In machining, what does "feed per tooth" refer to?

"Feed per tooth" refers specifically to the linear distance the cutter travels for each individual cutting tooth during one revolution of the tool. This measurement is crucial because it directly influences the efficiency of the machining process, affecting both surface finish and cutting forces. A proper feed per tooth helps ensure that each tooth of the cutter engages with the material effectively, promoting optimal chip removal and minimizing tool wear.

Understanding this concept is important for machinists and engineers, as it impacts the overall metal cutting strategy. If the feed per tooth is set too high, it can lead to excessive cutting forces and potential damage to the tool, while being too low may result in inefficient material removal and longer machining times. Hence, effective control of "feed per tooth" is essential for achieving desired machining outcomes.