Chip Load Calculator

Inputs

Solve for

Choose whether you know the chip load (and want the feed rate) or the feed rate (and want the chip load).

Spindle speed (n)

Spindle / cutter speed in RPM.

rpm

Number of flutes (Z)

Number of teeth (flutes) on the cutter.

flutes

Chip load (fz)

Feed per tooth (chip load). 0.0254 mm ≈ 0.001".

Default result

Feed rate(Vf)

254mm/min

Also computed

Chip load(fz)0.0254mm

Feed per tooth.

Feed per revolution(f)0.0508mm

Method notes 4 notes

Feed rate Vf = chip load × flutes × RPM = fz · Z · n. Feed per revolution = fz · Z.
Given the chip load, the table feed rate is fz · Z · n.
Chip load is per tooth (per flute), not per revolution — a 2-flute cutter feeds twice the chip load per turn.
Use the tool maker’s recommended chip load for the cutter diameter and material; thin chips work-harden, thick chips overload the edge.