Skip to main content
Back to Resources
SFM Reference

Surface Feet per Minute Chart

Use SFM as the surface-speed starting point before calculating RPM from cutter or workpiece diameter.

Direct answer: surface feet per minute is the cutter-edge speed. Choose an SFM range from the material chart, then convert it to RPM with RPM = (SFM x 3.82) / diameter.

Starting SFM Chart

MaterialHSS StartCarbide StartValidation Note
Aluminum 6061/7075600 - 1,200 SFM1,500 - 4,000 SFMWatch chip welding and use polished geometry.
Low-carbon steel80 - 160 SFM400 - 900 SFMAdjust downward for poor rigidity or interrupted cuts.
Alloy steel 414060 - 130 SFM250 - 600 SFMHardness and coating drive the final window.
Stainless 304/31650 - 100 SFM180 - 450 SFMKeep feed positive to avoid work hardening.
Titanium Ti-6Al-4V30 - 70 SFM120 - 250 SFMPrioritize coolant, tool engagement, and heat control.
Cast iron80 - 180 SFM400 - 900 SFMAbrasiveness and dust control matter more than coolant.

How to Use the Chart

  1. Pick the material family and tool type.
  2. Start near the conservative side if rigidity, coolant, or chip evacuation is uncertain.
  3. Convert SFM into RPM by diameter.
  4. Validate chip shape, tool wear, finish, and spindle load before production release.

Conversion Handoff

Use this table for SFM range selection, then use the SFM to RPM guide or RPM calculator to convert by diameter.