Feed Rate Calculator Lathe

Lathe Feed Rate Calculator

Understanding Lathe Feed Rate

The feed rate on a lathe is a critical parameter that dictates how quickly the cutting tool advances along the workpiece. It is typically expressed in millimeters per revolution (mm/rev) or inches per revolution (inch/rev) for turning operations. For milling, it's often expressed in mm/minute or inch/minute. This calculator focuses on the common lathe scenario where feed is defined per revolution of the workpiece.

The feed rate significantly impacts several aspects of the machining process:

  • Surface Finish: A slower feed rate generally results in a smoother surface finish, while a faster feed rate can lead to a rougher finish or tool chatter.
  • Tool Life: The rate at which the tool engages the material influences the heat generated and the cutting forces, directly affecting how long the cutting tool will last.
  • Material Removal Rate (MRR): A higher feed rate, combined with appropriate depth of cut and spindle speed, increases the volume of material removed per unit of time, leading to faster production.
  • Machining Stability: An inappropriate feed rate can cause vibrations, chatter, and even lead to tool breakage or workpiece damage.

How the Calculation Works:

This calculator helps determine the Feed Rate (mm/min or inch/min) based on the Spindle Speed (RPM) and the desired Feed Per Revolution. The formula is straightforward:

Feed Rate = Spindle Speed (RPM) × Feed Per Revolution

If you are working with milling cutters on a lathe attachment (like a dividing head), and you know the desired feed per tooth, you would first calculate the feed per revolution:

Feed Per Revolution = Number of Teeth × Feed Per Tooth (This calculator asks for Feed Per Revolution directly for simplicity in the lathe context.)

By inputting your known values for spindle speed and feed per revolution, you can quickly calculate the resulting linear feed rate in millimeters or inches per minute. Always consult your machine's manual and material specifications for recommended starting feed rates.

function calculateFeedRate() { var spindleSpeed = parseFloat(document.getElementById("spindleSpeed").value); var feedPerRevolution = parseFloat(document.getElementById("feedPerRevolution").value); var numberOfTeeth = parseFloat(document.getElementById("numberOfTeeth").value); // Included for context, not used in main formula here var resultDiv = document.getElementById("result"); resultDiv.innerHTML = ""; // Clear previous results if (isNaN(spindleSpeed) || isNaN(feedPerRevolution)) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter valid numbers for Spindle Speed and Feed Per Revolution."; return; } if (spindleSpeed <= 0 || feedPerRevolution <= 0) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Spindle Speed and Feed Per Revolution must be positive values."; return; } var feedRate = spindleSpeed * feedPerRevolution; resultDiv.innerHTML = "

Result:

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