Cutting around a corner pulls the tool sideways, and the machine cannot apply infinite acceleration to follow it. This estimates the maximum feed rate that keeps that cornering force within the machine limit you set.
Max feed = sqrt(acceleration x corner radius), using 1g = 386.4 in/sec^2, converted to in/min. Sharper corners and lower acceleration limits both force a slower feed.
How it works
Following a curved path at constant speed requires centripetal acceleration equal to feed squared divided by radius. Setting that equal to the machine maximum lateral acceleration and solving for feed gives the fastest speed the control can hold through the corner without losing accuracy or overshooting.
FAQ
What if the corner is perfectly sharp with no radius? Treat it as the smallest radius your control can resolve, such as a corner rounding or look-ahead tolerance value, since a true zero radius implies an instant stop.
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CNC Calculators · Cutting Time Calculator · Circular Interpolation Calculator