Cutting Tools and Tooling Flashcards
6 cards from real CNC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Cutting Tools and Tooling flashcards as text
What does SFM stand for in CNC cutting tool calculations?
Answer: Surface Feet per Minute
SFM stands for Surface Feet per Minute, a measure of the cutting speed at the tool's cutting edge relative to the workpiece.
Using the formula RPM = (SFM × 3.82) / Diameter, what RPM is needed for a 0.5-inch end mill at 600 SFM?
Answer: 4,584 RPM
RPM = (600 × 3.82) / 0.5 = 2,292 / 0.5 = 4,584 RPM, which is the required spindle speed for this tool and cutting speed.
What is the chip load (feed per tooth) for a 4-flute end mill running at 3,000 RPM with a feed rate of 60 IPM?
Answer: 0.005 inches
Chip load = Feed Rate / (RPM × Number of Flutes) = 60 / (3,000 × 4) = 60 / 12,000 = 0.005 inches per tooth.
What is the primary function of a drill's point angle?
Answer: To affect how the drill starts and centers itself
The drill point angle affects how the drill centers itself on entry and how aggressively it cuts — 118° is standard for general use, 135° for harder materials.
Which tool type is specifically designed to enlarge and improve the surface finish of an existing hole?
Answer: Reamer
A reamer is designed to slightly enlarge a pre-drilled hole while producing a very precise diameter and superior surface finish.
What does the term 'runout' refer to when measuring a cutting tool in a holder?
Answer: The deviation of the tool tip from true rotation center
Runout is the amount of eccentricity (wobble) of the tool tip as it rotates, measured by a dial indicator — excessive runout reduces tool life and part accuracy.