The cutting time for a single straight pass is just the length of the cut divided by the feed rate. Sum the passes (plus rapids and tool changes) to estimate a full cycle.
Time (min) = cut length (in) / feed (IPM)
What the variables mean
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Time | Cutting time for the pass (minutes) |
| Cut length | Total distance the tool feeds (inches) |
| Feed | Feed rate (inches per minute) |
Worked example
A 10 in pass at 30 IPM: Time = 10 / 30 = 0.33 min (20 seconds). Ten such passes take about 3.3 minutes of cutting.
Run it instantly with the Time to Machine calculator in Feeds & Speeds.