Chip Load Calculator
Solve chip load per tooth from your feed rate, spindle speed and number of flutes. Chip load is the thickness of material each cutting edge removes per revolution.
Chip load calculator
Chip load per tooth
- in/tooth
Chip load = feed rate / (RPM x number of flutes)
Editorial estimate only
These are conservative starting points, not a guarantee. Verify against manufacturer tooling data and your machine manual. Confirm spindle power, workholding and coolant before cutting.
Why chip load matters
Chip load controls tool life and finish. Too low and the cutter rubs and dulls fast. Too high and you risk chipping or breaking the cutter. Use the material reference ranges as a starting point and reduce chip load for small or fragile tools.