Feed Rate Formula
Feed rate determines how fast material passes through the cutting tool. Correct feed rate balances cut quality, safety, and tool life.
Last updated: 2026-02-27
Feed Rate Calculator
Calculate optimal feed rates for safe and efficient cutting operations based on tool type, material, and cutting parameters.
Feed Rate Chip Load Tool Types Material Speed
Cutting Parameters
RPM
Feed Rate Results
Enter cutting parameters to calculate optimal feed rate.
Incorrect feed rates can cause burning, tool breakage, kickback, and poor cut quality. Start conservative and increase gradually while listening for smooth cutting sounds.
Feed rate = RPM * Flutes * Chip Load. Balancing these three factors produces optimal results for any material and tool combination.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1 Select Tool Type Choose from Table Saw, Router, CNC Router, Band Saw, or Jointer.
- 2 Choose Material Select the material being cut: Softwood, Hardwood, Plywood, MDF, or Plastic.
- 3 Enter Tool Specs Input cutter/blade diameter, spindle RPM, number of flutes/teeth, and depth of cut.
- 4 Review Feed Rate Get recommended feed rate in IPM, chip load analysis, and adjustment recommendations.
Pro Tip: Feed Rate = RPM * Flutes * Chip Load. Too fast = tearout, rough cuts, tool breakage. Too slow = burning, glazing, poor finish. Listen for smooth cutting sound — laboring means too fast, squealing means too slow.
Feed Rate (IPM) = RPM * Number of Flutes * Chip Load Typical Feed Rates
Reference feed rates by tool type and material. Actual rates depend on tool condition, machine rigidity, and dust collection.
| Tool Type | Hardwood | Softwood | Plywood/MDF | Plastic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Router (handheld) | 50-100 IPM | 80-150 IPM | 60-120 IPM | 40-80 IPM |
| CNC Router | 60-120 IPM | 100-200 IPM | 80-160 IPM | 50-100 IPM |
| Table Saw | Manual feed | Manual feed | Manual feed | Manual feed |
| Band Saw | Variable | Variable | Variable | Variable |
| Jointer | 20-30 ft/min | 30-40 ft/min | N/A | N/A |
Router/CNC rates are in Inches Per Minute (IPM). Table saw feed is manual (operator-controlled). Jointer rates in feet per minute.
| Material | Small Bit (1/4") | Medium Bit (1/2") | Large Bit (3/4"+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Softwood | 0.004-0.006" | 0.006-0.010" | 0.008-0.015" |
| Hardwood | 0.003-0.005" | 0.004-0.008" | 0.006-0.012" |
| Plywood | 0.004-0.006" | 0.005-0.009" | 0.007-0.013" |
| MDF | 0.005-0.008" | 0.007-0.012" | 0.010-0.016" |
| Plastic | 0.003-0.004" | 0.004-0.006" | 0.005-0.008" |
Chip load = material removed per tooth per revolution. Larger bits can handle larger chip loads.
Factors & Optimization
Key Factors Affecting Feed Rate
Signs of Incorrect Feed Rate
- Too fast: Burning marks, rough cuts, tool breakage, motor strain
- Too slow: Burning, glazing (shiny surface), poor finish, heat buildup
- Sound test: Smooth, consistent = correct. Laboring/stalls = too fast. High-pitched squeal = too slow
- Smoke or smell: Reduce feed rate and/or depth of cut immediately
Optimization Tips
- Start conservative, increase gradually until optimal sound/finish
- Use sharp tools — dull cutters need slower feed and produce heat
- Multiple shallow passes better than one deep cut
- Adjust for grain direction — across grain may need slower feed
- Consider machine rigidity — lighter machines need slower feeds
- Depth matters: Deeper cuts = slower feed rate (reduce 25% for deep cuts)
Glossary of Terms
Inches Per Minute — how fast the workpiece or tool moves through the cut. Must balance with RPM and chip load for optimal results.
The thickness of material removed by each cutting edge per revolution. Too small = rubbing/burning. Too large = tearout and tool stress. Varies by material and bit size.
A cutting edge on a router bit or end mill. More flutes = smoother finish but slower chip evacuation. 2 flutes standard for wood.
Revolutions Per Minute — spindle or blade rotation speed. Combined with flutes and chip load, determines feed rate.
How deep the tool cuts into the material per pass. Deeper cuts require slower feed rates. Rule: never exceed 50% of bit diameter.
Dangerous condition where the workpiece is thrown back toward the operator. Often caused by incorrect feed rate, binding, or dull tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate the correct feed rate?
Feed Rate (IPM) = RPM * Number of Flutes * Chip Load. For example: 18,000 RPM * 2 flutes * 0.005" chip load = 180 IPM. Start 20% below calculated rate and increase until cut quality is optimal.
What's the difference between feed rate for routers and table saws?
Routers and CNC machines have calculated feed rates (IPM). Table saws rely on manual feed — the operator controls speed by feel. For table saws, listen for smooth cutting and avoid pushing too fast (straining motor) or too slow (burning).
How does material hardness affect feed rate?
Harder materials require slower feed rates: Softwoods allow 80-150 IPM for routers. Hardwoods: 50-100 IPM. Exotic hardwoods: 30-60 IPM. MDF is uniform and allows faster rates despite being dense.
What happens if I feed too fast?
Too fast feed causes rough cuts, tearout (especially across grain), motor strain/stalling, increased kickback risk, and potential tool breakage. Reduce feed rate and/or depth of cut.
Why does my wood burn even at slow feed rates?
Burning at slow feed rates means the tool is rubbing rather than cutting. Causes: dull blade/bit, too many teeth for material, or feed rate is TOO slow (friction heating). Solution: sharpen or replace tool, increase feed rate slightly, or reduce RPM.
How does depth of cut affect feed rate?
Deeper cuts increase tool load and require slower feed rates. Rule of thumb: Reduce feed rate 25% for each 1/4" increase in depth beyond the first 1/4". Multiple shallow passes at higher feed rate often produces better results than one deep pass.