Speeds and Feeds Chart
This speeds and feeds chart collects the core machining reference tables requested by search terms such as speeds and feeds chart, machining speeds and feeds chart, and cutting speeds and feeds chart. Use it to choose a conservative starting SFM, calculate spindle speed, and convert chip load into feed speed.
Carbide end mill speeds and feeds table
| Material | Group | SFM | 1/8" | 3/16" | 1/4" | 3/8" | 1/2" | 5/8" | 3/4" | 1" |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum 440/356/380/C61300 | Cast aluminum / aluminum bronze family | 500-1000 | 0.001 | 0.002 | 0.002 | 0.003 | 0.004 | 0.005 | 0.006 | 0.007 |
| Aluminum 2024/6061/7075 | Wrought aluminum alloys | 800-1500 | 0.001 | 0.002 | 0.002 | 0.003 | 0.004 | 0.005 | 0.006 | 0.007 |
| Yellow / high-lead / red brass | Copper alloys | 800-1500 | 0.001 | 0.001 | 0.002 | 0.0025 | 0.003 | 0.004 | 0.004 | 0.005 |
| Gray cast iron | Ductile / gray cast iron | 100-400 | 0.0005 | 0.001 | 0.002 | 0.003 | 0.004 | 0.005 | 0.006 | 0.008 |
| Low alloy steel 10XX/11XX/13XX | Carbon / low alloy steel | 100-300 | 0.0005 | 0.001 | 0.0015 | 0.002 | 0.003 | 0.004 | 0.005 | 0.006 |
| Austenitic stainless 304/316 | Stainless steel | 100-250 | 0.0001 | 0.0002 | 0.0005 | 0.001 | 0.0015 | 0.002 | 0.003 | 0.004 |
| Titanium 6Al-4V and CP Ti | Titanium alloys | 50-250 | 0.0005 | 0.0005 | 0.0005 | 0.001 | 0.001 | 0.0015 | 0.002 | 0.004 |
| Inconel / Hastelloy nickel-base | Nickel alloys | 40-60 | 0.0005 | 0.0005 | 0.001 | 0.001 | 0.002 | 0.0025 | 0.003 | 0.004 |
End mill RPM and feed calculator
How to use this chart
- Select the material row closest to your workpiece.
- Start with the low end of the SFM range for unstable setups, long tools, heavy radial engagement, or unknown hardness.
- Pick the chip load by cutter diameter and multiply by RPM and flute count.
- Reduce feed for slotting, poor chip evacuation, thin walls, chatter, or limited horsepower.
FAQ
Are these chart values final production recommendations?
No. They are starting values for planning. Use the specific cutting tool manufacturer data, workholding condition, coolant method, and machine limits before running production parts.
Why do different speed and feed charts disagree?
Charts assume different tool materials, coatings, tool life targets, rigidity, coolant, radial engagement, and material hardness. A generic chart should be adjusted to the actual tool and setup.
How do I convert SFM to RPM?
For inch units, RPM = 3.82 × SFM ÷ cutter diameter in inches. For metric units, RPM = 1000 × Vc ÷ (π × diameter in millimeters).
How do I calculate milling feed rate?
Use IPM = RPM × chip load per tooth × number of flutes. In metric, feed in mm/min = RPM × feed per tooth × number of teeth.
Data sources and limits
These charts are starting values only. Actual speeds and feeds depend on tool geometry, coating, holder rigidity, coolant, chip evacuation, radial width of cut, axial depth of cut, material hardness, and machine power.
- Sandvik Coromant: milling definitions for cutting speed, spindle speed, feed per tooth, feed per minute, MRR, cutting force, and power.
- Kennametal: RPM, IPM, chip-load, and SFM formulas.
- Harvey Tool: general carbide end mill SFM and chip-load tables.
- Norseman Drill & Tool: HSS drill speed and feed rules of thumb.
- LittleMachineShop: turning, milling, drilling, and reaming cutting speed tables.