cuttingparams_skill

Overview

This skill provides quick lookup, calculation, and optimization of CNC cutting parameters for turning, milling, drilling, and threading. It supplies starting SFM/Vc ranges, RPM/feed calculations, depths of cut, MRR estimates, and tooling/coolant guidance for common materials. Results are practical starting points with adjustment and troubleshooting advice for real shop conditions.

How this skill works

Input the material, operation (milling/turning/drilling/threading), tool diameter, and desired finish or roughing mode. The skill uses standard formulas (RPM from Vc, feed from feed-per-tooth or feed-per-rev, and MRR) and material-specific Vc, feed, and DOC ranges to return recommended RPM, feed rate, DOC/Ae/Ap, and tooling/coolant suggestions. It also flags special needs (high-pressure coolant, CBN/ceramic inserts, LFV) and common fixes for poor finish, tool wear, chatter, and chip control.

When to use it

• You ask 'feeds and speeds' for a specific material and cutter size.
• You need RPM and feed-rate calculations from SFM or Vc.
• Selecting DOC, axial/radial engagement, or MRR targets for roughing/finishing.
• Choosing insert grades, coolant strategy, or LFV settings for gummy materials.
• Troubleshooting surface finish, rapid tool wear, chatter, or chip control.

Best practices

• Start with the recommended Vc/feed range and adjust ±20% based on tool life and chatter.
• Use high-pressure through-coolant for titanium, stainless, and many superalloys.
• Prefer HEM/trochoidal strategies for titanium and stainless milling to reduce tool load.
• Match insert grade and geometry to material hardness (CBN/ceramic for hardened steels).
• Measure MRR to check process productivity and iterate DOC/Ae rather than only raising speed.

Example use cases

• Calculate RPM and feed for a 12 mm endmill in 316 stainless using Vc and Fz.
• Get starting turning parameters for roughing 7075-T6 aluminium on a lathe.
• Select drilling feeds and peck strategy for deep holes in titanium or Inconel.
• Determine thread-cutting passes and infeed strategy for single-point threading in steel.
• Optimize milling for HEM in Ti-6Al-4V: Ae, Ap, Vc, and Fz recommendations.