Grooving Tools Technical Support
Speed and Feed Chart
| Material | HB/Rc | SFM: Uncoated | SFM: AlTiN+ | Tool Diameter .060-.080 | Tool Diameter .090-.120 | Tool Diameter .087 | Tool Diameter .250-.312 | Tool Diameter .375+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Iron | 160 HB | 75-200 | 200-550 | 0.0010 Max FPR | 0.0012 Max FPR | 0.0017 Max FPR | 0.0031 Max FPR | 0.0044 Max FPR |
| Cabon Steel | 18 Rc | 75-200 | 200-450 | 0.0007 Max FPR | 0.0008 Max FPR | 0.0011 Max FPR | 0.0022 Max FPR | 0.0030 Max FPR |
| Alloy Steel | 20 Rc | 75-200 | 200-425 | 0.0006 Max FPR | 0.0007 Max FPR | 0.0010 Max FPR | 0.0019 Max FPR | 0.0026 Max FPR |
| Tool Steel | 25 Rc | 75-175 | 175-300 | 0.0005 Max FPR | 0.0006 Max FPR | 0.0008 Max FPR | 0.0015 Max FPR | 0.0022 Max FPR |
| 300 Stainless Steel | 150 HB | 75-175 | 75-350 | 0.0006 Max FPR | 0.0007 Max FPR | 0.0010 Max FPR | 0.0019 Max FPR | 0.0026 Max FPR |
| 400 Stainless Steel | 195 HB | 75-210 | 130-420 | 0.0005 Max FPR | 0.0006 Max FPR | 0.0008 Max FPR | 0.0016 Max FPR | 0.0023 Max FPR |
| High Temp Alloy (Ni & Co Base) | 20 Rc | 50-130 | 130-300 | 0.0004 Max FPR | 0.0005 Max FPR | 0.0007 Max FPR | 0.0013 Max FPR | 0.0017 Max FPR |
| Titanium | 25 Rc | 50-120 | 120-275 | 0.0005 Max FPR | 0.0006 Max FPR | 0.0008 Max FPR | 0.0016 Max FPR | 0.0022 Max FPR |
| Heat Treated Alloys (38-45 Rc) | 40 Rc | 50-100 | 100-200 | 0.0004 Max FPR | 0.0004 Max FPR | 0.0006 Max FPR | 0.0011 Max FPR | 0.0016 Max FPR |
| Aluminum | 100 HB | 75-250 | 250-750 | 0.0022 Max FPR | 0.0026 Max FPR | 0.0037 Max FPR | 0.0065 Max FPR | 0.0085 Max FPR |
| Brass, Zinc | 80 HB | 250-300 | 250-650 | 0.0018 Max FPR | 0.0021 Max FPR | 0.0030 Max FPR | 0.0053 Max FPR | 0.0079 Max FPR |
SFM = Surface Feet per Minute FPR = Feed per Revolution
These parameters serve as initial guidelines; actual performance may vary based on factors such as
length-to-diameter ratios, setup configurations, and machine rigidity.
Grooving Tool Troubleshooting
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Flank Wear | Cutting Conditions | Check for excessive speed. See above chart for recommendations. |
| Tool | Select a coated tool. | |
| Part | Make sure prior operation did not work harden the metal. | |
| Built-up Edge | Tool | Select a coated tool. |
| Cutting Force | Check for excessive speed rate (IPR). See above chart for recommendations. | |
| Heat | Use an SCT coolant holder. If coolant is not available, use shop air and a coated tool. | |
| Chatter | Cutting Conditions | Reduce RPM and increase feed rate within the feed and speed chart parameters. |
| Clamping | Clamping length should be a minimum of three times the shank diameter in the tool holder. Check tool holding rigidity. | |
| Tool | Hone cutting edge. A light hone (0.0001-0.0003 inch) will help keep force constant. | |
| Tool Breakage | Cutting Conditions | Check for excessive feed rate (IPR). See above chart for recommendations. |
| Chip Packing | Stagger - peck grooving. |