TOOLS/MACHINING
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Feeds & speeds

Feed Rate and Chip Load Calculator

Relate programmed table feed to the load taken by each cutting edge. Switch directions to solve for feed rate or actual chip load.

LOCAL CALC / FEED
NO DATA SENT

INPUT

Enter values

OUTPUT

READY

Enter known values and calculate.

Results stay on this device.
Shop-floor check

Use tool-maker data and account for radial chip thinning, runout, engagement, tool condition, material, and machine rigidity before applying a feed.

01 / METHOD

How to use this calculator

  1. Select units and the unknown value.
  2. Enter RPM and the number of active cutting edges.
  3. Enter chip load or feed rate and calculate.

02 / APPLICATION

Where it helps

  • Programming milling feed
  • Checking actual chip load from an existing program
  • Reviewing the effect of changing spindle speed

03 / BOUNDARIES

Assumptions and limitations

Assumes

  • All entered cutting edges share load
  • Steady-state cutting at constant RPM
  • Chip load is expressed per tooth

Does not cover

  • Runout can load one edge more heavily
  • Entry, slotting, and thin-wall cuts may need adjustment
  • Does not model chip thinning

04 / QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions

Do I count every flute?

Count the cutting edges actually doing work. Some drills and specialty cutters have geometry that changes the effective edge count.

Why can actual chip load differ?

Tool runout, radial engagement, machine acceleration, and programmed feed overrides can make the real load differ from the nominal calculation.

Does this include chip thinning?

No. The basic formula assumes nominal feed per tooth; low radial engagement and ball-nose contact may require a separate correction.