Variables
Description
What is this formula?
Cutting Speed is the linear velocity between the cutting edge and the workpiece surface during a machining operation. It is one of the most important machining parameters because it strongly influences tool life, surface finish, productivity, and cutting forces.
When to use it
Use this formula when selecting machining parameters, calculating spindle settings, optimizing tool performance, estimating tool life, or programming CNC machines.
Example
A turning operation machines a shaft with a diameter of 80 mm at a spindle speed of 600 rev/min.
Data:
D = 80 mm
N = 600 rev/min
Formula:
Vc = (π × D × N) / 1000
Substitution:
Vc = (π × 80 × 600) / 1000
Result:
Vc = 150.80 m/min
The cutting speed is approximately 150.8 meters per minute.
Applications
Turning operations
Milling operations
Drilling operations
CNC programming
Tool selection and optimization
Note
This equation assumes a constant diameter and is widely used in machining practice. In operations where the effective cutting diameter changes continuously, such as facing operations, the actual cutting speed varies across the workpiece surface.