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Machining

Milling engagement and material removal rate

After calculating table feed, include the cut cross-section. For a straight, constant-engagement cut, use cutting depth ap and working width ae in mm.

Q = ap · ae · vf / 1000

With table feed vf in mm/min, Q is in cm³/min. The factor 1000 converts mm³ to cm³.

Original comparisonDepth × widthTable feedRemoval rate
A: baseline2 × 5 mm320 mm/min3.20 cm³/min
B: wider engagement2 × 10 mm320 mm/min6.40 cm³/min
C: deeper, narrower cut4 × 2.5 mm320 mm/min3.20 cm³/min
INTERPRETATION

Equal volume does not mean equal cutting conditions

A and C remove the same volume per minute, but distribute engagement differently. Q alone does not establish tool life, vibration or acceptable loading. These hypothetical values compare geometry; they are not machine settings.

SourcesSources: Fischer et al., Mechanical and Metal Trades Handbook, 2nd English edition, print p. 305 (engagement and data ranges); Sandvik Coromant, metric milling formulas (Q). Original comparison; no third-edition page equivalence claimed.
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