In machining, surface speed represents the speed the cutter's outside edge travels. Use surface speed and the the cutter's size to calculate the rotation speed in revolutions per minute (RPM).
Step 1
Convert surface speed to feet per minute. To convert from meters per second, multiply by 196.85. For instance, if the surface speed is 2 m/s:
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2 * 196.85 = 393.7
Step 2
Multiply your answer by 4.
393.7 * 4 = 1,574.8
Step 3
Convert your cutter's diameter to feet. For instance, if your cutter measures 6in across:
6 / 12 = 0.5 ft
Step 4
Divide your answer from Step 2 by you cutter diameter in feet.
1,574.8 / 0.5 = 3,149.6
This is approximately 3,150 RPM.
Tip
"Surface speed" is also known as "cutting speed."
If you don't have a calculator handy, use your computer's calculator or a Google search bar.
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