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.
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
FAQ
Does cycle time formula include tool changes and rapid moves? A basic cutting-time formula usually covers only the actual cutting pass, so real cycle time also needs rapid traverse moves, tool changes, and any dwell or inspection time added on top to match actual shop floor time.
Why is estimated cycle time often optimistic compared to actual run time? Estimates often assume ideal, uninterrupted cutting without accounting for chip evacuation pauses, probing, or minor program stops, which is why actual cycle times commonly run 10 to 30 percent longer than a simple estimate.
Run it instantly with the Time to Machine calculator in Feeds & Speeds.