Grooving (plunge) cycle time estimates how long a peck-plunge groove takes from groove depth, plunge feed rate, number of pecks, and dwell time per peck.
How it works
Deep or narrow grooves are often plunged in pecks rather than one continuous pass to break chips and clear them from a confined cut; each peck retracts slightly before continuing, and a short dwell at the bottom of each peck helps clean up the groove wall. Total cycle time is plunge time plus the added dwell time across all pecks.
FAQ
When should I peck instead of plunging in one pass? Peck when groove depth exceeds roughly 3 to 4 times the tool width, when chip evacuation is difficult, or when you’re seeing chatter or poor finish on a single continuous plunge.
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