Cutting time estimates how long a straight milling pass takes from cut length, feed rate, and number of passes.
Estimate machining time for a single feature or pass from cut length, feed rate, and number of passes.
Formula: Time = (Cut Length times Number of Passes) divided by Feed Rate.
How it works
This is the basic time-in-cut estimate. It does not include rapids, tool changes, or dwell, just the time the tool is actually feeding through material across all passes.
FAQ
Does this include rapid moves between passes? No, this is cutting time only. Add rapid/positioning time separately for a full cycle time estimate.
Related Guides
CNC Calculators · Cycle Time Calculator · Feed Rate Calculator
How it works
This is the core building block for estimating total machining time on a job; multiply a single pass’s time by the number of identical passes, such as roughing followed by finishing, to get total time for that feature. It doesn’t include rapid moves between cuts, tool changes, or approach and retract distances, so actual cycle time will run somewhat longer.
FAQ
Should I include approach and retract distance in cut length? For a more accurate estimate, yes. Add any lead-in, lead-out, or air-cutting distance your toolpath includes to the true feature length before calculating.
Related Guides
CNC Calculators · Material Removal Rate Calculator · Feed Rate Calculator