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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
  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.