CNC Chip Load Calculator
Calculate table feed rate from chip load per tooth, flute count, and spindle RPM — or back-calculate chip load from a known feed rate.
Enter your values
Choose mode, then fill in the fields below.
How this calculator works
Table feed rate is built up from chip load, flute count, and spindle speed:
fz is chip load per tooth (feed per tooth) in mm, Z is the number of flutes on the cutter, and N is spindle speed in RPM. Fr comes out in mm/min. Rearranged to check chip load from a known or programmed feed rate:
Typical chip load ranges (mm/tooth, general carbide end mill)
| Material | Typical fz (mm) |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | 0.05 – 0.15 |
| Mild steel | 0.04 – 0.10 |
| Stainless steel | 0.03 – 0.08 |
Chip load scales with tool diameter and depends heavily on the specific tool geometry and coating — always start from the tool manufacturer's published recommendation for your exact cutter.
Frequently asked questions
Does this account for radial/axial depth of cut?
No — this is the basic feed-rate relationship. Chip thinning at low radial engagement (common in high-speed machining) means the effective chip load can be lower than programmed fz, requiring a compensating increase in feed rate.
Is this the same as the cutting speed calculator?
No — cutting speed (Vc) sets the spindle RPM from surface speed. This calculator sets the feed rate (table speed) once RPM is already known, based on chip load and flute count.