills at the proper speeds and feeds is critical to obtaining the best production times and tool life. The results from the information and formulas below will give a good starting point in running your finishing end mills and your roughing end mills. These formulas and tool suggestions provide useful guidelines for your specific job. Please note that whether you are using roughing end mills or finishing end mills these numbers are starting points and may need adjusting as you fine tune your machining process.

The PROMAX Technical Department is here for you if you find that you need assistance in choosing the correct solid carbide end mills for your particular job. Likewise, we are here to assist you in determining the correct feeds and speeds starting points based on roughing end mills or finishing end mills you are using.

Please contact our very knowledgeable Technical Department at 800-878-0502. We are here for you.

See below for Roughing Information. Click here for Finishing Information.

Recommended Feeds & Speeds & Tool Selection Guidelines

For Roughing Applications Using PROMAX Tools

Roughing Application Formulas:
Speeds and Feeds to be considered as a starting point. Values calculated at:
Axial Cut (depth) = Diameter x 1.0
Radial Cut (width) = Diameter x .5 to Diameter x 1.0 (Full Slot)

Formulas:
Spindle Speed (RPM) = (3.82 x SFM) / Diameter
Feed (Inches Per Minute) = FPT (Feed per Tooth) x RPM x Number of Flutes

Example: For starting speed using a ½” 4 flute end mill cutting Titanium at a hardness
of around 275 BHN, find SFM on above chart (SFM=160) and calculate RPM using formula as follows:
RPM = 3.82 x 160 (SFM) / .5 (DIA) = 1222 RPM.

For starting feed: .002 (FPT) x 1222 (RPM) x 4 (Flutes) = 9-3/4 IPM.

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Recommended Feeds & Speeds & Tool Selection Guidelines

For Finishing Applications
Calculated with Chip Thinning @ .030 Radial Depth of Cut Finish Pass